The Birth Lounge Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Ep. 278: Drowning Prevention: Essential Water Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know with Tyler Bradshaw, CWSI Jul 17, 2024

Show notes

Join HeHe and Tyler Bradshaw from Aqua Tots as they dive deep into the crucial topic of water safety for children. This episode covers alarming drowning statistics, the importance of swim lessons from as young as four months, and practical advice for preventing drowning incidents. Tyler shares expert insights on floatation devices, the role of water watchers, appropriate bath suit colors, and safe pool practices for homes and communities. This is an essential episode for all parents and caregivers to keep their kids safe around water in all settings year round.

The Importance of Water Safety

Drowning Statistics and Prevention

Understanding Different Types of Drowning

The Role of Swim Lessons

Common Places for Drowning

Dry Drowning Explained

The Dangers of Distractions

Water Wings and Flotation Devices

Tips for Parents with Multiple Children at the Pool

Home Pool Safety

Ensuring Pool Safety: Skimmer Baskets and Barriers

Water Safety Analogies: Highway and Pool

The Importance of Swim Lessons for Children

Starting Swim Lessons Early: Building Muscle Memory

Overcoming Fear of Water in Young Children

Swim Lesson Levels: From Babies to Competent Swimmers

Swim Lesson Curriculum: Skills and Progression

Choosing the Right Swimwear for Safety

Guest Bio:

Tyler, owner of Aqua-Tots Swim School Norwood is passionate about childhood water safety! Aqua-Tots was founded in 1991 and headquartered in the Phoenix area, Aqua-Tots Swim Schools is making waves as the largest international provider of year-round, indoor swim instruction, community outreach and drowning prevention education. Its trusted program is dedicated to children of all abilities from four months to 12 years old and features a proven curriculum used to teach more than five million swim lessons each year. Aqua-Tots is recognized in Franchise Business Review’s Top 100 Franchises for Women in 2024, Entrepreneur's Top 15 Children’s Franchises of 2023, Entrepreneur’s Franchise 500®, Inc. Magazine's Top 5000 and Franchise Times’ Top 200. Aqua-Tots has more than 150 locations in 25 states across 14 countries and is rapidly expanding with 90 locations in development.

Social Media:

Connect with HeHe on Instagram

Connect with Aqua-Tots on IG

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!

LINKS MENTIONED:

Connect with Tyler at Norwood Aqua-Tots here!

Find an Aqua-Tots near you!

Key words:

Water Safety, Drowning Prevention, Kids Swim Lessons, Swimming Tips for Parents, Water Safety Tips, Child Swim Lessons, Summer Safety Tips, Pool Safety Tips, Accident Prevention, Water Safety Month, Child Safety

Ep. 277: HBA3 C Birth Story with Racquel Hernandez Jul 12, 2024

Show notes

Join HeHe in an inspiring conversation with Raquel as she shares her incredible journey from multiple cesarean sections to achieving a successful vaginal birth after three cesareans (VBA3C) in a home setting. Raquel discusses the importance of taking control of birth decisions, questioning standard practices, and finding the confidence to push back against a system that often prioritizes medical convenience over individual empowerment. Tune in for a deep dive into the challenges and triumphs of birthing with autonomy and the transformative power it holds for mothers. Don't miss this pivotal episode filled with personal stories, expert insights, and practical advice for expecting mothers and birth advocates.

Raquel's First Birth Experience
Navigating VBAC Challenges
Meeting Dr. Stuart Fishbein
Preparing for the Fourth Birth
Labor and Delivery at Home
Unexpected Sensations and Initial Fears
Support and Reassurance from the Doula
Smooth Sailing and Birth Experience
Challenges and Emotional Disconnect
Reflecting on Birth Choices and Statistics
Empowerment and Advocacy in Birth
Advice for Expectant Mothers from Racquel

Guest Bio:

Raquel is a mother of four, ages 2, 5, 18, and 20. Together with her husband, she raises her family in Southern California. Raquel has a regular 9-5, but her superhero self works doing her soul work into the night supporting Goddess Blyss and Dr. Stu with the Birthing Instincts Podcast. In 2021 Dr. Stu supported Raquel’s 4th pregnancy, a breech HBA3C. It was life changing and has been a dream come true to be able to work along side him and especially Goddess Blyss in birth work, and spreading awareness to birth choices and the beauty of birth. Raquel is now a birth doula and teaches birth education classes with her husband.

Social Media:

Connect with HeHe on Instagram

Connect with Raquel on IG

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!

Ep. 276: Surviving Amniotic Fluid Embolism with Kayleigh Summers, LCSW Jul 10, 2024

Show notes

HeHe is joined with Kayleigh Summers, or The Birth Trauma Mama, to discuss a rare but serious pregnancy complication known as Amniotic Fluid Embolism. This episode dives into what causes AFE, the signs & symptoms plus what Kayleigh's healing process looked like after her experience. You will also hear questions and discussions to have with your provider if you have risk factors that increase your chances of experiencing AFE or if you're curious how your hospital would manage an event such as AFE in your birth. This episode mentions birth trauma, maternal death and fetal demise so please be kind with yourself and listen when you're in a safe space to consume this kind of content.

JOIN THE BIRTH LOUNGE

Guest Bio:

Kayleigh Summers is an Amniotic Fluid Embolism survivor who shares her birth story as a way to be a space that women that safety learn about & heal from birth trauma. Some of you may follow her on social media where she is known as the birth trauma mama. Kayleigh is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and owns a private practice where she educates and supports those who have experienced perinatal trauma! She also has a podcast called the birth trauma mama podcast and she hosts small groups for people who are looking for birth trauma support!

CONNECT WITH KAYLEIGH

Website

Podcast

CONNECT WITH HEHE

Work with HeHe

LINKS MENTIONED:

https://afesupport.org/

https://www.uptodate.com/contents/amniotic-fluid-embolism

https://obgconnect.com/library/2020/01/31/amniotic-fluid-embolism-afe/

Ep. 275: How to Support a Friend Experiencing Loss with Sarah Lingle Jul 05, 2024

Show notes

In this heartfelt episode, HeHe and Sarah Lingle discuss the sensitive topics of infertility, pregnancy loss, and the emotional and psychological impacts they have. The conversation covers statistics on infertility and miscarriage, personal experiences with loss, and the ways to support a friend who has experienced pregnancy loss. Sarah shares valuable insights on how to talk about loss, the importance of normalizing these discussions, and the resources available for those going through these difficult times.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to better understand and support friends, family, or clients dealing with pregnancy loss.

Understanding Infertility and Loss Statistics
Stigma and Sharing About Loss
Emotional Responses to Loss
Postpartum Care After Loss
Support and Resources for Bereaved Parents
TFMR Community and Support
How to Support Friends Experiencing Loss
A Friend's Support During Miscarriage
Memorializing Lost Babies
The Emotional Complexity of Pregnancy After Loss
Navigating Triggers and Boundaries
Connecting with Sarah and Final Thoughts

Guest Bio:

Sarah is the host of The PAL Doula Podcast, and owner of The Pregnancy After Loss Doula, both of which exist to give help and hope to moms navigating pregnancy after loss. She’s a mom to Peanut, who died before birth, and to J, her earthside rainbow baby. When she’s not talking about birth, you can usually find her hiking to a nearby waterfall with my family!

Instagram:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Sarah 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://pregnancyafterlossdoula.com/
Use code Podcast10 to get listeners 10% off of any of Sarah’s offers

https://anchor.fm/thepalpod

https://littlesantidesigns.co.uk/

https://stillbirthday.com/

https://www.gatheringhope.net/timely-tender-tote-1

https://miscarriagehopedesk.org/

https://www.thecomfortcub.org/

Ep. 274: Understanding Placenta Health to Prevent Stillbirth with Dr. Heather Florescue, OBGYN Jul 03, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Heather Florescue to discuss the vital but often overlooked topic of stillbirth prevention. Dr. Florescue introduces the concept of placental health, the importance of measuring estimated placental volume, and the role this plays in ensuring healthy pregnancies. We dive deep into the current research, debunk myths, and highlight the significance of understanding risk factors and maternal instincts. Dr. Florescue also shares insights on protocols followed in the UK and Australia that could help reduce stillbirth rates. Tune in to learn why education and proactive healthcare can save lives.

Guest Bio:

Dr. Florescue is an ob.gyn. in private practice at Women Gynecology and Childbirth Associates in Rochester, N.Y. She delivers babies at Highland Hospital in Rochester, NY. She received her medical degree at the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, completed her internship and residency in obstetrics & gynecology at the University of Rochester Medical Center. She is certified by the American Congress of Obstetrics & Gynecology. She and her husband are parents to a set of triplets. Dr. Florescue is passionate about the prevention of pregnancy and infant loss and the care for families who suffer these terrible tragedies.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Dr. Florescue 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:

Star Legacy Foundation

Count the Kicks

PUSH Pregnancy

Tommys.org

Saving Babies Lives Care Bundles

Ep. 273: Electronic Fetal Monitoring with L&D RN, Caitlyn Schollmeier Jun 13, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, HeHe is joined by Caitlyn Schollmeier to discuss electronic fetal monitoring. They cover what electronic fetal monitoring is, why it is used, differences between continuous and intermittent monitoring, and various related topics. They also explore the implications of different monitoring choices on labor and delivery, including how interventions like Pitocin and epidurals require monitoring and tips for how different monitoring methods might affect movement and comfort during labor.

In this episode, we’re diving into the following questions:

When providers often use each type of monitoring and why they may use continuous monitoring more often.

How long are the breaks during intermittent monitoring?

What types of monitoring are best for low risk labors versus more complicated pregnancies?

What helps when we start to see wonky fetal heartones?

So what are some scenarios where you would want electronic fetal monitoring?

Guest Bio:

Caitlyn Schollmeier is a former birth doula and labor & delivery nurse. She created Lila, a maternity brand that specializes in creating beautiful and comfortable labor clothing that provides privacy while still being accessible for routine medical care. Lila has 4 different styles of birth gown that all provide access for fetal heart monitoring, skin to skin, breastfeeding, massage, epidural placement and more.

Social Media:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Caitlyn on Instagram

Connect with Caitlyn on TikTok

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:

Birth Gown (use code BIRTHLOUNGE15 to save 15% off): https://www.wearlila.com/

ACOG stance on EFM: https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/fetal-heart-rate-monitoring-during-labor

https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2010/11/management-of-intrapartum-fetal-heart-rate-tracings

https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2021/06/antepartum-fetal-surveillance

Ep. 272: How to Choose the Right Car Seat & Stroller with Jami Reyes Jun 08, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, HeHe welcomes Jami Reyes, owner of Hip Baby Gear, to discuss essential baby gear. They delve into topics like how to choose car seats and strollers, considerations for different lifestyles, safety tips, and practical advice for parents. Additionally, they cover the pros and cons of popular brands and offer insights into making informed decisions to meet individual needs.

In this episode, we’re diving into the following questions:

What should people be thinking about in terms of the weight and durability of strollers?

What are we actually looking for in a car seat?

What type of car seats are out there and who they might be best appropriate for from newborn all the way up to big kids in car seats?

What do we need to consider when it comes to thinking about the usage of our car seat and our stroller system and multiple cars?

What’s the installation process like for car seats?

I want to add a mirror and I want to have a camera and I want to have the window covers but are mirrors, cameras, toys, and window covers safe for Baby?

How to dress baby in car seats safely.

Take a listen to learn about…

Choosing the Right Stroller

Considering Your Terrain

The Weight and Durability of Strollers

Car Seat Safety and Installation

Types of Car Seats

The Importance of Proper Installation

Dealing with Accessories and Clothing

Most Frequently Asked Questions including is the Nuna and the Vista stroller systems really worth it and is the Doona safe?

Guest Bio:

Jami Reyes is the owner of Hip Baby Gear, in the Marblehead Old Town District. Jami and her husband took over the store in 2016. They had been living in Marblehead for a few years and had their son and loved the idea of not only working locally but being a part of the community in a larger way. HBG has been such an integral partner to local families not only in education but as a way for families to connect. HBG provides an experience unlike any in the area. You can let the little ones play in the back while you grab a coffee or sometimes mimosa and chat! If you are expecting they help with registries, baby must-haves or even offer a little guidance or support.

Instagram:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Hip Baby Gear 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:

Hipbabygear.com

https://www.luvbugcompany.com/collections/all-towels

https://www.amazon.com/Luv-Bug-Company-Sunscreen-Towel/dp/B08XPVPSR2

Buckle me baby coats: https://www.bucklemecoats.com/

Ep. 271: How to Potty Train from Birth with Heather Medlin Jun 05, 2024

Show notes

Heather is a professional architect, entrepreneur, and mother of two three and under. Her passion for sustainability and frustration with traditionally potty training her oldest led her to try Elimination Communication with her second baby. With her youngest using the potty at 5 weeks and able to take HERSELF by 12 months, Heather is now on a mission to show new and expecting parents everywhere what is possible and how they too can naturally potty train their babies from as early as birth.

As the host of the Ready From Birth Community, she brings together EC parents from all over the world so they can relax and enjoy the journey to early toilet independence without ever having to navigate the roadblocks alone.

The Ready From Birth Course launched in May 2024, so new and expecting parents can get all the information they need to start EC and have their baby toilet independent as early as walking!

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!

Instagram:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Heather on IG

Links:

Heather’s Community: community.readyfrombirth.com

Heather’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@readyfrombirth

The Huckleberry app is mentioned as a tool to track your baby’s elimination schedule

Ep. 270: Maternity leave laws in the US with Attorney Ryan Stygar May 31, 2024

Show notes

HeHe is joined by a Labor & Employment Lawyer and CEO of Centurion Trial Attorney to discuss maternity leave laws in the United States. Ryan shares what rights pregnant people have, when to share the big news with your boss & what's the minimum lawful amount of time off you're entitled to when you have a baby? We also cover what to do if you experience retaliation and how to protect your job while you are on maternity leave.

In this episode, we’re diving into the following questions:

How am I supposed to leave work?

How early do I tell them?

When am I supposed to tell them?

What legal rights do I have?

What if they say I don't get paid?

How am I supposed to make this work financially?

What do I do about the insurance?

Take a listen to learn all about the Family Medical Leave Act ( FMLA ), what questions your employer can and can’t ask you, your rights in the workplace as a pregnant person, your rights in the workplace as a pumping mom, and more!

Guest Bio:

Ryan is a former firefighter who spent four years battling California's wildfires.

Ryan is recognized as a leading voice in the field of Labor & Employment law. He has gained a massive following on TikTok as @AttorneyRyan aka "The Labor Lawyer." Through his videos, Ryan empowers employees and small businesses by educating them about the law and worker's rights.

Ryan is a recognized thought-leader in the field of criminal procedure and civil trial practice. He has authored multiple books on the subjects of law, civil trial procedure, and wealth-creating strategies. In his spare time, Ryan also writes crime fiction for adults and educational fiction for children. Ryan graduated Magna Cum Laude from California Western School of Law in San Diego, California.

Instagram:

Connect with Ryan on IG

Ryan's Website

Connect with HeHe 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://edd.ca.gov/paidfamilyleave

https://www.eeoc.gov/

https://www.dol.gov/

https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/disability/jobaccommodations

https://www.centuriontrialattorneys.com/lawyer-exposes-classic-hr-trap-that-destroys-harassment-cases

https://www.centuriontrialattorneys.com/ryan-stygar-helps-pregnant-women-protect-themselves-from-discrimination

YOUTUBE LINKS:

Connect with HeHe on YouTube

Ep. 269: Your Legal Rights in Labor with Marlie Willer, May 29, 2024

Show notes

HeHe and Birth Injury Lawyer, Marlie, dive deep into how legality intersects with maternity care. Join this conversation to hear about your rights as a patient, what you can and can't say 'no' to in labor and what leaving 'AMA' really means! Marlie also breaks down what type of allegations are most commonly brought against OB's and how top down pressure from insurance companies and hospital systems impact patient care and outcomes! This is such an amazing episode!

Bio:

Marlie H. Willer is an experienced trial lawyer that has dedicated her practice to 100% litigation. Marlie focuses her practice on medical malpractice, with a particular emphasis in obstetric negligence. She has successfully litigated hundreds of brachial plexus cases across the country.

Connect with Marlie on IG

C onnect with Marlie Here

Download Scripts for Advocacy!

Connect with HeHe on IG

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 in your App Store --for Android & Apple

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