The Birth Lounge Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 398 One Mom, Five Breech Births with Jessica Geay Nov 14, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Jessica, a mama of five — all born breech — to unpack what it’s really like to birth outside the box (literally!). From her first head-down birth to her series of empowering breech births, Jessica shares her story of confidence, trust, and self-advocacy. Together, they explore how breech birth can be safe, positive, and deeply powerful when you’re supported by the right team. You’ll hear how Jessica learned to trust her body, release fear, and even fire providers who didn’t align with her vision. This conversation is filled with real stories, fresh perspective, and a big dose of encouragement for anyone who wants to birth boldly and on their own terms.

Guest Bio:

Jessica Gray is a first responder (NREMT), social media community organizer, wife, mom of 6 and breech birth advocate. 5 of Jessica's children have been born breech naturally in two different countries. Jessica created an online community that has proved invaluable to women globally who have found out their babies are presenting breech. Recognized as a go-to in social media for breech insight and resources, her Instagram account @breechbirth is daily interacting with women who are desperate for resources and encouragement. Jessica also shares her advocacy for breech birth through speaking engagements and appearances on popular birth podcasts. Currently she is working on writing a guide to breech birth for moms. She resides in the Southern United States with her family.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Jessica on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

thebreechbook.com

Get the temp drop at 30% off for the month of November with code AFHEHE at http://www.tempdrop.com/discount/AFHEHE

Ep. 397 Re-Air of The Safety of Breech Birth with Dr. Rixa Freeze Nov 12, 2025

Show notes

In this re-aired fan-favorite episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Dr. Rixa Freeze, research professor and president of Breech Without Borders, to challenge everything you think you know about breech birth. Together, they unpack the real facts, not the fear, behind breech birth, from what it actually is to the true statistics and why the right provider can change everything.

Dr. Freeze breaks down short- and long-term risks for both mom and baby, exposes how outdated research continues to shape today’s birth practices, and explains how upright birth positions can dramatically improve outcomes. You’ll also hear what’s really going on behind the scenes when families try to find breech-competent providers (and how to advocate when your baby’s got their own plans for positioning!).

Whether you’re currently expecting a breech baby or just want to be prepared for anything, this episode is packed with evidence, empowerment, and that signature HeHe honesty that helps you feel calm, confident, and in control of your birth choices.

Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of infant and maternal mortality statistics.

00:00 Introduction and Common Misconceptions About Breech Birth

00:52 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:01 Black Friday Sale Announcement

02:15 The Birth Lounge: Comprehensive Childbirth Education

04:48 Special Offers and Membership Perks

08:51 Exclusive Black Friday Deal Details

09:38 Re-airing Popular Episodes During Maternity Leave

10:51 Introduction to Breech Birth with Dr. Rixa Freeze

11:55 Understanding Breech Birth Basics

16:18 Safety and Risks of Breech Birth

25:46 Maternal and Long-term Outcomes of Breech Birth

29:24 Understanding Long-Term Effects of Birth Decisions

30:34 Insights on Preterm Breech Births

31:08 Discovering a Clean Brand: Just Ingredients

33:40 Hospital vs. Home Birth Data for Breech Births

36:47 Encouraging Breech Birth Training for Providers

42:53 Labor and Birth Positions for Breech Births

54:33 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Dr. Rixa Freeze holds a Ph.D. in American Studies from the University of Iowa and is an internationally recognized researcher, professor, and mother of four. As president of Breech Without Borders, a 501(c)3 nonprofit, she specializes in vaginal breech birth and advocates for autonomy and human rights in childbirth. Her work bridges history, research, and education to bring evidence-based, respectful care to every birth setting.

Dr. Rixa blogs at Stand and Deliver (rixarixa.blogspot.com) and is passionate about all things birth- and breastfeeding-related.

This is a re-air of episode 179 with Dr. Rixa Freeze, which you can find here:

https://podcast.thebirthlounge.com/e/ep-179-the-safety-of-breech-birth-with-rixa-freeze/

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Breech Without Borders on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Ep. 396 Twins Untangled: The Data Behind Safe Twin Birth with Dr. Stu Nov 07, 2025

Show notes

Ep. 396 Twins Untangled: The Data Behind Safe Twin Birth with Dr. Stu

In this week’s episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Dr. Stu Fischbein to unpack the truth about twin births, and it’s probably not what your provider has told you.

They dive into why C-sections have become the default for twins in the U.S. (hint: it’s not because it’s safer), and how our medical system continues to over-manage what can often be a normal variation of birth. Dr. Stu breaks down what’s really happening with rising twin pregnancies, how assisted reproductive technology plays a role, and why evidence still supports vaginal twin births when handled by skilled providers.

You’ll hear them talk about:
How to find a provider who’s actually experienced with vaginal twin births
The real deal on ECVs, breech twins, and what “mono-mono” and “mono-di” really mean
How to advocate for your birth plan even when you’re having multiples

If you’re expecting twins, or just want to understand how broken our twin birth system has become, this episode is your blueprint for making informed, confident choices and protecting your power in the birth room.

00:00 Introduction to Twin Births

01:07 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:14 Black Friday Sale Announcement

02:29 The Birth Lounge Overview

09:52 Special Guest: Dr. Stu Fischbein

10:21 Challenges and Misconceptions About Twin Births

11:25 Dr. Stu's Background and Expertise

12:48 Navigating Twin Births in the Medical System

14:15 The Importance of Informed Consent

15:51 Current Landscape of Twin Births

20:49 Training and Skills in Obstetrics

35:34 Risks and Realities of Twin Births

57:29 Legislation and Training in Midwifery

59:07 Economic Incentives in Birth Practices

01:00:16 Personal Experience with Baby Gear

01:03:31 Cost Analysis of C-Sections vs. Vaginal Births

01:04:50 Hospital Policies and C-Section Rates

01:08:44 Historical Perspective on Birth Practices

01:14:08 Twin Births: Hospital vs. Home

01:20:30 Challenges in Breech Deliveries

01:24:27 External Cephalic Version (ECV) Insights

01:30:42 Timing and Risks in Twin Deliveries

01:40:07 Final Thoughts and Advice for Expecting Mothers

Guest Bio:

Stuart J. Fischbein MD is a community-based obstetrician and an Associate of the American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology, published author of the book “Fearless Pregnancy, Wisdom & Reassurance from a Doctor, A Midwife and A Mom” and peer-reviewed papers Homebirth with an Obstetrician, A Series of 135 Out of Hospital Births and Breech birth at home: outcomes of 60 breech and 109 cephalic planned home and birth center births. After completing his residency at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles, CA, Dr. Stu spent 24 years assisting women with hospital birthing and, for the last 13 years, has been a homebirth obstetrician who works directly with midwives. Since retiring from attending home births in 2022, Dr. Stu has turned his focus to traveling around the world as a lecturer and advocate for reteaching breech & twin birth skills, respect for the normalcy of birth and honoring informed consent. He hosts a weekly podcast with co-host Blyss Young and together they offer hope, reassurance and safe, honest evidence supported choices for those women who understand pregnancy is a normal bodily function not to be feared. Follow him on Instagram @birthinginstincts. His websites are www.birthinginstincts.com & www.birthinginstinctspodcast.com

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Dr. Stu on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS/RESOURCES MENTIONED:

Check out our episode with Dr. Stu’s cohost, Blyss Young (ep. 232)

Listen to episode 179 with Dr. Rixa Freeze

Here’s a link to the Primitive Reflexes episode Dr. Stu references

https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0313941

www.birthinginstincts.com

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birthing-instincts/id1552816683

www.birthinginstinctspodcast.com

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30305050/

https://static1.squarespace.com/static/52ca1028e4b05c5f2d7b157d/t/62e02090874eae67b683bc67/1658855570428/A+Maneuver+for+Head+Entanglement+Published.pdf

Ep. 395 Fascia in Pregnancy with Katey Yurko Nov 05, 2025

Show notes

This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth, one of HeHe’s favorite things to have on hand for a comfy pregnancy and postpartum period! They’re also a great way to detox your home! Through November, you can stack code HEHE for up to 40% off holiday sale prices on the softest PJ’s, loungewear, gifts, or even new sheets to make your pregnancy and postpartum feel a little more luxurious: https://cozyearth.com/

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Katey from The Violet Fog to dive deep into one of the body’s most overlooked power players, your fascia. Katey breaks down what fascia actually is, why it matters for your mobility, lymphatic flow, and emotional well-being, and how to keep it happy and hydrated (yes, your fascia needs love too!).

Together, they chat about gentle movement, self-massage, red light therapy, and nutrient-rich hydration to keep your body flowing freely, especially during pregnancy. Plus, Katey shares her best tips for reducing swelling and creating beauty routines that actually support your body’s health from the inside out.

This convo is your permission slip to slow down, tune in, and treat your body like the powerhouse it is.

00:00 Introduction and Personal Experience with Fascia 01:00 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast 01:09 Black Friday Sale Announcement 02:23 The Birth Lounge Overview 03:17 The Control Method for Birth 04:09 Comprehensive Birth Preparation 04:55 Special Courses and Membership Perks 05:27 Secret Sauce to Pushing 06:20 Scripts for Advocacy and Additional Resources 06:56 Birthing Your Big Ass Baby Course 07:51 Lifetime Membership Birth Box 08:59 Black Friday Sale Details 09:47 Introduction to Today's Episode on Fascia 11:56 Understanding Fascia with Katie Yurko 12:59 Fascia Health and Daily Habits 22:35 Posture and Hydration for Fascia 25:20 Diet and Fascia Health 33:08 Kidney Function and Pregnancy 35:48 Simple Health Tweaks 36:38 Understanding Fascia Damage 37:11 Posture and Fascia Health 39:03 Self-Massage and Fascia Care 42:39 Lymphatic Health Tips 44:14 Managing Swelling During Pregnancy 49:33 Electrolytes and Cellular Health 53:16 Red Light Therapy Benefits 55:16 Adrenal Cocktails and Final Thoughts 56:20 Beauty and Health Connection 01:00:48 Conclusion and Farewell

Guest Bio:

Katie Yurko is the founder of The Violet Fog, where wellness gets real and women connect over love, nutrition hacks, and aging gracefully. A self-proclaimed “career investigator,” Katie digs deep into ingredients, health practices, and the hard stuff most people shy away from. After years of battling chronic UTIs and over 400 rounds of antibiotics, she turned her own health journey into a mission to expose false marketing and empower women with honest, no-fluff wellness education. Her content blends research and girl talk, pulling back the curtain on topics like gut health, thyroid conditions, and natural healing, all with a signature dose of wit and raw honesty.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Katey on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://www.violetfog.com/

https://www.lymphloveclub.com/

Check out our episode with Dr. Chris Motley for more about lymphatic drainage

HeHe and Katey also discuss some resources from Healthillie, you can hear our episode with her here.

YOUTUBE LINKS:

Connect with HeHe on YouTube.

EP. 394: The Vaxxed vs Unvaxxed Vaccine Debate with Dr. Joel Gator Warsh Oct 31, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Dr. Joel Gator Warsh, a pediatrician known for his refreshingly transparent and evidence-based approach to children’s health. Together, they unpack one of the most emotionally charged topics in parenting—vaccines.

HeHe and Dr. Gator talk openly about the gaps in vaccine research, the importance of truly informed consent, and what every parent deserves to understand before making decisions for their family. They explore everything from the new RSV vaccine and aluminum adjuvants to SIDS and medical ethics—all through the lens of curiosity, compassion, and critical thinking.

This isn’t about fear or finger-pointing—it’s about facts, trust, and empowering you to make confident, informed choices for your baby.

00:00 Introduction to Vaccine Debate

01:16 The Birth Lounge Podcast Introduction

01:23 Debunking the 'Big Baby' Myth

03:32 Introducing the 'Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby' Course

05:29 Vaccine Exploration Series Recap

05:50 In-Depth Vaccine Discussion with Dr. Joel Gator

07:46 Challenges in Vaccine Research and Public Trust

12:21 Ethics and Future of Vaccine Studies

45:42 Pushback Against Vaccines

46:18 The Need for Open Dialogue

47:30 Personal Experiences and Public Trust

50:16 Ethical Dilemmas in Pediatric Care

57:33 Herd Immunity and Vaccine Efficacy

01:06:13 The Quest for Clean Deodorant

01:13:14 Complexities of Vaccine Safety

01:19:35 Chronic Disease and Medical Humility

01:29:00 Questioning Vaccine Safety Standards

01:30:28 The Controversy of Vaccine Skepticism

01:33:09 The Need for Vaccinated vs. Unvaccinated Studies

01:39:31 SIDS and Vaccines: A Complex Relationship

01:46:07 Aluminum in Vaccines: Concerns and Debates

01:53:16 The New RSV Vaccine: What You Need to Know

02:01:03 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Guest Bio:

Joel Warsh aka DrJoelGator of the popular parenting Instagram account and substack is a Board-Certified Pediatrician in Los Angeles, California who specializes in Parenting, Wellness and Integrative Medicine. He is the author of multiple books including his latest, Between a Shot and a Hard Place: Tackling Difficult Vaccine Questions with Balance, Data, and Clarity,

He grew up in Toronto, Canada and completed a Master’s Degree in Epidemiology before earning his medical degree from Thomas Jefferson Medical College.

He completed his Pediatric Medicine training at Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles and then worked in private practice in Beverly Hills before founding his current practice, Integrative Pediatrics.

Dr. Gator has published research in peer-reviewed journals on topics including childhood injuries, obesity and physical activity.

He has been featured in numerous documentaries, films, summits, podcasts and articles.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Dr. Gator on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

✨ Pre-sale ends today for Birthing Your Big Ass Baby!

Get evidence-based guidance to birth your baby—no matter their size—with total confidence:

👉 https://www.thebirthlounge.com/bigbaby

LINKS / RESOURCES MENTIONED:

www.theshotbook.com

Listen to our vaccine series here

An inconvenient Study documentary

Ep. 393: How to Birth a 'Big Baby' without tearing or induction Solocast with HeHe Stewart Oct 29, 2025

Show notes

It’s the final week to grab Birthing Your Big Ass Baby at pre-sale pricing! Don’t miss your chance to ditch the fear, shut down the “too big” myths, and learn exactly how to birth your baby (no matter their size) with total confidence — all for the lowest price it’ll ever be.

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe is tackling one of the most common (and misunderstood) fears in birth: having a “big baby.” From those intimidating late-pregnancy ultrasounds to the “your baby might be too big” comments, she’s breaking down what’s actually evidence-based and what’s just outdated scare tactics.

Drawing from real DMs and community questions, HeHe pulls back the curtain on how baby size is estimated (spoiler: it’s often way off), what true macrosomia really means, and why the risks around shoulder dystocia are often exaggerated. She shares the birth positions, mindset shifts, and advocacy tools that help parents stay calm, confident, and in control, no matter what their provider says about baby’s size.

You’ll also hear about her brand new course, Birthing Your Big Ass Baby, created to help you ditch the fear, trust your body, and birth your baby (no matter their size) with total confidence.

Plus, HeHe chats about safe lubrication options from her friends at Coconu (get 30% off til 10/31 with code HEHE and 15% after that), the problem with hospital baby soaps (looking at you, Johnson & Johnson), and why upright labor + open-glottis pushing are total game changers for preventing trauma and protecting your pelvic floor.

This episode is your permission slip to stop fearing a “big baby” and start trusting the truth: your body was built for this.

00:00 Introduction: Your Body is Not Broken

00:57 Introducing the Course: Birthing Your Big Ass Baby

01:39 Debunking Myths About Big Babies

02:53 Understanding Shoulder Dystocia

04:11 Course Details and Benefits

05:08 Key Insights on Big Babies

17:31 Pushing Techniques and Hospital Practices

30:19 Informed Consent and Advocacy

37:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

SOCIAL MEDIA:

Connect with HeHe on Instagram

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

Grab Birthing Your Big Ass Baby at pre-sale pricing! Don’t miss your chance to ditch the fear, shut down the “too big” myths, and learn exactly how to birth your baby (no matter their size) with total confidence — all for the lowest price it’ll ever be.

Ep. 392: Nature vs. Nurture: Unlocking the Secrets of Parent-Child Attachment with Dr. Rocio Zunini Oct 24, 2025

Show notes

What actually shapes the way we connect with our babies? Our biology or our environment? In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with neuroscientist Dr. Rocio Zunini to unpack the wildly fascinating science of parenthood and attachment styles.

You’ll learn how your brain literally changes during pregnancy and parenting (yes, your brain rewires itself!), why nurturing is far more powerful than we ever realized, and how those early interactions shape lifelong emotional regulation and resilience.

Dr. Zunini breaks down groundbreaking research on how nurturing behavior in animals translates to humans, from secure to anxious, avoidant, and disorganized attachment styles and what that means for how we show up as parents.

They also dig into how mothers’ and fathers’ brains adapt differently, the critical role of “allo parents” (those loving caregivers beyond mom and dad), and how awareness and mindful connection can actually rewrite generational patterns.

If you’ve ever wondered how to raise emotionally secure, confident kiddos or how your own upbringing plays a role in the parent you’re becoming, this one’s a must-listen.

PSA for all my mamas worried about “big baby” talk:
Our brand new course — Pushing Out Your Big A** Baby is officially live and in pre-sale until November 1! This class busts through every scare tactic, lays out the real evidence, and gives you the exact tools to advocate for yourself with confidence (no matter how big your baby is). Grab your spot at thebirthlounge.com/bigbaby

00:00 The Impact of Environment on Development

01:40 Introduction to The Birth Lounge Podcast

01:58 Understanding Big Baby Myths

04:51 The Science of Attachment Styles

09:31 Interview with Dr. Rocio Zunini

11:19 The Importance of Parent-Child Bonding

22:51 Emotional Regulation and Brain Development

26:02 Balancing Work and Parenting

26:21 Differences Between Moms and Dads

31:56 Navigating Childhood Wounds and Parenting

33:31 Clean Living with Just Ingredients

37:23 Understanding Wounds and Resilience

38:58 The Concept of Orchid Genes

40:42 Exploring Attachment Styles

43:19 Breaking the Cycle of Insecure Attachment

47:45 Nature vs. Nurture Debate

48:29 The Impact of Nurture on Stress Systems

54:38 Gender Differences in Nurturing

01:00:35 The Role of Allo Parents

01:03:18 Adoption and Attachment

01:05:03 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Rocio is a neuroscientist and mother of two. She is the founder of Newborn Parents, which was born out of the fusion of her two passions: the brain and the relationship between parents and their infants. She educates parents and professionals about parental brain science so that they can take advantage of the profound brain changes that accompany mastrescence and patrescence. She is also co-directs and co-faciliates the Nurture Neuroscience Professional Certification along her friend and colleague Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Dr. Zunini on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Check out my brand new course Birthing Your Big Ass Baby

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://www.nurture-neuroscience.com/

www.newbornparents.net

Ep. 391 Why Babies Sleep Better Near Adults with Greer Kirshenbaum Oct 22, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most talked-about (and often misunderstood) topics in early parenthood SIDS and co-sleeping. Despite the scary warnings you’ve probably heard from the AAP or your pediatrician, many families still find themselves wondering how to safely sleep near their baby. And honestly? That’s a valid question.

We’ll explore what the research actually says about bedsharing, the science of a baby’s biological need for closeness, and how parents can make informed choices that balance safety and connection. You’ll hear about the work of James McKenna, Helen Ball, and La Leche League’s Sweet Sleep, plus insights from Sarah Ockwell-Smith that bring real-world practicality to this nuanced conversation.

If you’ve ever felt torn between expert advice and your natural instincts, this episode will help you find clarity, confidence, and calm in your family’s sleep choices.

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Safe Sleep Practices

01:18 Personal Story: Transforming a Mother's Sleep Routine

03:28 Newborn Sleep Solutions Guide

07:22 The Science Behind Newborn Sleep

09:06 Interview with Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum

17:07 Understanding Co-Sleeping and Bed Sharing

22:32 Safe Sleep Guidelines and SIDS

28:39 Controversial Topics: Vaccines and SIDS

31:06 Global Perspectives on Safe Sleep

35:22 Purity Coffee: A Healthier Choice

38:43 Addressing Sleep Challenges in Babies

42:16 Embracing Flexibility with a Newborn

44:04 The Importance of Nervous System Regulation

46:11 Building a Support System for New Moms

52:28 Debunking Myths About Newborn Habits

56:47 The Impact of Sleep Training on Mental Health

01:06:43 Tips for Optimal Baby Sleep

01:13:17 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Greer Kirshenbaum PhD is an Author, Neuroscientist, Doula, Infant and Family Sleep Specialist and Mother. She trained at the University of Toronto and Columbia University with additional training at New York University and Yale University. Greer has combined her academic training with her experience as a doula and mother to lead The Nurture Revolution. A movement to nurture our babies’ brains to revolutionize mental health and impact larger systems in our world. Greer wants families, professionals, and workplaces to understand how early caregiving experience can boost mental wellness and diminish depression, anxiety, and addiction in adulthood by shaping babies’ brains through simple intuitive enriching experiences in pregnancy, birth and infancy. Her book is called The Nurture Revolution: Grow Your Baby’s Brain and Transform Their Mental Health Through the Art of Nurtured Parenting. She offers resources, workshops, and coaching on her website www.nurture-neuroscience.com and on Instagram @drgreerkirshenbaum.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Dr. Greer on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:
www.nurture-neuroscience.com

Reviews of the research on SIDS and infant death

James McKenna: https://cosleeping.nd.edu/

Helen Ball: https://evolutionaryparenting.com/bed-sharing-and-co-sleeping-research-overview/

La Leche League's Sweet Sleep book: https://llli.org/resources/sweet-sleep/

Sarah Ockwell-Smith: https://sarahockwell-smith.com/

Ep. 390 Financially Planning for a Baby with Dan Brigham Oct 17, 2025

Show notes

This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth, our go-to for buttery-soft, temperature-regulating bamboo sheets and loungewear that actually lasts. Cozy Earth products are made from responsibly sourced materials that keep you cool, cozy, and comfortable through pregnancy, postpartum, and all the snuggly moments in between.

Use code HEHE for an exclusive discount at cozyearth.com and treat yourself to the comfort you deserve.

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe dives into one of the most overlooked parts of preparing for parenthood, financial stability. While the world loves to scare you about “big babies” and sell you all the baby gear under the sun, HeHe and her guest, Dan Brigham (aka Budgeters Anonymous), are here to help you focus on what actually matters: building a strong financial foundation for your growing family.

Together, they unpack the sneaky expenses new parents often overlook, smart budgeting strategies that actually work, and how intentional planning can bring more peace and less panic to your postpartum season. Dan shares his journey of overcoming debt, creating financial freedom, and shifting the mindset from “surviving” to thriving.

They also get real about emergency funds, 529 plans, IRAs for kids, and how to get on the same financial page with your partner.

This is the money talk every parent needs: judgment-free, empowering, and designed to help you build the future your family deserves.

00:00 Introduction: Financial Stability for New Parents

00:49 The Myth of the Big Baby

01:31 Understanding Macrosomia and Birth Advocacy

03:05 Introducing the New Course: Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby

03:27 Pre-Sale Announcement and Course Details

05:01 Budgeting for a Baby: An Essential Guide

05:45 Meet Dan Brigham: Budgeting Expert

08:25 Defining Financial Responsibility

12:22 Good Debt vs. Bad Debt

15:52 Intentional Spending and Budgeting Frameworks

23:34 Making a Baby Budget: Practical Tips

32:33 The Reality of Social Media and Financial Comparisons

35:31 No Spend Weekends: Finding Purpose Beyond Money

38:10 Nesting Instincts and Cozy Earth

41:06 Budgeting for a Baby

44:03 Emergency Funds and Financial Priorities

47:15 Setting Up Financial Accounts for Your Child

51:45 Tracking Expenses and Budgeting Tools

58:59 Mindsets for Financial Success

01:06:57 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

Guest Bio:

Dan is the founder of Budgeters Anonymous and has free resources on his website. Dan’s focus is Faith, Fitness, Family and Finance.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Dan on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

LINKS MENTIONED:

Find Dan here: budgetersanonymous.com

Ep. 389 Exploring Vaccine Ingredients with an Infectious Disease Scientist Oct 15, 2025

Show notes

In this powerful episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with infectious disease scientist, Ellie to pull back the curtain on what’s really behind vaccines, immunity, and medical ethics. After years working in big pharma, Ellie began questioning what she saw from the inside, and now she’s here to help parents unpack the complex, often confusing world of vaccine science through an evidence-based, transparent lens.

Together, HeHe and Ellie dive into everything from the ingredients found in common vaccines (and why they’re there!) to the differences between live and attenuated viruses. They also explore the ethics of vaccine research, including the use of fetal cell lines, vaccinated vs. unvaccinated clinical trials, and how informed consent fits into modern medicine.

This conversation isn’t about fear, it’s about facts. It’s about asking better questions, understanding your options, and feeling confident in the choices you make for your family’s health. Ellie brings scientific clarity, a refreshing dose of honesty, and a deep respect for parental autonomy to this nuanced conversation.

If you’ve ever wanted a clearer understanding of vaccines and the ethics behind them, this episode is a must-listen.

03:27 Announcing the New Course: Pushing Out Your Big Ass Baby

05:34 Vaccine Exploration Series Finale

06:19 Ingredients in Vaccines: What You Need to Know

07:35 Interview with Infectious Disease Scientist Ellie

12:11 Ellie's Journey from Big Pharma to Vaccine Skepticism

40:44 Ethical and Scientific Concerns in Vaccine Development

01:02:33 Pharmaceutical Interactions and Clinical Trials

01:04:28 Autonomy and Vaccine Mandates

01:05:17 Herd Immunity and Vaccine Efficacy

01:06:38 Transparency and Trust in Healthcare

01:15:49 Ethics of Vaccine Studies

01:19:12 Challenges in Scientific Research

01:23:55 Vaccine Ingredients and Allergies

01:26:42 Live vs. Attenuated Vaccines

01:29:49 Shingles and Vaccine History

01:33:43 Scientific Communication and Public Trust

01:43:08 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Ellie is an infectious disease scientist with a powerful personal story and a passion for making science accessible. With a B.S. in Cellular and Molecular Biology and an M.S. in Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Ellie has spent years on the front lines of science—from developing vaccines for potential bioweapons during her graduate research to working in assay development and infectious disease research within the pharmaceutical industry.

Four years ago, she made the bold decision to step away from pharma and pursue a path that blends science, personal experience, and public education. Ellie was born with a left radial clubbed hand, congenital heart issues, and other challenges caused by a pharmaceutical product—an experience that has shaped her unique perspective on medicine. After undergoing countless surgeries, she deeply understands the life-saving value of western medicine, while also recognizing that alternatives can have a place in care.

Ellie now dedicates herself to helping people understand complex scientific topics so they can make empowered, informed health decisions. She believes that her journey—both scientific and deeply personal—is no accident. Through all the challenges she has faced, she’s seen the hand of Jesus guiding her path and believes God has kept her alive for a greater purpose.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Ellie on IG

BIRTH EDUCATION:

Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

RESOURCES MENTIONED:

https://cogforlife.org/

https://www.cellosaurus.org/ You can search a variety of ways in the site, but one is 'browse by group' and click 'Vaccine production cell lines'

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