Becoming Mum

Remembering Elke Pixie with Emma Bowes Sep 30, 2020

** Trigger Warning, Stillbirth, Baby Loss**October is Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month and today’s guest is going to share a story with us all that will undoubtedly have you reaching for the tissues and holding your babies tighter that normal. This was one of the hardest interviews I have done but it is such an important topic because it is very likely that you or someone you know will have been affected by it. Unfortunately stillbirth isn’t rare, the statistics in Australia alone are 1 in 120. In November last year, the unthinkable happened to Emma Bowes – her fourth pregnancy, a healthy pregnancy, resulted in her baby girl Elke pixie being stillborn at 36 weeks – with no explanation. Elke's story aims to give people a better understanding of how to support their friends who have experienced baby loss and how important it is to monitor the movements of our little babes-in-womb.As mentioned in the episode, in-lieu of receiving presents for her upcoming 40th birthday, Emma has decided to raise funds for Still Aware and you can contribute here.
You can read more about Elke's story and Emma's beautiful writing over on her Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/honestly.emma/
Here are a list of resources mentioned in the episode:stillaware.org stillbirthfoundation.org.au www.sands.org.au www.rednose.org.au

How feminine and masculine energies are playing out in your life with Alanna Jane Sep 25, 2020

Feminine energy doesn't just belong to women and masculine energies don't just belong to men. Tune in this week to understand the important balance between the two and how they may be playing out in your own life. This one's not just for the mamas!
Find out more about Alanna here: https://www.instagram.com/iam.alannajane/

Protecting your child online and the reality of child exploitation with Adam Whittington Aug 16, 2020

This episode contains dialogue around child sexual abuse, which may be triggering for some.
I get that most of you listening to this podcast come here for pre and postnatal advice and while I strive to cover a wide range of topics on the show, I’ve never spoken about anything as dark or as serious as this. But this is not something we can stick our heads in the sand over and we can start by having conversations in our own homes and with the children in our lives. The internet has it’s pros – we all know that – but along with our tech advancements come the cons. And the cons we are going to cover today are things that every parent needs to confront, it’s inevitable with the way technology is moving. Today’s guest is Adam Whittington, the founder of non profit organization PRC - Project Rescue Children, which exists to abolish child trafficking, exploitation, slavery & child sexual abuse. It’s heavy I know. But it’s a conversation we all need to start having. Because it’s happening, everywhere and sometimes right under our noses. And the link between your child’s internet habits and this horrific crime will shock you.
Support PRC here: https://www.projectrescuechildren.org/Follow PRC on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/projectrescuechildren/And on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/ProjectRescueChildren/

Rewriting the 'I'm not good enough' story with Dr Libby Quinn Jul 01, 2020

Making a return to the podcast this week is the principal psychologist of the Women's Psychology Clinic, Dr Libby Quinn. With extensive training and clinical practice, Dr Libby is hands down the best therapist I have ever seen (and why I continue to see her regularly) She just gets us ladies! Dr Libby is across all the evidence based tools used to enhance our psychological wellbeing and today we get into understanding how our core beliefs can run our worlds (and what we can do to stop that from happening!) and the process involved in rewriting the 'I'm not good enough' story. After this chat you'll learn that it is just a story - and all stories can be rewritten!
Listen to her previous interview here: https://apple.co/3gggYWw
Follow Dr Libby on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenspsychologist/

Hormone imbalances, endometriosis and the importance of finding the root cause with Dr Nat Kringoudis Jun 19, 2020

Returning to the podcast this week is Dr Nat Kringoudis, doctor of Chinese medicine, Acupuncturist, Author, Speaker, co-host of the Period Party podcast and the Wellness Collective podcast, put simply - an all-round natural fertility expert! This episode is a recording taken from my Becoming Mum Live Virtual Event series and in today's episode we chat about:

understanding our unique hormonal imbalances,
endometriosis + painful periods, and
why it's so important to get to the root cause of these conditions.

Follow Nat on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/natkringoudis/

Solo mama life, dating again and speaking your truth with Leila Stead May 25, 2020

Solo mama to her little girl, Leila Stead, a talented writer and photographer, is the incredible woman behind the blog Ever the Daring and podcast We are the Daring. She’s passionate, authentic, brave, vulnerable and she’s not afraid to talk about controversial topics. Today we dive into life as a solo mama, how it happened, how she moved through it, starting to date again, parenting, the lessons she’s learned along the way, how important it is to take care of you first and standing in your truth and speaking it (even if it makes people uncomfortable), dealing with online trolls and the process of caring for her terminally ill mama. This is one jam packed episode!
Follow Leila on Instagram here Check out her photography here Listen to her podcast here

Why mothers will not continue to do everything all of the time with Amy Taylor-Kabbaz May 05, 2020

Today's episode is brought to you by Amy's newest online offering, Returning Home, a 6-month membership for mamas to support them as they find their 'new normal'. *CLOSES SUN MAY 10*
Our global situation has forced a change in so many of our lives. On top of the everyday mum duties, mothers the world over are trying to simultaneously educate their children, run their own businesses, work from home and keep everyone fed, clean and clothed. For some it has been a wonderful opportunity to slow down, however for others, the pressure dial has just been turned up a whole lot more. According to Amy Taylor-Kabbaz, a former journalist and matrescence activist, a spotlight has been shone on motherhood like never before, and two things have become very clear: We will not continue to accept we have to do everything all of the time, and together, we can honour motherhood differently.
Find out more about the program here
Listen to the previous interview with Amy here

Meltdowns and Tantrums, what's really going on? with Katie Crosby Apr 25, 2020

How do you feel when your little one has a meltdown, or when you get triggered by their behaviour and you snap? I’ve been there and to be honest it feels awful and I’ve often wondered why I am so quick to be triggered. Today’s guest, Katie Crosby, a paediatric occupational therapist, is an expert in the emotions and behaviours of kids (and inner kids) In this episode, Katie shares with us some incredible information on understanding what it is ourselves AND our kids need in a “meltdown” moment and additionally, how our experience as children will determine how we typically react in those moments. Parenting it seems, is about what we need AND what our children need and I absolutely loved this perspective with Katie and hope you do too.
Find out more about Katie here:https://www.thrivinglittles.com/Her courses here:https://thriving-littles.mykajabi.com/meltdownscourseFollow on Instagram here:https://www.instagram.com/thrivinglittles/On Facebook here:https://www.facebook.com/thrivinglittles/

The organisational Queen on life's biggest lessons with Steph Pase Apr 13, 2020

If you’re anything like me and probably a million other women, chaos and mess makes you feel anxious and overwhelmed, and today’s guest sums it up perfectly - "it’s not about having the perfect pantry or having the cleanest house it’s about feeling in control and not being a slave to your home and your life". Steph Pase (aka @justanothermummyblog) is an Aussie mum of two beautiful girls and the creative and organised genius behind Steph Pase planners, but today we move beyond schedules and to-do lists and dive deep into where life schooled her with some big lessons including growing up with a non-verbal sibling, a 25kg weight loss journey and how it took becoming a mum to break the damaging relationship she had with food and her body.
Find out more about Steph here: https://justanothermummyblog.com/
Purchase her products here: https://www.stephpaseplanners.com.au/
Follow Steph on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/justanothermummyblog/
Watch Steph on YouTube here: https://bit.ly/3eqWWIO

Managing Anxiety with Nicola Laye Mar 27, 2020

Nicola Laye has helped thousands of women with her background in Palliative care, Pilates teaching and more recently in her role as breath workshop facilitator and pregnancy coach. In today's episode we dive into how the breath can help us out of anxiety not only in pregnancy but in everyday life.
You can find out more about Nicola here: https://www.nicolalaye.com/
Follow Nicola on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/nicola_laye/
Listen to her Meditation track here: https://www.nicolalaye.com/meditation-track

#mumtiptuesday Finding calm amidst Coronavirus with Nicole King Mar 17, 2020

I have heard from so many mothers who are experiencing anxiety, fear and overwhelm with what is happening in the world right now due to Coronavirus. So I decided to sit down with meditation teacher and founder of the Momi Method, Nicole King to get some great practical advice on how to deal with these feelings, not only for ourselves but to model for our children as well.
We go through simple breathing techniques for you and your family as well as activities you can do with your children should you be in a quarantine situation.
You can find out more about Nicole here: https://nicolekingwellbeing.com/Follow Nicole on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/nicolekingwellbeing/

Birth is not the finish line, why mums need more support with Dr Oscar Serrallach Mar 12, 2020

If you’re a mum, fatigue, loss of libido, brain fog (mumbrain), thinning hair, sagging skin and softer nails are all things we just accept as common and normal after giving birth. However, common doesn’t necessarily mean normal and our next guest chats to us about his work in identifying a syndrome all mothers experience to some degree, called Postnatal Depletion. I first heard of Dr Oscar Serrallach when I was pregnant, he has written a book called The Postnatal Depletion Cure which I started to skim through when I was pregnant, however I didn’t really start to look at it properly until a few months postpartum. (If I could go back to when I was pregnant I would have read his book from cover to cover twice – just to make sure I didn’t miss anything!) We put so much emphasis on the birth and the baby, and like he says in the interview, birth is not the finish line. His article on Gwyneth Paltrow’s website GOOP received world wide attention and in addition to practicing integrative medicine at The Health Lodge in Byron Bay, Dr Oscar has grown a real presence of social media and is a big advocate for restoring mother-centred care in our communities. Mamas you are going to love this episode.
Find out more about Dr Oscar here: http://oscarserrallach.com/Follow Dr Oscar on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/droscarserrallach/

#mumtiptuesday 5 items that made my life easier Mar 10, 2020

So there's actually 7 items that I talk about, but 5 items sounded so much better!
#1 The Mumsie Genius creation by Sunshine Coast mama Janneke. Overalls that carry your baby!
#2 Mummy Backpack - Goodbye handbag... There are so many of these available, just make sure you get one with bottle compartments and lots of pockets!
#3 Formula Dispenser - I can't believe it took me months to know these existed. Again so many available, choose one that suits!
#4 Sophie the GiraffeEntertaining and incredible for teething!
#5 Terry Towelling Nappies - I have these all over the house to wipe up all sorts of spills. Great burp cloths too for when they are little.
#6 Overhead bibs - For when your sassy 8 month old thinks she can take them off!
#7 Hard Books - For when your baby thinks they can turn the pages of a regular book, but just end up scrunching them up! Where is the Green Sheep? It's Time to Sleep my Love are two of our faves

Why isn't my baby sleeping? with Tara Mitchell Mar 03, 2020

This week I chat to Tara Mitchell, otherwise known as The Gentle Sleep Specialist. She is a Paediatric nurse and infant & toddler sleep consultant with over 200 5-star reviews for her work. Tara has worked with over 1000 clients and is a trusted referral source for Paediatricians, Midwives, Child Health Nurses, Pharmacists, Psychologists, Teachers and many more. Today we bust the myth that being a parent inherently means you say goodbye to good sleep and that babies are just ‘bad at sleeping’.
We talk about why sleep is so important for our kids physically, emotionally and psychologically and how a lack of sleep may not only impacts their health, but the health of their families as well. We discuss why families should absolutely seek help if they need it as well as the below common challenges:
+ how can I prevent my baby being overtired?+ transitioning to their own cot/room+ how reflux affects sleep+ sleep and feeding and why breastfeeding mums can have babies that sleep through the night+ what to do about early rising
You can find out more about Tara and her work here: https://gentlesleep.com.au/
Follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thegentlesleepspecialist/

Breastfeeding challenges, what new mamas need to know with Susie Prout Feb 27, 2020

Susie Prout supports mamas to not only survive breastfeeding but to thrive while doing do. She is a Registered Midwife and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant originally from Perth, currently based in Indonesia with her husband and three young children. Today we are going to talk about the common challenges she sees including the top up trap, biting while feeding and over supply as well as tongue ties, breastfeeding in public and why breastfeeding isn’t worth it for every mama.
Find out more about Susie here: https://www.susieproutlactation.com/about-meFollow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/susieproutlactation/Listen to her podcast The Australian Breastfeeding Podcast here: https://www.susieproutlactation.com/podcast

#mumtiptuesday Essential oils for babies Feb 25, 2020

How to use essential oils for babies is one of the most commonly searched for terms and the type of questions I receive the most. I have been using doTERRA essential oils on Lucia who is 8 months old now, since she was about 5 weeks old.I use Frankincense, Copaiba, Magnolia, Lavender, Roman Chamomile, On Guard (sparingly) and DigestZen. Listen to this episode to hear exactly how I do that!

Why 2020 needs to be #theyearofthemother with Diana Spalding Feb 20, 2020

Diana is a mother of 3, a midwife, a paediatric nurse, founder of Gathered Birth and the digital education editor over at Motherly – an uplifting online community full of expert tricks-of-the-trade and inspiring stories. She is also the author of soon to be released The Motherly Guide to Becoming Mama, and today we dive into why token self care is not enough for the burn out mums are facing, how we collectively need to honour matrescence and the transition into motherhood, and what you can do to make 2020 the #yearofthemother
www.gatheredbirth.com
www.mother.ly
Follow Motherly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mother.ly/
Make 2020 #theyearofthemother: https://www.mother.ly/st/year-of-the-mother
Pre-order Diana's book here The Motherly Guide to Becoming Mama

Healing birth trauma and empowering our daughters with Angela Fitzgerald Feb 13, 2020

Angela Fitzgerald is a birth healing coach, midwife and mother. She helps women heal from birth and prepare for their next births through her unique personal coaching programmes. Angela believes that we can heal from birth no matter how long ago it was, and when we heal from our experience of childbirth we have the power to heal so much more. Today we dive into really owning our feminine power, which starts long before we have a baby and how tuning into the natural ebbs and flows of our planet we can cultivate a relationship with ourselves that can serve us right through motherhood and beyond (hint hint – our periods are not something to be ashamed of and inconvenienced by!) Seriously, if you’re a woman anywhere – this is a must listen!
Find out more about Angela and her coaching programmes here: https://www.birthyourtruth.com/
Women with Wings: https://sacredwisewoman.com.au/women-with-wings/

#mumtiptuesday Dear Mama, this one's for you Feb 11, 2020

Dear mama,
I see you, doing the best you can.Showing up every single day,even when you don't feel like it.
I want you to know you are a rockstar
CONT . . .

It takes two to tango, why sperm health matters with Sarah Heywood Feb 06, 2020

In today's episode we dive into what sperm health has dropped 50% over the last four decades and how we can take matters into our own hands when it comes to male infertility. Sarah Heywood is the Founder of The Journey, a new digital media platform dedicated to providing people with evidence based, easy-to-understand information on fertility, conception, pregnancy and the early years.We chat about how hormones affect sperm health, the role Vitamin D plays in fertility, why men- to a degree, also have a 'biological clock', why recurrent miscarriages can also be due to sperm DNA fragmentation and not just because of an issue with the woman and so much more!

#mumtiptuesday Meal planning, slow cookers and easy snacks Feb 04, 2020

In this week's edition of #mumtiptuesday learn why it's a must to meal plan for a stress-free kitchen, how to share the load, why slow cookers are life and easy snacks for new mums!

#mumtiptuesday What to pack in your hospital bag Jan 28, 2020

Keep it simple. Take more nappies and maternity pads than you will think you need and less outfits for you! Visit the episode webpage for my reccomendations.

My experience with Post-natal Anxiety and Depression Jan 27, 2020

This is my first episode back from a long break, an almost 2 month social media detox. A lot has happened and this is the story of my experience with post-natal anxiety and depression. See below for all things mentioned that might help you in your journey.
Mental Health Checklist for Mums: http://bit.ly/2Gd8CyQ
Dr Libby Quinn: https://thewomenspsychologyclinic.com/home-2
The Medical Sanctuary: http://bit.ly/2RKEX5g
Mood-lifting Essential Oil Blend: Frankincense, Bergamot, Wild Orange, Lime + Ylang Ylang. Although I didn't really measure you could try the following in a 15ml bottle topped up with carrier oil of your choice:Frankincense - 5 | Bergamot - 5 | Wild Orange - 5 | Lime - 3 | Ylang Ylang - 3
The Pink Flamingo - highly recommend to get your mojo back and have an awesome dance session: https://www.pinkflamingogoldcoast.com/

Healing from miscarriage, pregnancy loss, stillbirth and sexual trauma with Pammy Foster Nov 18, 2019

TRIGGER WARNING: Suicide and StillbirthPammy Foster is the woman behind Womb Whispers - a sacred place held for women to heal from trauma, whilst honouring their journey and finding hope for the future. In her own words, Pammy has been walking a journey of grief and pain for almost 30 years.From losing her father in her childhood years to enduring multiple acts of sexual violence and most recently experiencing miscarriage and giving birth to her stillborn daughter. This incredible and heart breaking story has led Pammy to be where she is today - a mother, trauma recovery coach and end of life celebrant creating a community of hope for women healing from miscarriage, pregnancy loss, stillbirth and sexual trauma. In this vulnerable conversation, we learn about her story and how she has come through the otherside and she delicately shares some words of wisdom for people who might be going through similar experiences. We do touch on some very sensitive subjects, so if you are not in the right head space to be listening to this, please skip this episode.If you are in need please call Life Life on 13 11 14
You can find out more about Pammy hereFollow Womb Whispers here

A dietitian's approach to a healthy and happy mama and baby with Heidi Sze Nov 17, 2019

Heidi Sze is a mother of two, cook, dietitian and writer from the Mornington Peninsula in Australia. Her blog, Apples Under My Bed is her online journal where she writes about food and all things motherhood, and she has just recently released her book Nurturing your New Life which we talk about today. Heidi is a non-diet dietitian, and doesn’t prescribe meal plans or encourage unnecessary food restriction. Her goal is a happy and healthy mother and baby - and knows that will look different for everyone. As well has chatting about optimum nutrition for mamas, we also dive into how to get our little babes eating health as well.
Show mentions:Ellyn Satter – Division of Responsibility Self-Compassion Research by Kristin Neff
Visit Heidi's blog hereFollow Heidi on Instagram
Buy her Book at all major book retailers

Life and Love with 4 Kids with Margaux Parker Nov 12, 2019

Margaux Parker is an Australian radio host, mum of four, and wife of former NRL legend, Corey Parker. Today we chat about life with 4 kids, her approach to her pregnancies and births, how surrendering to what your baby needs and letting go of what you think you should be doing is one of the most liberating things a new mum can do, navigating the double-edged sword that is social media and how to approach that with your preteens and teens, finding the time to connect with her 4 kids and why putting yourself first matters. We also chat about how, in prioritizing herself, Margaux lost 15kg in 3 months. Her approach is sensible and sustainable, and leaves excuses at the door. I hope you love this chat as much as I did!
Follow Margaux on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/margaux_parker/

Learning to Trust - home birth, loss & grief with Alanna Jane Nov 06, 2019

TRIGGER WARNING: MiscarriageThis week’s episode is super special to me. I am chatting with Alanna Jane - a mother, writer, meditation and kundalini yoga teacher who just happens to be one of my very best friends and whom I adore so much. We are chalk and cheese and have had a strong friendship from the day we met over 10 years ago on dance floor. I feel like Alanna is my own personal guru and when I find myself in situations that are uncomfortable or when I just don’t know what to do, I call Alanna – she has a way of bringing calm and wisdom to any situation and always knows just what to say. Today we talk about her decision to home birth and what was involved in making those decisions and then we get pretty deep specifically about grief and miscarriages, so I urge you not to listen to this, if this is something that is quite fresh for you or you’re not in the right headspace to relive some of those emotions. If enough time has passed for you, which will be different for everyone, and you do feel like you are capable of listening to it, I have no doubt you will find comfort in her words.
You can find out more about Alanna's Self Acceptance Day Retreat on Dec 8here: https://www.instagram.com/iam.alannajane/
The book we both highly recommend is Anita Moorjani's Dying to be Me

Permission to be who you were meant to be with Amy Lea Oct 29, 2019

In this week's episode, we’re going a little left of field, but, having said that, I know that it’s still going to be of tremendous value for you mamas and mamas to be out there. Today I chat with Amy Lea - an Astrologer, Human Design Guide and Energy & Soul Medicine Practitioner.
Human Design gives you real permission to be who you are and trust your initiative – as a woman, as a mother as a friend, (everything really!) and particularly if you’ve always found yourself at odds with what the world is telling you you’re 'supposed to be doing' and what you feel is right for you. Human Design combines many different schools of wisdom in one: the Hindu chakras, the Chinese iChing, conventional astrology and the Kabbala’s Tree of Life and put very simply it shows you how your energy is designed to interact with the world around you. As Amy describes it's the perfect tool for self exploration.
This is something I am currently diving deep into and I have had so many uh huh moments in the process. I know this isn’t for everyone, but I really encourage you to listen to this episode with an open mind and if it resonates, take the next step towards finding out more.
Start here: https://www.mybodygraph.com/Find out more about Amy here: https://www.amylea.com.au/Jenna Zoe, (aka the Queen of Human Design: https://www.jennazoe.com/

Redefining and Reclaiming your Libido with Lauren White Oct 22, 2019

Our next guest Lauren White is your libido’s secret weapon. A soft, yet strong advocate for your instincts, boundaries, joy, pleasure & self-love and a big part of her mission is bridging the gap that exists between mamas and their libidos. A qualified sexologist and author of Permission: Personal Liberation for Switched on Women, Lauren is based in Brisbane Australia and talks to us today about how life outside the bedroom is more often than not, a mirror for what goes on inside it; how your libido is so much more than a desire to have sex and how us mamas can be a mama AND sexual, at the same time (we don’t have to choose between the two). Can I get an Amen?!
You can find out more about Lauren's work here: https://www.laurenwhite.com.au/Follow Lauren on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/laurenwhiteau/To find out more about Alisa Vitti who was mentioned in the show, visit https://www.floliving.com/

Overcoming overwhelm, comparison and fatigue with Dr Libby Quinn Oct 14, 2019

Dr Libby Quinn is the founder and Principal Clinical Psychologist of The Women’s Psychology Clinic in Northern NSW. Her passion lies in working with and nurturing women, often mothers, with the most up to date and evidence-based therapy that is specifically tailored to their needs. This episode is all about overcoming overwhelm and fatigue as a new mama and why in order for children to thrive and develop we need to prioritise the psychological and emotional wellbeing of the mother. Dr Libby also talks about why identifying your unique values is key in dodging the ever present comparison trap and some things we we can do to reconnect with our partners and why spending time apart is so important. So many great nuggets of wisdom in this interview, I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Book Recommendations:Mating in Captivity by Esther PerelPermission by Lauren WhiteWhat No One Tells You – A guide to your emotions from pregnancy to motherhood by Dr. Alexandra Sacks
Purchase Tickets to ‘You Get to Choose’ Event with Kylie Camps
Follow Dr Libby on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenspsychologist/

Why your baby's movements are key to their learning & development with Alana Gardini Oct 08, 2019

Today’s guest is Australian Paediatric physiotherapist Alana Gardini, author of My Strong Little Body - an early intervention therapy resource in eBook format, designed for any parent interested in nurturing their child’s first movement and learning experiences. It is also a perfect guide for parents who want to support their baby with developmental delay, who may not be able to access a physiotherapist face-to-face.In today’s episode we chat about that fascinating link between your baby's movement and their brain development together with tips and tricks on how to support your baby through these important milestones - including loving tummy time!
For 20% OFF your copy of My Strong Little Body use the code BECOMINGMUM20 at the checkout.
https://www.mystronglittlebody.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/my.strong.little.body/

The truth about Sleep Training with Michelle Jackson (Part 2) Sep 30, 2019

Some call this week’s guest ‘The Baby Whisperer’ and I couldn’t agree more. Hand over heart, my transition into motherhood would not have been the same if it weren’t for Michelle Jackson. She has been such a constant source of knowledge, wisdom, love and light (with a few f bombs thrown in for good measure!) Michelle is a Registered Nurse, Registered Midwife, Childbirth Educator & Infant Sleep Specialist with over 20 years experience, having worked extensively in both private and public practice in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast.
She pretty much knows everything there is to know about babies, so much so that this is Part 2 of the interview, with Part 1 released last week, which was about Michelle’s first birth and how it couldn’t have been further from what she had envisioned as a midwife. She talked about the difficulties of having a baby in the NICU and her struggle to breastfeed.
This week we will give you the low down on what sleep training actually is, because there is a lot of negative misconceptions out there. As always and as Michelle said last week, it’s about writing your own story – so you do whatever is right for you and your family. And if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!
You can follow Michelle on Facebook here:facebook.com/Parents2bAnd on Instagram here: instagram.com/parents2b

Birth & Breastfeeding - when a midwife's plan doesn't go to plan with Michelle Jackson (Part 1) Sep 23, 2019

Some call this week’s guest ‘The Baby Whisperer’ and I couldn’t agree more. Hand over heart, my transition into motherhood would not have been the same if it weren’t for Michelle Jackson. She has been such a constant source of knowledge, wisdom, love and light (with a few f bombs thrown in for good measure!) Michelle is a Registered Nurse, Registered Midwife, Childbirth Educator & Infant Sleep Specialist with over 20 years experience, having worked extensively in both private and public practice in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast.
She pretty much knows everything there is to know about babies, so much so that this is Part 1 of the interview, with part 2 coming next week, which will give you the low down on what sleep training is all about. This week is all about Michelle’s first birth and now it couldn’t have been further from what she had envisioned as a midwife. She talks about the difficulties of having a baby in the NICU and her struggle to breastfeed. She is also a mother of 3, which is part of the reason why Parents 2 B, her business, was founded, and covers all aspects of pregnancy including antenatal classes, breastfeeding & early parenting support and sleep & settling consultations both in home & online.
You can follow Michelle on Facebook here:facebook.com/Parents2bAnd on Instagram here: instagram.com/parents2b

Prolapses and Pelvic Floors - What you need to know with Alison Hanrahan Sep 16, 2019

On today’s episode I chat with Alison Hanrahan, the Principal Physiotherapist of Chevron Island Physio here on the Gold Coast. Alison isn’t your normal run-of-the-mill physio that just deals with musculoskeletal issues in her patients. She has undergone extensive postgraduate training in the areas of pelvic floor rehabilitation for urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse, exercise during pregnancy and the post-natal period, and management of pregnancy-related pelvic pain and pelvic floor pain – all the things very relevant to pregnant mamas and new mamas out there listening to this podcast!
If you have pelvic floor issues, then you’re definitely going to want to listen to this and if you’ve yet to have your bub I think it’s really important to be across what can potentially happen and things you can do to minimize your risk. This is not to scare anyone out of having a vaginal birth, it’s to give you all the information so you can be the most informed you can be.
30% off you initial consult If you are on the Gold Coast, simply mention that you are a listener of the Becoming Mum podcast for 30% off your initial consultation.Chevron Island Physio - 07 5504 7000

Giving your baby the best start to good gut health with Georgia Nike Sep 09, 2019

Today’s guest is Georgia Nike, a qualified nutritionist and Pilates instructor from the Sunshine Coast in QLD. She is known as @The_Gut_Fix_Mummy on Instagram and this amazing lady reached out to me when I started sharing my breastfeeding struggles. Her message to me was exactly what I needed to hear at a time where I felt like I was failing my daughter. Today's episode talks about Georgia's breastfeeding experience (which includes breastmilk, donor milk and formula) and what to do if your baby does need extra supplementation due to missing out on vital probiotics (hint: it's super easy!) We also chat about some of the best ways to introduce healthy foods to your babies when it's time for them to start on solids.
Georgia's book recommendations are below:Nourishing Beginnings by Renee Kohley
Baby it’s only natural by Talita Sheedy
Bubba yum yum - The paleo way for babies and toddlers by Charlotte Gregg, Helen Padarin, and Pete Evans
SPECIAL OFFERGeorgia is offering a short 30 minute Zoom consultation (just $60!) for any new mums wanting to dive a little deeper in their health and bub's health after birth. Let her know you are a listener of this podcast!

What I learnt from a 16 hr labour and struggling to breast feed Sep 02, 2019

Woah! To be ever-so-cliche, what a freaking journey the last few months have been! We welcomed our little princess, Lucia Skye to the world on June 15th and let me say, nothing happened the way that I thought it would! This episodes dives deep into how it all happened and the lessons that I have learnt along the way. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did recounting it for you! Below are some of the resources/people I have mentioned that you might find helpful:
Eggplant Babies Belly 2 Birth Hypnobirthing Placenta EncapsulationMichelle Jackson from Parents2b Jen Butler Early Parenting Georgia Nike aka The Gut Fix Mummy
Follow me over on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/nicolejoyinspire/

Reclaiming your WILD with Dr Michelle Peris Aug 12, 2019

Dr. Michelle Peris has over 10 years experience as a naturopathic doctor, and is the Founder of The Poppy Clinic in Oakville Ontario, where, through teaching women of all ages and life stages how to listen to their bodies and tune into the wisdom inside, Dr Michelle helps them create a life that feels good to live, with energy and passion that had been long forgotten. She is also the host of the Rebel Talk Podcast and lady behind the #rebeltribe where she inspires women to lean in and trust the potential of their feminine power. She also believes birth is a powerful experience that transforms a woman into a confident, deeply intuitive, powerful being and wants to change the way we speak about labour and birth.
Find out more about Dr Michelle here: https://poppyclinic.com/our-practitioners/Follow on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/drmichelleperis/and here: https://www.instagram.com/the_poppy_clinic/The books mentioned in this episode were Women Who Run with the Wolves and Wild Power

#realmumtalk Surrogacy in Australia with Melonie Wells Aug 05, 2019

Melonie Wells is a 35 year old single mum, who is also a Gestational Surrogate living in Tasmania, Australia. Together with an egg donor in Victoria, two intended parents in NSW and the fertility clinic in QLD her first adventure as a surrogate was a nationwide effort! Today we’ll chat about surrogacy in Australia, the process, the legalities and considerations future parents to be might need to make on their path to becoming parents.
For more information on Surrogacy in Australia, see the below links:
Australian Surrogacy Community https://www.facebook.com/groups/ftsaustSarah Jefford – www.sarahjefford.comFertility Connections – www.fertilityconnections.com.auFamilies Through Surrogacy - https://www.familiesthrusurrogacy.comSurrogacy Australia – www.surrogacyaustralia.org

Accepting you are enough without a baby with Anna Victoria Jul 29, 2019

Anna Victoria is a fitness professional based in California. She is the creator of Fit Body with Anna Victoria App and has a community of over 1 million strong on social media. She is one of 7 children, has always wanted a family of her own and like many struggling to conceive, never expected it to be so hard – particularly when she leads such a quote, unquote “healthy” lifestyle. This is her story of trying to conceive for the last year and a half with husband Luca, and how they came to accept that they were enough, and that their lives were enough, with or without a baby.

Excruciating periods & almost dying to falling pregnant naturally with Shannele Newberry Jul 22, 2019

Shannele Newberry, a former professional Hair Stylist, is now a certified Health Coach specialising in Women and Pregnancy. After a dramatic health scare in South America, Shannele began to make health and wellbeing her number one priority and made a choice to remove chemicals and toxins from her home and live a conscious, healthy, and intentional life. She is deeply intuitive and very passionate and today we’re going to hear about this remarkable women went from a teenager in excruciating pain with endometriosis and PCOS, to falling pregnant naturally with her two boys after being told she would never have children at all.
Find out more about Shannele here: www.shannelenewbery.com
This is the Dalai Lama Quote that was mentioned:Man surprises me most about humanity. Because he sacrifices his health in order to make money. Then he sacrifices money to recuperate his health. And then he is so anxious about the future that he does not enjoy the present; the result being that he does not live in the present or the future; he lives as if he is never going to die, and then dies having never really lived.

Let's talk about sex... sounds and pooping in Labour with Liesel Teen Jul 15, 2019

Liesel Teen has been a Labor and Delivery Nurse for over 4 years and runs a very successful blog and instagram account, mommy.labornurse that openly shares her nursing knowledge to help mamas-to-be learn more about pregnancy and birth for a happier, healthier and safer delivery. She talks about all the things you want to know about but don’t ask about – so today I’m going to do that for you from sex sounds in labour to caring about your pubic hair – we’ve got you covered!
Find out more about Liesel and her birth course here: www.mommylabornurse.com
Liesel's Must-have new mumma postpartum essentials: https://mommylabornurse.com/postpartum-essentials/

Long-awaited Child - IVF, Adoption, Donor Eggs and Surrogacy with Kellie Harriden Jul 08, 2019

Kellie Harriden, author of Long-awaited Child is an incredible Australian woman who travelled across continents to beat the odds in order to fulfill her quest to have children. Her journey to becoming mum started when she was 31 years old and 8 long years later she got the thing she wanted most – her twins Bane and Daya. Her and her partner Ian battled one obstacle after another, and this story spans across IVF, foster care, adoption, donor eggs and international surrogacy. It’s truly remarkable and I hope if nothing else, it inspires you to never let go of hope.
Purchase Kellie’s book here – https://longawaitedchild.com/products/long-awaited-child-the-book

The role of a Doula with Moran Liviani Jul 02, 2019

Moran Liviani is a certified Doula, Stillbirth Doula, Hypnobirthing practitioner, Placenta Encapsulation Specialist, Lamaze certified childbirth educator and mother of three beautiful girls. Located in Brisbane, Australia, Moran is an advocate for a well known Marie Mongan quote – ‘when you change the way you think about birth, the way you birth will change’. In today’s episode we chat about what role a doula plays in your birth and how childbirth education and removing fear is key to a positive birth experience – however you decide to birth your baby. Moran aims to give her clients the trust to believe in their bodies and their abilities to handle anything and to let them gain the knowledge to the array of choices that are available so that they can make informed decisions when it comes to their birth.
Recommended Reading: Birth with Confidence by Rhea DempseyGentle Birth, Gentle Mothering by Dr Sarah BuckleySpiritual Midwifery by Ina May Gaskin
Recommended Documentaries:The Business of Being Born The Face of Birth
Find out more about Moran and her services here: www.2life.com.au

Birth Without Fear: Your judgement-free guide with January Harshe Jun 10, 2019

January Harshe is a wife and a mother of 6, who started a Facebook page called Birth Without Fear to inform women of their birth options and then support them in their own individual choices, a few months later that was followed by a blog which has since evolved into world-wide Birth Without Fear events, a podcast with her husband Brandon and most recently January’s first book - Birth Without Fear: The Judgement-Free Guide to Taking Charge of Your Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum. I could NOT put this book down, I think I read it 3-4 days and if women only read one book during their pregnancy – I’m going to call it and say this is the one they need to read. January’s passion is to support women on their journeys of womanhood, pregnancy, birth, and motherhood with peace, love and healing. I hope you enjoy our chat as much as I did!
Find out more about January and BWF here: https://birthwithoutfearblog.com/Follow on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/birthwithoutfear/Follow on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/birthwithoutfear/Leave a Review on Amazon or Amazon Australia

Hypnosis for IVF, Pregnancy + Birth with Grace Smith Jun 03, 2019

Grace Smith is a world-renowned hypnotherapist and founder of both Grace Space, “Your Virtual Hypnotherapist,” and Grace Method Hypnotherapy School, and author of Close Your Eyes, Get Free, her first book on self-hypnosis, which hit the shelves in July last year. As you’ll hear today, Grace started off as a skeptic but when hypnosis transformed her life, and shortly thereafter the lives of her loved ones, she made it her mission to make hypnosis mainstream. Her private clients include celebrities, CEOs, professional athletes, and government officials and she has been featured in the likes of Marie Claire, Forbes, InStyle, MindBodyGreen and The Hollywood Times. Today we discuss just how hypnosis works and how you can use it on your journey to becoming mum with specific hypnosis recordings for Fertility & IVF Anxiety-Relief, Easing First Trimester Symptoms, Breathing Through Childbirth and Gentle parenting. Make sure you listen all the way to the end as Grace runs us through a deeply relaxing group hypnosis session, that will benefit all of us.
Find out more about Grace and her programs here - www.gshypnosis.comFollow Grace on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/GraceSmithTV/and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/GraceSmithTV/

Why you need to see a pelvic-health focused practitioner with Sami Cattach May 27, 2019

Sami Cattach is an Australian trained and registered physiotherapist, and mother of one. She works in private practice with a focus on pelvic health and peri-natal care and continually provides education to pre and postnatal women, yoga teachers, doctors, and other health professionals. She is one of the few practitioners in the world who is both a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist and Restorative Exercise Specialist, certified by Nutritious Movement founder and biochemist, Katy Bowman. Sami’s practice, Body and Birth Physiotherapy located in Brisbane, Australia is designed for women of all ages and uses an approach that takes into account the whole body, with the goal to have you feeling pain-free, empowered, and confident for the long term! In today’s chat we talk about the importance of postpartum women seeing pelvic-health focused practitioners, what a vaginal examinations can tell you about your pelvic floor, why being tight in the pelvic floor can be just as problematic as a weak set of muscles, Diastasis Recti, the most effective labour positions and so much more!
For 25% OFF Sami’s Prental Online Program, designed to safely guide expecting mothers through one of the most challenging and beautiful times of their lives, use the CODE: JOYMUM25 (all caps)
Find out more about Sami’s Brisbane practice here: www.bodyandbirthphysio.com
Follow on Instagram here: http://instagram.com/bodyandbirthphysio
and Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/bodyandbirthphysio
Watch on YouTube here: http://bit.ly/2HDZdBK

Real Food for Pregnancy, eating right for you and baby with Lily Nichols May 20, 2019

Lily Nichols is a real food Dietician, Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Educator. She is also the best-selling author of two books, Real Food for Gestational Diabetes and her latest, which we talk about today, Real Food for Pregnancy. In her book and in today’s episode, Lily debunks a LOT of prenatal nutrition myths. Most of the prenatal nutrition advice we hear today is out-dated or not evidence based. And this book includes over 930 citations – to say it is well researched and evidence based is an understatement! We chat about supplements, macro and micro nutrients, high fat versus low fat, whether it’s possible to hit all your nutritional requirements if you are following a vegetarian or vegan diet and why eating runny eggs and sashimi may not be anywhere near as dangerous as we are led to believe. There has never been a more comprehensive and well-referenced resource on prenatal nutrition, I loved the book and highly recommend it to all mums-to-be and women even thinking about having children.
You can find out more about Lily here: www.lilynicholsrdn.com (you can download her first chapter for free)
Follow Lily on Instagram here
Follow Lily on Facebook here

#realmumtalk The importance of turning within amidst fertility struggles with Kate Caddle May 13, 2019

Kate Caddle is an award winning life coach, writer and speaker, who works with women whose lives look great on paper, but don’t feel so great on the inside. By helping them overcome jealousy, comparison and perfectionism, Kate empowers women to live their #bestlife through thriving health and happiness. But as you’ll hear in today’s episode, things haven’t always been so rosy for this now thriving and happy Gold Coast woman. Today she opens up about her infertility struggles starting with her experience with endometriosis, IVF, changing her lifestyle both physically and mentally and finally, falling pregnant naturally. Self love and turning within is a big focus for Kate and I hope you enjoy hearing just how this concept has really transformed her life and has the potential to transform yours.
Find out more about Kate here - www.katecaddle.com
Follow Kate on Instagram here

Crystals, Essential Oils + Placenta Encapsulation with Lou Mackie May 07, 2019

Louise Mackie is the founder of Yogi Tree, which was born as a vehicle for her many passions and creative exploration. A deeply soulful woman dedicated to the service of women in her community, Louise is passionate about using the gifts mother nature has given us including crystals, essential oils and flower essences to enhance the wellbeing of women – particular pregnant and postpartum ladies. She is also a yoga teacher, holistic birth practitioner and placenta encapsulation specialist. We cover all of this in our chat today, so if you’re an earth mumma that loves all those things you’re going to love this!
Visit Louise's website here: https://www.yogitreewellbeing.com/Follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/yogitreeweb/

Changing perspectives on infertility and pelvic health with Nikki Bergen Apr 29, 2019

Nikki Bergen is the amazing lady behind The Belle Method, which is described as pelvic health meets Pilates. And more recently, The Bump method which is transforming exercise in pregnancy and in post partum. Nikki is a Pilates Instructor and professional Dancer based in Toronto who is a new mumma that has her own story of fertility struggles. She opens up about that in this episode as well as practical and interesting advice for the mums-to-be and the recovering mumma. Her message, which I love, is the slower you go the fast you change, hitting back at this unreasonable concept of “bouncing back quickly after child birth.” Even with a teething toddler in the background and technology issues – we got there in the end and I am so glad we did. I loved this chat and I hope you do too!
You can find out more about Nikki here: thebellemethod.comAnd follow her on Facebook here: www.facebook.com/TheBelleMethodAnd on Instagram here: www.instagram.com/thebellemethod

#nomumleftbehind Creating Your Support Network with Nikki McCahon Apr 23, 2019

Mums-to-be spend so much time thinking about and preparing for the birth, the nursery and what name they’re going to give their child, but in today’s episode Nikki McCahon who runs Mama Tribe talks about the importance of a postpartum support plan. Founded in May 2017 by two lonely mums who had no family and friends nearby, Mama Tribe has become an Australia, New Zealand and now Kuala Lumpur mum meet-up community with thousands of mum meet ups held weekly in over 50 locations. The goal at Mama Tribe is simple – ‘No Mum Left Behind’ –ensuring no mum feels lonely, isolated or without face to face support. They’re the only national network of face-to-face contact with mums, completely run by mums, for mums. So new mummas, please do yourself a favour and become a members – Mama Tribe is completely free to join!
Find out more here: www.mamatribe.com.auFollow Mama Tribe on Instagram and Facebook

Matrescence and the transition into Motherhood with Amy Taylor-Kabbaz Apr 15, 2019

Amy Taylor-Kabbaz started her career as a journalist at the ABC, working her way up from producer and news reader in regional South Australia to senior producer at ABC Sydney. When Amy started a family though, everything changed. Today we are going to hear about how she made that change from her media career to now Editor and Creator of Happy Mama Magazine, Author of best selling book Happy Mama: 'the guide to finding yourself again’, and host of the Happy Mama Movement podcast. She is passionate about spreading the much needed message of matrescence which involves all the complexities that are often ignored when a woman transitions into motherhood. Every mama needs to hear this, I had many a goosebump moment in this interview as there are some very powerful messages within it.
You can find out more about Amy here: https://www.happymama.com.au/

Empowering yourself through IVF with Jaclyn Harris Apr 08, 2019

Jaclyn Harris is a Naturopath and Pregnancy Wellness Consultant, with 15 years experience. Based in Tasmania, Australia Jaclyn is passionate about helping women going through IVF and Fertility struggles to create the positive pregnancy they dream about. And not just surviving IVF but actually enjoying the process. In today’s episode we talk about Jaclyns own fertility struggles and the importance of preparing holistically for IVF, birth and motherhood. There is so much that we can do as a conscious participant throughout the IVF process - it's not just up to the specialists.
Get your free 3 Step IVF Confidence Checklist here: www.jaclynharris.com/IVF-checklist
https://www.facebook.com/JaclynHarriswellness/
https://www.instagram.com/jaclyn_harris_/

#realmumtalk Surviving Hyperemesis Gravidarum with Nadine Muller Apr 01, 2019

Nadine Muller is a Registered Emergency Nurse with the Australian Air Force with over 12 years experience, an avid health and fitness enthusiast – she’s also a Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Coach and runs her own Online Coaching and Mentoring business. After we connected online I saw that Nadine was going through Hyperemesis Gravidarum aka #HG (or the condition that Princess Kate has!) I wanted to get her honest take on what it’s like as I am beginning to discover it’s more common than we might have thought. This is a great episode to be able to somewhat understand what someone is going through and how you can best support them. Our chat takes all kinds of twists and turns, and we cover:
(4:00) Hyperemesis Gravidarum - what it is and how it affects women physically, mentally, emotionally, financially and professionally
(8:17) Being in the ‘death zone’ and what it’s like not being able to walk to the end of the street
(12:00) Coming to terms with not being able to function as a mother, wife or friend
(14:28) The significant markers for a HG diagnosis
(17:00) Scheduled hospital visits to manage symptoms and not even being able to keep water down
(26:00) Why asking for support and announcing prior to 12 weeks might be a good option for some women
(34:30) How you can support someone going through HG by helping to lift the burden
(41:30) 'You’re pregnant, not broken' – fitness during pregnancy
(44:00) Making the shift from training to exercise and movement
(49:00) Why, generally, lifting weights is no different to picking up your toddler
(55:30) Finding your tribe and controlling your social media space+ a whole lot more!
You can find Nadine on Instagram @nadinemullerHG Supporthttp://www.hyperemesis.org/https://www.facebook.com/HERFoundation

Managing Sleep Expectations with Jen Butler Mar 25, 2019

Jen Butler is Baby & Toddler Consultant passionate about helping mumma’s find their flow in motherhood. She is a Registered Nurse, Midwife, Maternal and Child Health Nurse, Lactation Consultant and mother of two, so it’s safe to say she really knows her stuff. With her extensive clinical experience in working with families, Jen teaches parents to not only better understand behaviours, triggers and natural cycles that can aid their sleeping and feeding routines, but also appreciate that their baby or toddler is wonderfully unique; and that change is inevitable. As someone who has loved their 8-9 hours sleep for the past 36 years this conversation really gave me hope and taught me that it doesn’t have to be as bad as some of those stories out there!
In today's episode we cover:
(5:23) Respecting the 4th trimester and making the transition for your baby an easy one
(7:00) The 5 S’s of the fourth trimester and why you need them
(10:00) Why strict sleeping and feeding schedules are typically realistic for a new baby and mumma
(12:50) Self settling is a learned skill and normally doesn’t happen until 4 – 6 months age
(17:15) No baby is born a bad sleeper
(20:55) Why you must listen to this if your toddler is still waking every night
(24:00) Why breastfeeding is not the reason your baby isn't sleeping through the night
(27:55) Why dummies/pacifiers aren't always a bad thing
(32:35) What to do if your child is cat-napping
(36:10) Early rising and how to get your baby to stop waking so early+ a whole lot more!
Find out more about Jen hereFollow Jen on Instagram hereWatch Jen on YouTube hereRead more about Dr Harvey Karp's 5S's here

#realmumtalk On our 34th attempt, we got our second miracle with Emily-Jade Mar 18, 2019

Emily Jade is a breakfast radio host, television presenter and writer based on the Gold Coast with over 20 years experience in the media. She is also very versed in the heartache that goes along with trying to start a family and today you’re going to hear a very raw and honest tale of how her and her husband Gerard brought their two miracle children into the world. It took them 2 years to fall with daughter Millie and after 32 transfers and a miscarriage their son Teddy was born last year. It’s an incredible story that Emily has a way of lightening up in a way that only she can. In this episode we cover:
(4:30) Preparing your first-born for a sibling(6:27) Why we as parents aren't meant to know it all and asking for help is key(9:45) Being diagnosed with Hashimoto's and Endometriosos(12:35) Seeking out natural alternatives and the importance of trying it all(18:00) Emily's low point - handing back foster kids and experiencing a miscarriage all at once(21:00) The power of taking a mental break from trying to conceive(23:20) Complications with an Incompetent Cervix in a geriatric pregnancy (any pregnant woman over 35 is considered a geriatric pregnancy!!)(30:38) Alcohol as a coping mechanism and having something to look forward to(33:00) When men and partners need to be considered in dealing with an IVF journey(40:23) Why acceptance of 'you can't change what you've been given, but you can change how you deal with it' is so important(43:00) The importance of mutually agreeing on an 'exit point' of your conception journey+ a whole lot more!
You can follow Emily on Instagram hereListen on 102.9 Hot Tomato hereGet support from The Endometriosis Association (Qld) Inc, or (QENDO) here

#realmumtalk Chrystal's experience with Post Natal Depression Mar 11, 2019

Fellow Gold Coaster Chrystal Abernethy is a 32 year old mother of two to her beautiful girls Pearl and Gypsy. Otherwise known as Mumma C Essentials on Instagram, Chrystal gives other mums a real honest view of parenting and motherhood, mixed in together with two of her other loves – crystals and essential oils. In this #realmumtalk episode we dive deep into her experience with post natal depression. Please note that if you are experiencing PND right now, may I ask as a matter of self care for you, to SKIP this episode – as we do hear about suicidal thoughts and attempts. I have removed graphic details as the essence of the conversation still runs strong without them, and I thought it unnecessary for people to hear. Again I have done this in case this episode ends up in the ears of someone too fragile to hear it. What both Chrystal and I want more than anything is for this open conversation to serve as a reminder that you do not have to do things on your own and reaching out and asking for help is nothing to be ashamed of – it could in fact just save a life.
Please call Lifeline – 131 114 or Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636 if you are in need of immediate help.
Resources from this episode:
Books:

Happy Mama by Amy Taylor-Kabbaz
Buddhism for Mothers by Sarah Napthali

Meditation apps:

Headspace
Calm
Stop, Breathe & Think

Crystals & Essential Oils:

Rose Quartz
Amethyst
Bergamot Essential Oil (The Oil of Self Acceptance)

Useful Links:https://healthyfamilies.beyondblue.org.au/pregnancy-and-new-parents/maternal-mental-health-and-wellbeing/mental-health-checklist-for-mums https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/postnatal-depressionBears of Hope – 1300 11 HOPE | www.bearsofhope.org.auPANDA 1300 726 306Peach Tree www.peachtree.org.au

Silent Tears - an 8 year IVF journey with Lisa Bondarenko Mar 04, 2019

Lisa Bondarenko, based in Adelaide, South Australia runs a private counselling practise and provides specialist support to patients and couples primarily dealing with fertility issues and IVF treatment. This is how Lisa and I met, she was my counsellor and the reason I didn’t go completely bat-shit crazy. She also runs retreats and workshops, is a keynote speaker and author of Silent Tears – an authentic account of the highs, lows and everything in between that is often experienced through IVF and a fertility crisis. Lisa had her own 8 year journey to have her little boy Jack and todays episode takes us though that very journey with some very helpful information for couples going through IVF as well – including:
(2:22) how her own experience has given her understanding and empathy towards couples going through IVF
(8:20) it doesn’t matter whose ‘fault’ and why the blame game serves no one – the process is still the process
(11:55) you are more than a mother or a father, there is more to your identity
(15:00) IVF is a loss and you are allowed to grieve
(22:00) the only way through grief, is through it and why moving is better than being stuck
(27:30) the most powerful thing to say to people who are going through IVF
(37:00) feeling the stigma and what we can do to change that
(41:30) how can couples look after themselves during the process looking after your relationship
(48:00) getting back into the drivers seat and taking control
(56:00) there’s nothing wrong with taking some time out and running on your own schedule
+ a whole lot more!You can find out more about Lisa here – www.lisabondarenko.com.auOn Instagram here

Let's talk Breastfeeding with Amberley Harris Feb 25, 2019

Amberley Harris is a 36 year old mother of 2, a registered midwife and founder of Maternal Instincts - a breastfeeding support business designed to educate & inspire the modern mama. Having been a midwife for over 10 years now, she believes that breastfeeding is absolutely achievable with the right support and she has given a modern makeover to the daggy breastfeeding videos produced in the 80’s and 90’s! NOTE: This is not an episode shaming mothers who haven't been able to breastfeed or making new mothers feel bad. This is about pointing women in the right direction of quality resources should they want to breastfeed or try some different techniques. Only you know what is right for you and your baby.
In today’s episode we talk about:
(7:00) the basics of nipple position, mouth of baby and the importance of preparing BEFORE birth
(16:30) first 6 weeks is crucial and how to avoid nipple confusion(21:00) benefits of breastfeeding
(25:00) how inductions and caesarians and hemorrages can impact breastfeeding and what you need to know
(27:25) why the #fedisbest and #breastisbest language doesn't help new mummas
(30:00) why with the right support you can go onto breastfeeding your subsequent children even if you didn’t have a positive experience with your first child
(32:10) must have products for breastfeeding
(42:45) what the #662 movement is and why you might like to consider it+ a whole lot more!
You can find Amberley here: www.maternal-instincts.com.auOn Instagram hereTO RECEIVE $20 OFF Amberley's Breastfeeding Video Series ($79) CLICK HERE

#realmumtalk You are not defined by your birth with Jo Anderson Feb 18, 2019

Jo Anderson is a food, brand and lifestyle photographer (one of the best if you ask me!) who just happens to be a really great friend of mine. A mother of two herself, Jo is someone who has been there from the start of my fertility journey and someone who has always been such a beautiful shining light in my life. She exudes a warmth and wisdom that makes everyone she comes into contact with want to be her friend! And after listening to this episode, I am sure you will agree! We talk about such an important topic - you are not defined by your birth - and managing all of those expectations we can tend to feel as a new mum.
In this episode we cover:
(2:30) we discuss the collective pressure women feel to have a 'natural' birth and managing those expectations
(4:00) Jo's 4 day labour with her first child Marley and why she thought she couldn't ask for pain relief
(9:45) why having a private midwife made all the difference to her first birth
(16:22) assigning a new meaning to your birth - from 'failing' to 'birthing like a boss'
(18:10) the completely different experience of birthing her second daughter Summer
(24:00) being honest about not 'loving' motherhood and the disconnection Jo felt for the first 12 months of Marley's life and how that has now changed
(31:46) do what makes life easier for you, not necessarily what the experts say
(33:30) fitting in 'me' time as a mum and how this one simple change has made all the difference
(37:00) finding the divine feminine within and reconnecting with your husband++ a whole lot more!
You can find Jo here:www.joandersonphotography.com and here on Instagram

What you need to know about Hypnobirthing with Shari Lyon Feb 11, 2019

Shari Lyon is the director and founder of Belly2Birth, where she teachers couples about the many options they have when it comes to bringing their little cherubs into the world. She is an award-winning Hypnobirthing Australia practitioner passionate about spreading the message of positive birth and passionate about educating couples and mums to be about all their possible options. It’s not all about natural births either, that’s what makes Hypnobirthing Australia so different – Shari offers the only course in the world for a positive birth experience for a c-section delivery.
In this episode we cover:(5:00) How Hypnobirthing can assist in a long labour(12:10) How to involve your birth partner(15:30) Why Hypnobirthing is for all births, not just 'natural'(27:00) The important distinction between perceiving sensations versus feeling 'pain'(32:29) Hypnobirthing for VBAC(39:00) What you can expect to learn in a Hypnobirthing course with Shari(48:00) The importance of protecting your space and choosing only to hear positive birth stories+ a whole lot more!
You can find Shari here:www.belly2birth.com.au Instagram Facebook

Anxiety & Pregnancy and processing a miscarriage with Amanda Cavallaro Feb 04, 2019

Amanda Cavallaro, founder of the Anxiety Wellness Queen, has a background in Psychology, Criminology and Counselling and is passionate about reducing the stigma associated with mental health. Tired of the traditional and somewhat robotic methods used to treat anxiety, Amanda works one-on-one with clients in a way that validates your unique story and circumstance allowing you to feel comfortable and supported. In this episode we chat about how we can deal with anxiety as it pops up in pregnancy and why we need to be particularly gentle with ourselves and what we can do to support ourselves if we have had a miscarriage.
Specifically we talk about:
(5:10) Amanda's Top 5 tips for dealing with anxiety(22:14) Essential Oils for Anxiety(28:05) The ways you can support yourself emotionally during pregnancy and why I have an private Midwife (www.myownmidwifegc.com)(30:23) How sharing your story connects you more(33:00) The way in which I can stop myself comparing my pregnancy to others(35:55) Amanda's experience with miscarriage and how to best care yourself if it happens(48:10) Why we both don't agree with the 12 week rule(50:30) Thoughts on what to say to someone who has had a miscarriage++ a whole lot more
You can find Amanda here - www.anxietywellnessqueen.com Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
Links and NumbersSANDS – 1300 072 637 (miscarriage, stillbirth and newborn death support)www.sands.org.au/PANDA 1300 726 306Pregnancy, Birth and Baby – 1800 882 436Lifeline – 131114Beyond Blue – 1300 224 636 | www.beyondblue.org.auBears of Hope – 1300 11 HOPE | www.bearsofhope.org.auPeach Tree www.peachtree.org.au

#realmumtalk From calm birth to a non-stop screaming baby with Ash Lane Jan 28, 2019

In this episode we get a raw insight into Gold Coast fat loss and nutrition expert Ash Lane's birth story and just how challenging the early days were for her and her husband.
In this #realmumtalk episode we cover:
(3:20) the documentary that changed Ash's fear based mindset - The Business of Being Born(11:30) how Calm birth classes not only prepare the woman for birth, but is incredibly valuable for partners as well(17:20) Ash's experience of going into labour at 36 weeks and 4 days(32:00) a positive birth doesn't necessarily mean a pain-free birth(33:30) it's not always a overwhelming sense of love and connection when you first hold your baby(38:40) what it was like to have a screaming baby from word go(42:20) why it's so important to include gratitude, meditation and mindfulness into your morning routine(45:55) Ash's Aunty's trick for discovering her son had reflux(47:46) how newborn life takes a toll on new Dads too
+ a whole lot more!

Your Body Is Talking, It's Time To Listen With Nat Kringoudis Jan 12, 2019

In this episode I chat to Dr Nat Kringoudis, doctor of Chinese medicine, Acupuncturist, Author, Speaker and all-round natural fertility expert. She's also the founder of Melbourne women's health clinic, The Pagoda Tree, where her powerful fusion of Western and Chinese medicine, has helped thousands of women change the way they think about their health. Nat is also the creator of Yo'Nuts and producer of HealthTalks TV. And bonus, I get to call her my friend - someone that has been there for me since the start of our fertility journey. Her latest book, Beautiful You shows you how your hormones affect sexuality, physical health and appearance and mental wellbeing. Your body is talking ... It's time to listen! This is Nat's latest (and very important) take home message and it's a reminder to take back our power and accept the responsibility to get to know our bodies lies with us - not our doctor. She opens up the discussion on understanding your own body, balancing hormones and sexual empowerment. PLUS you can learn how to make your hormones happier than a Pharrell Williams song! In this episode we talk about: (08:40) why quick-fix pills spell disaster for your long term health (11:11) what your acne is telling you (16:30) why periods should NOT be painful and what to do if they are (21:50) what I attribute my success with IVF to and how Nat has supported her son's cystic fibrosis that has left the professionals gob smacked - mindset (28:15) why it's so important to be up front with your children about sex (34:41) why we need to teach teens about more then just preventing pregnancy (40:50) how health conditions that you may be facing now are a direct result of how you have lead your life so far - and what you can do from this point on (42:40) why it's not all doom and gloom for women with endometriosis and PCOS + a whole lot more! Find Nat here: www.natkringoudis.com Follow Nat here: www.instagram.com/natkringoudis

Our 5 Year Journey To Falling Pregnant With Nicole Joy Jan 12, 2019

In this first episode, I open up about how I had to come to terms with the fact that I wasn't going to fall pregnant the way I thought I would. When you're young, you think making babies is as simple as having sex (if only!) Boy was that about a kazillion miles from the truth! This journey was a 5 year journey for hubby and I and in this episode I talk about: (06:00) how guilty I felt as all of closest friends fell pregnant and I couldn't be there for them in the way that I wanted (07:00) what going through my bitter, angry (and judgey!) stage phase was like (10:10) how we responded to ignorant and insensitive questions and statements (13:00) the moment I started to write a letter to my unborn child and how that made me realise what I really wanted (14:30) how a gentle suggestion to perhaps try anti-depressants got me back on track (16:20) how Anita Moorjani's book Dying to be Me changed everything! (22:00) my baby-making lolly ritual and how I supported myself naturally ++ a whole lot more! I hope by sharing my story anyone going through a similar situation feels a little less alone and a little more, even if just a glimmer, hope.

My Morning Sickness Hacks With Nicole Joy Jan 12, 2019

Morning sickness - it's like paying for a wild party you never got to go to! I honestly don't think anyone could have prepared me for how sh*t I was going to feel and how robbed of my health I could possibly be! This is my personal experience and some of the things that helped (and didn't do squat!) In this episode I talk about: (03:55) debunking the myth 'the sicker you feel the healthier the baby' (04:45) my experience with acupuncture (05:40) taking Vitamin B6 (I took this brand) (06:30) why it's important to not get hungry! (07:52) how Hypnosis can help (I used these two tracks, here and here) (08:53) seasickness bands (I used these) (10:00) why taking your vitamins at night could help (10:15) Magnesium could be the missing factor (I used this spray) (13:30) how essential oils helped me and why I don't fear using them ++ a whole lot more! I hope you enjoy this episode and more importantly, it helps!

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