Unswaddled

160: You Don’t Have to Like Your Newborn: Normalizing the Hard Parts of Motherhood with NAPS Mom Ellie Mar 02, 2025

Join us as we sit down with Ellie Rinnick, a longtime NAPS client, Moms Together founder, and fellow romance novel enthusiast, to have a brutally honest conversation about postpartum, newborn life, and the expectations placed on new moms. Ellie shares how she struggled to connect with her newborn, why the idea that motherhood is “natural” set her up for failure, and how finding community changed everything.

Motherhood isn’t all baby snuggles and magical moments—sometimes, it’s wondering if you’ll ever sleep again, texting your best friend “What have we done?”, and crying over your nipples. And that’s okay.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• Why you don’t have to like your newborn—and why that doesn’t make you a bad mom

• The myth that postpartum is “natural” and why that mindset sets moms up to struggle

• The moment Ellie realized she actually liked her baby (hint: it took weeks)

• The guilt of not feeling how you’re “supposed” to feel after birth

• How finding a community of moms helped Ellie navigate postpartum struggles

• Reframing expectations for motherhood—because not every moment is magical

Key Takeaway:

• There’s no manual for motherhood—but having real conversations like this one makes it a little easier.

Resources & Mentions:

• Moms Together – Ellie’s in-person support groups for moms in the Milton, MA area

• NAPS Support Groups – Virtual and in-person groups to help parents feel less alone

• Mother Brain by Chelsea Conaboy – A book about how becoming a parent changes your brain

• Ellie’s Podcast: Day in Her Life – Where Ellie interviews women about the details of their daily lives

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

159: Rebranding Motherhood: Postpartum, Mental Health and Body Literacy with NAPS Mom Tina Feb 23, 2025

In this episode of the Unswaddled Podcast, Emily and Jamie sit down with Tina Cartwright, founder of Rebranding Motherhood, to have a no-BS conversation about postpartum struggles, body literacy, and the massive gaps in support for new parents. Tina shares her raw and real experience with postpartum depression after both of her children, how she learned to advocate for herself in the healthcare system, and why she’s on a mission to change the way we talk about motherhood.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• The reality of postpartum depression—how it looked different with each of Tina’s kids

• The importance of body literacy—why tracking your cycle and understanding hormones can be life-changing

• The myth of "bouncing back"—Tina shares the truth about postpartum recovery and how long it really takes

• How she created Rebranding Motherhood to bring real, unfiltered parenting conversations to the forefront

• What support actually looks like—beyond baby registries and cute nursery decor

Key Takeaways:

"Motherhood is sold to us in a way that is completely sanitized—and that’s a problem." Tina explains why the way we prepare parents for postpartum is failing us, and what needs to change

"Your body takes YEARS to recover postpartum—not weeks." Understanding your body is key to healing, and no one teaches you how to do that

"It takes a village—but sometimes, you have to build your own." Tina shares how she redefined what support looked like when traditional help wasn’t available

Resources Mentioned:

• Rebranding Motherhood – Curated by Tina Cartwright, founder of Rebranding Motherhood, this deeply engaging and highly connected membership brings together expert-led resources, real-time support, and an unshakable community of moms who truly get it. https://www.rebrandingmotherhood.co/member-site-homepage-1

• Pelvic Guru – A resource for finding pelvic floor physical therapists

• NAPS Support Groups – Postpartum support and education for parents

• Mother Brain by Chelsea Conaboy – A must-read book on how parenthood changes the brain

Listen now for a brutally honest, deeply insightful conversation on what it really means to recover postpartum. This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

158: Hypnobirthing, Mindfulness, and Positive Parenting with NAPS Mom Phoebe Feb 16, 2025

In this episode of the Unswaddled Podcast, Emily and Jamie sit down with long-time client and mom of two, Phoebe Goldsberry. Phoebe shares her transformative journey into motherhood, including her experiences with hypnobirthing, navigating postpartum life with two young children, and finding positivity in the chaos of parenting.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Phoebe’s Story: Learn how Phoebe's hypnobirthing journey shaped her labor experiences with her two boys, Graham and Miles, and why she became a passionate advocate for this approach.

• The Power of Hypnobirthing: Discover how hypnobirthing works, how it helped Phoebe embrace her natural instincts, and why she recommends it to every expecting parent (yes, even dads!).

• Navigating Differences: Phoebe opens up about the stark contrasts between her two pregnancies and births and how she adapted her parenting approach to meet each child's unique needs.

• Mindfulness in Parenting: Explore how Phoebe applies mindfulness techniques from hypnobirthing to everyday parenting challenges and why she believes positivity is a superpower for moms.

• Let’s Talk Comparison: Hear Phoebe’s honest take on the inevitable comparisons between siblings and how she stays grounded in meeting her kids as individuals.

• Practical Self-Care: From 15-minute resets to creative ways of combining self-care with parenting, Phoebe shares her go-to tips for avoiding burnout.

Resources Mentioned:

• Hypnobirthing: The Mongan Method: Phoebe’s top book recommendation for expecting parents.

• NAPS Pre-Baby Bootcamp: Mindfulness and labor preparation led by Sarah Harmon, a licensed mental health counselor and yoga instructor.

• Wayne Dyer’s Teachings: Inspiration for shifting mindset and embracing positivity. Key Takeaways:

• "You're going to find what you're looking for." Phoebe’s mantra for seeking positivity in parenting and life.

• Mind over body: Trusting your instincts and allowing your body to do what it’s naturally designed for can transform the birthing experience.

• Comparison is the thief of joy: Focus on your unique journey instead of measuring yourself against others.

Whether you’re a first-time mom, preparing for your second, or simply curious about hypnobirthing and mindful parenting, this episode offers relatable stories, actionable tips, and a fresh perspective on embracing the highs and lows of motherhood.

Tune in for inspiration, laughs, and a little dose of positivity to brighten your day!

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

157: Navigating Infertility, Prematurity, and Postpartum Chaos with NAPS Mom Haya Feb 09, 2025

In this episode of the Unswaddled Podcast, Emily and Jamie sit down with Haya, a mom of two-year-old twins, to discuss her journey through unexplained infertility, a challenging twin pregnancy, NICU life, and postpartum recovery. Haya’s candid storytelling is both raw and inspiring, offering valuable insights for anyone navigating the highs and lows of parenthood.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Haya’s Fertility Journey: Battling unexplained infertility, experiencing multiple miscarriages, and enduring five rounds of IUI before success with IVF.

• The Reality of a Twin Pregnancy: From navigating migraines, nausea, and late-stage complications like preeclampsia to managing the uncertainty of delivering early.

• NICU Life: The emotional and logistical challenges of caring for premature twins and the support systems that made it manageable.

• Postpartum Struggles: The first year as a twin mom, the impact on her mental health, and her husband’s journey through anxiety and OCD symptoms.

• Building Community: How Haya leaned on a robust medical network, virtual support groups, and friends to get through the hardest year of her life.

• Starting "Our Gathering Place": Haya shares how her experiences inspired her to create inclusive support groups for parents of multiples.

Resources Mentioned:

• All Paths Family Building: A nonprofit organization offering support groups for families navigating infertility and parenthood.

• Keeping Pace Multiples Support Group: A nonprofit providing resources like diapers, formula, and community support for parents of twins and triplets.

• Our Gathering Place: Haya’s business, offering inclusive support groups for parents, with a focus on families of multiples. Website: ourgathering.place newsletter sign up link: https://www.ourgathering.place/newsletter-sign-up

Key Takeaways:

• "You need a village, and it doesn’t have to look traditional." Haya explains how creating a support network, including friends in different time zones, helped her husband cope with postpartum anxiety.

• Be proactive about mental health: Both Haya and her husband leaned on therapists, psychiatrists, and support groups to navigate the intense emotional and physical toll of parenting twins.

• Support changes everything: Haya highlights the importance of asking for help—from medical professionals, friends, or even strangers—when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

• This episode is a must-listen for parents of multiples, those navigating infertility, or anyone curious about how to support a loved one through postpartum challenges. Haya’s humor and resilience will leave you inspired and empowered to build the village you need.

Tune in now for this honest, heartfelt conversation. Link in bio!

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

156: From Miscarriage to Motherhood: IVF, Postpartum Challenges, and Building Your Village with NAPS Mom Jenna Feb 02, 2025

In this episode of the Unswaddled Podcast, Emily and Jamie chat with longtime client Jenna, who shares her incredible journey through miscarriage, IVF, postpartum recovery, and her experience of building a support system as a mom of two. Jenna’s raw honesty and humor provide both inspiration and practical takeaways for every parent navigating the highs and lows of motherhood.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Jenna’s Story: From early pregnancy loss to a complicated IVF journey and eventually becoming a mom to two boys under three years old.

• Postpartum Challenges: Jenna opens up about navigating pelvic floor issues, recognizing prolapse symptoms, and her journey to pelvic floor physical therapy.

• IVF Realities: The emotional and physical toll of multiple rounds of IVF and Jenna’s decision to take a break to prioritize her mental health.

• Building Your Village: How Jenna found her “mom tribe” through support groups, including NAPS, and why she believes every parent deserves a village—even if it looks unconventional.

• Pelvic Health Awareness: Jenna’s candid reflections on postpartum constipation, prolapse symptoms, and the importance of seeking help when something feels off.

• Parenting Wisdom: Why she says, "Don’t move your toddler to a big kid bed too early!" and other advice for navigating sibling dynamics with young children.

Resources Mentioned:

• Pelvic Guru: A resource to find pelvic floor physical therapists near you. www.pelvicglobal.com

• NAPS Groups: Jenna shares how her support groups became a lifeline and helped her feel less alone.

• Centrality Wellness: Jenna’s recommended pelvic floor PT in Guilford and New Canaan, CT.

• The Vagina Coach: An educational resource Jenna found helpful for learning about pelvic health. Key Takeaways:

• "It’s common, but it’s not normal." Jenna discusses the importance of addressing postpartum symptoms like leaking, constipation, or prolapse, and why they shouldn’t be ignored.

• Building an intentional village: Support doesn’t have to come from family - it can come from groups, friends, or even virtual communities.

• Taking care of yourself matters: Jenna shares how learning to prioritize her own health alongside her kids' needs was a game-changer.

This episode is packed with humor, relatability, and valuable advice for moms at any stage of their journey. Jenna’s openness about her challenges and triumphs will leave you feeling seen, heard, and inspired to take care of yourself.

Tune in now for an honest, unfiltered conversation about parenting, postpartum recovery, and everything in between. Link in bio!

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

155: A Rollercoaster Journey: NICU, Prematurity, and Transitioning from One to Two Kids with NAPS Mom Sarah Jan 26, 2025

In this heartfelt episode of the Unswaddled Podcast, Emily and Jamie welcome Sarah, a mom of two, who shares her deeply personal story of navigating a high-risk pregnancy, a NICU stay, and the challenges of transitioning from one to two children. Sarah’s story highlights resilience, the importance of support systems, and the complexities of parenting through unexpected challenges.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• Sarah’s Journey: From her water breaking at 29 weeks to a month-long antepartum stay and a NICU journey with her daughter, Ella.

• High-Risk Pregnancy Challenges: The emotional and logistical hurdles of being on antepartum while parenting a toddler at home.

• NICU Realities: Balancing time between home and the hospital, coping with feeding challenges, and leaning on incredible NICU nurses.

• Transitioning to Two Kids: The wild reality of splitting time, love, and energy between a newborn and a toddler.

• The Unexpected Emotional Toll: Sarah opens up about guilt, anxiety, and how she managed the emotional and physical recovery post-birth.

• Support Systems: Practical advice on utilizing family, friends, and resources for both emotional and logistical help during tough times.

Resources Mentioned:

• Veteran Mom Survival Guide: A course by NAPS to help parents navigate the challenges of multiple children.

• Pelvic Physical Therapy: Sarah reflects on how this could have improved her postpartum recovery. Key Takeaways:

• "Two things can be true." Sarah reflects on the duality of wanting her baby home while understanding the importance of keeping her safe in the NICU.

• The power of peer support: How connecting with other parents in similar situations can provide validation and encouragement.

• Kids are resilient: Sarah’s reminder that even amidst challenges, young children adapt more than we give them credit for.

This episode is a must-listen for parents navigating high-risk pregnancies, NICU stays, or the transition to parenting multiple children. Sarah’s vulnerability and honesty will resonate with anyone who’s felt overwhelmed yet determined to make it through.

Tune in to hear her incredible journey, gain insights, and find comfort knowing you’re not alone.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

154: Summer Send-Off: Inside Emily and Jamie's Daily Routines Jul 14, 2024

Jamie and Emily celebrate their last podcast episode before their summer break by discussing a highly requested topic- their daily routines! They emphasize both the similarities and the differences in their parenting styles, and how this plays out in their day to day schedules. Emily starts out by discussing her mornings and the challenges of dealing with an early-rising toddler, while Jamie talks about her more relaxed mornings and the benefits of having older, more independent children. They delve into mealtimes, and the strategies of ordering out and letting kids watch TV during meals vs eating together as a family. Emily and Jamie then discuss their bedtime routines, highlighting the different routes they each take with their children, from quick good nights to more involved nighttime rituals. They reflect on the flexibility and challenges of parenting, emphasizing the importance of adapting routines to individual family needs and doing what works best for the family as a whole.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

153: Pelvic Floor PT: What to Expect and When to Seek Help Jul 07, 2024

Jamie and Emily start off this week’s episode by introducing their guest, Alex DiGrado (@bostonpelvicpt), a doctor of physical therapy who specializes in pelvic floor health. They humorously discuss their own personal experiences with Alex, and highlight the resources that Alex provides both in person and virtually.

In their conversation, Jamie, Emily, and Alex discuss the importance of pelvic floor health, especially during and after pregnancy. They talk about common misconceptions and fears about pelvic floor physical therapy, and Alex shares her approach to trauma-informed care, ensuring that patients feel safe and respected when in her care. She describes the logistics of pelvic floor PT, from when to go, how to find a good provider, and what patients can expect before and during their visit. Alex also touches on the flexibility of care, from one-time postpartum visits to more extended treatments, and the significance of realistic lifestyle modifications and home exercises in maintaining pelvic health.

In this week’s Q&A, Jamie and Emily discuss when parents can stop using baby monitors.

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist Directory

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

152: Feeding Your Baby: Expert Advice on Formula and Gut Health Jun 30, 2024

Emily and Jamie kick off this week’s episode by discussing Jamie’s recent experience with training her dog. Switching gears, they introduce their guest for this week, Nicole Fox. Nicole is a familiar face on the Nurture platform, providing virtual and in-person support and education for parents. As a registered nurse, dietician, and lactation consultant, Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, addressing common parental questions about infant formula and feeding.

In their discussion, Nicole acknowledges the overwhelming variety of infant formulas and the key factors to consider when choosing a formula, such as accessibility, cost, and specific dietary needs. Nicole shares her expertise on the importance of gut health in infants, explaining the differences between standard and hypoallergenic formulas, and the common misconceptions about lactose intolerance versus milk protein allergies. In their discussion, Emily, Jamie, and Nicole’s discussion also underscores the crucial role of proper education and support for parents, particularly regarding elimination diets in breastfeeding mothers, and emphasizes consulting with dietitians to ensure nutritional adequacy and manage dietary changes effectively.

In this week’s Q&A, Emily and Jamie discuss the transition from formula and bottles at the one year mark.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

151: Motherhood and Community: Insights from Mysha Pods’ Marika Frumes Jun 23, 2024

Emily shares her recent experience with end-of-school-year activities at her kids’ school before introducing their guest on this week’s episode, Marika Frumes. Marika is the cofounder of Mysha Pods, and both Emily and Jamie have witnessed her talents in community building and facilitating meaningful connections firsthand.

In their conversation, they discuss Marika’s journey through motherhood and community building. Marika shares her transition from a career in hospitality to creating a global women's community called "Her" (@her.usa) and later founding Mysha Pods (@myshapods), a supportive space for moms to form intimate connections with one another. They delve into the importance of genuine connections and fostering inclusive environments where women can share their experiences and support one another. Marika discusses the delicate and challenging first six months of motherhood, emphasizing the importance of virtual support during this period. She shares her journey of creating a supportive community for new moms through WhatsApp groups, which evolved into the formalized support system of Mysha Pods. Marika highlights the significance of forming connections and building community, encouraging listeners to engage and reach out to others in their everyday environments.

In this week’s Q&A, Emily and Jamie answer a mom’s question about going into labor prior to a scheduled c-section.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

150: Fatherhood, Friendships, and Finding Balance with Max Kirchoff Jun 16, 2024

In this Father’s Day episode, Emily and Jamie sit down with Max Kirchoff, a father of two and facilitator of Nurture’s Dad Support Group, to explore the multifaceted journey of fatherhood. Max shares his insights on being a father, friend, and partner, highlighting the distinct ways men and women approach relationships and parenting. The conversation delves into the challenges men face in forming meaningful friendships and the importance of intentionality building lasting bonds. They discuss how societal expectations shape men's roles in work, family, and personal relationships. Max shares how he stays intentional and present when spending time with his kids, and emphasizes the value of building relationships and having a “third place” outside of work and home to foster meaningful connections and a sense of community.

In this week’s Q&A segment, Emily and Jamie discuss a question asking whether an infant can receive tylenol or motrin labeled as “Children’s.”

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

149: Navigating NICU Challenges: A Mom’s Experience Jun 09, 2024

This week’s episode features Alison, a mom of two and a NAPS client. She shares her journey of having two children in the NICU, in hopes that her story will help other parents who are navigating medical challenges with their own children. Alison joins Emily to share how she navigated the NICU with her two children, Abby and Caleb. Alison discusses staying in the hospital while pregnant to the emotional and medical hurdles of having premature and medically complex infants. She goes on to talk about her determination to breastfeed Caleb after not being able to do so with her daughter, the difficulties they faced, and the eventual decision to prioritize bottle and tube feeding in order to ensure Caleb’s health and bring him home from the hospital. Alison further explains the process of being discharged with a baby with a feeding tube and the unexpected obstacles that accompanied it. Emily and Alison touch upon resources available to parents with children in the NICU, emphasizing the importance of seeking support from therapists, as well as connecting to parents in similar situations through social media groups and organizations like Feeding Matters.

In this week’s Q&A, Jamie and Emily discuss ways to support someone whose child is in the NICU, using responses gathered from parents who have had this experience.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

148: Surviving and Thriving on Family Vacations: A Practical Guide Jun 02, 2024

Jamie and Emily kick off this episode by sharing what they did over Memorial Day Weekend before discussing this week’s episode on summer travel, highlighting their different perspectives when it comes to traveling with their families

Jamie and Emily share personal experiences and practical tips for traveling with children. They discuss their contrasting travel preferences and how these have evolved over time, talking about sleep environments and adjusting childrens’ routines. They also highlight the benefits of having a babysitter while on vacation to balance family time with time for personal relaxation, before diving into the logistics of traveling as a family. Emily draws from her experience flying with small children and gives her advice around managing luggage, car seats, and kids in airports. Jamie and Emily also cover important safety tips for travel, focusing on pools, the beach, and crowds.

In this week’s Q&A, Jamie and Emily give their tips about flying while pregnant.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

147: Understanding Autism: Early Diagnosis, Intervention, and Parental Support May 26, 2024

Jamie kicks this episode off by sharing her thoughts on the importance of estate planning for parents, not only financially but also the care and values that parents would like their children to have. She discusses her recent experience with The Parents Estate Planning Law Firm in Massachusetts, and highlights an upcoming free workshop on this topic as well as the option for listeners to book a call with the firm to learn more. Jamie introduces the guests for this episode, Dr. Cory Whelan and Dr. Kara LaCroix, co-founders of Seasons Behavioral Services, who provide valuable insights and resources for families supporting individuals with autism.

Dr. Whelan and Dr. LaCroix chat with Emily, sharing their journey in founding their organization and explain the process and importance of early intervention and support for families navigating autism diagnoses.The conversation delves into the intricacies of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services, highlighting its role in helping children and adults with developmental disabilities and autism. They discuss the importance of early diagnosis and intervention to improve outcomes and emphasize the significance of parental support and community resources to navigate the complexities of raising a child with autism.

In this week’s Q&A, Jamie addresses a parent's concern about their four-month-old waking up frequently at night, explaining the concept of the four-month sleep regression. Jamie also mentions Nurture’s sleep consultation services for personalized support.

Workshop with Jamie O’Day and Parents Estate Planning

Book a call with Parents Estate Planning Law Firm

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

146: Your Mental Health: Navigating Therapy, Biases, and Support with Jackie Lightner May 19, 2024

To introduce this podcast episode, Emily and Jamie discuss Jamie’s 13th wedding anniversary and her upcoming trip. They go on to reflect on the importance of self-care and introduce this episode’s guest, Jackie Lightner, talking about the different levels of mental health care and the unique approach of her program, Lightwork Therapy.

Jamie talks with Jackie Lightner, LICSW, and Executive Director of Lightwork Therapy and Recovery, a mental health service provider for women in Massachusetts. They discuss the evolving landscape of mental health care for women, acknowledging historical biases and the pressure on women to fulfill multiple roles. They explore societal expectations, the normalization of therapy, and challenges in accessing mental health support. The conversation delves into the need for intensive outpatient programs (IOPs) for women, highlighting issues with insurance coverage and the importance of tailored, supportive environments like Lightwork's female-focused space. They further discuss the challenges individuals face when transitioning from hospitalization to home care, highlighting the unpredictable wait times and insurance coverage issues. They emphasize the importance of navigating the system and advocating for proper care, sharing personal experiences and strategies to streamline the process. Jackie shares Lightwork’s different approaches and experts, as well as their structured 20 week curriculum that covers themes like safety, guilt, and shame. They emphasize the importance of self-care for high-functioning individuals, providing accessible help without the need for referrals. Jackie highlights their commitment to connecting individuals with appropriate care, even if it's not with them. She encourages reaching out via their website or Instagram for support.

In this week’s Q&A, Emily and Jamie prepare listeners for the warmer weather by answering a question about the use of bug spray on 2 year olds.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

145: Reframing The Mental Load with Sarah Harmon May 12, 2024

Jamie and Emily start this episode by sharing their recent walk, emphasizing the significance of spending time with friends and prioritizing self-care. They then introduce the guest for the episode, Sarah Harmon (@the.schoolofmom), who excels in prioritizing both these aspects. Sarah, a licensed mental health therapist, yoga/mindfulness teacher, corporate wellness expert, and founder of The School of MOM and Parent Wellness Group, is commended for her ability to offer practical tools for self-care and breaking generational cycles.

In their conversation with Sarah, they dive into the concept of the "mental load." Sarah suggests reframing the mental load as a "brain-body load," emphasizing its impact not only on mental but also emotional and physical well-being. She emphasizes the need to recognize and address the negative emotional component, and explore the potential for personal growth and empowerment that comes from understanding and managing the brain-body load, viewing it as an opportunity for self-awareness and assertiveness in defining one's needs and boundaries within relationships. They explore the role of community and partners in supporting personal growth and emotional well-being, and Sarah discusses her journey of self-discovery and empowerment within her relationship. They also discuss the significance of surrounding oneself with a supportive community, as demonstrated by Sarah's program "Flourish," which aims to help mothers prioritize self-care, break generational patterns, and create a hopeful future for themselves and their families.

In this week's Ask a Nurse segment, Emily discusses addressing parental concerns regarding sick children during sleep training. Sharing a scenario from her sister's experience, she emphasizes the importance of prioritizing a child's comfort and health over strict sleep routines. Emily provides practical guidance on determining when to intervene and offers reassurance to parents navigating similar situations.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

144: Parenting in the Digital Age: Insights on Social Media and Mental Health May 05, 2024

In this podcast episode, Emily and Jamie kick off Mental Health Awareness Month by having an insightful conversation with Megan Saxelby, a mental health expert who specializes in conflict resolution, social emotional learning, and emotional intelligence. Megan discusses her research and experience regarding the impact of social media on parents’ mental health. She highlights the unconscious influence of social media on parenting decisions and the challenges of navigating digital habits as a new parent. She emphasizes the need for proactive conversations and strategies to manage social media consumption. The conversation touches on privacy concerns, geolocation tracking, and the influence of social media on children's digital footprints. They discuss the impact of parents posting photos of their children on social media, and explore how social media usage can interfere with genuine connections, especially between parents. Emily, Jamie, and Meg touch on strategies for managing digital habits, including mindful usage, setting limits, and understanding emotional triggers. Throughout, they reflect on personal experiences and societal trends, urging listeners to consider the broader implications of their digital interactions.

In the Q&A this week, Jamie and Emily discuss supporting friends dealing with loss, recommending concrete resources that individuals can turn to, as well as practical strategies to support friends during any type of loss.

Nurture Support Groups

Postpartum Support International

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

143: Growing Strong: Understanding Occupational Therapy with Sarah McKinnon Apr 28, 2024

Emily and Jamie introduce guest Sarah McKinnon (@southieot), a friend and Occupational Therapist. They talk about Sarah as Jamie’s vacation buddy, and share their personal insights on the dynamics of going on vacation with friends, emphasizing the value of finding the right travel companion. They discuss Sarah’s role as a healthcare provider, specifically in her role on Nurture, providing education and live coaching calls to members.

In Jamie, Emily, and Sarah’s conversation, they discuss pediatric occupational therapy (OT) and its role in helping children and families develop essential skills for everyday activities. Sarah emphasizes that Occupational Therapists work with children on various developmental aspects, including sensory processing, cognition, and motor skills, to facilitate their engagement in play, learning, and self-care tasks. Furthermore, Sarah, Emily, and Jamie discuss the differences between OT, physical therapy, and speech-language pathology, underscoring the holistic approach of occupational therapy in addressing a wide range of developmental needs. Sarah emphasizes the importance of early intervention and highlights signs that may indicate a need for OT support. Additionally, McKinnon offers tips on facilitating tummy time, shares information about Southie OT's services, including in-person and virtual consultations, and encourages listeners to visit their website or Instagram for more information and resources.

In this week’s Q&A segment, Jamie and Emily discuss the challenge of when kids should be able to wipe themselves after potty training. They emphasize that every child is different and acknowledge that independence in this task varies and may require patience.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS for 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

142: Potty Training without the Pressure: A Candid Conversation with Expert Ellen McCue Apr 21, 2024

Emily and Jamie start off this episode by discussing their excitement for a corporate workshop and Emily's relatable struggle with using her Dyson blow dryer. This week, they welcome Ellen McCue to their podcast, to talk about potty training, a common concern amongst Nurture clients and instagram followers. Ellen is a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner who is a familiar face on the Nurture platform, providing practical and evidence-based advice to parents. Jamie, Emily, and Ellen break down potty training, starting by emphasizing that there is no “right” age to potty train a child. They then delve into various aspects of potty training, focusing on both daytime and nighttime training. They share personal anecdotes and insights into the challenges parents face during the process. Ellen emphasizes the normalcy of boys and girls wetting the bed at older ages and advises against rushing nighttime potty training, suggesting that it often happens naturally over time. They also touch on the importance of addressing constipation issues and how it can affect potty training progress, as well as sleep issues and behavioral patterns related to accidents in older children. They provide reassurance to parents, potty training is often a process, encouraging them to be patient and understanding throughout the potty training journey.

In this week’s Q&A segment, Emily and Jamie answer a question about whether giving a child too much dairy is possible, providing both the medical perspective and practical advice for parents dealing with picky eaters. They emphasize the importance of balance and moderation in a child's diet and encourage listeners to join their Nurture membership for more daily insights and support.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS to get 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

141: Choosing Childcare: Insights from Sommet Nannies Founder Lydia Thibodeau Apr 14, 2024

Kicking off this episode, Emily and Jamie banter about their weekend antics and signature dance moves before segueing into this week’s podcast episode, featuring Lydia Thibodeau, founder of Sommet Nannies (@sommet_nannies). Sommet Nannies is a nanny placement agency that specializes in connecting families with college-educated, professional caregivers. The episode is particularly timely as it coincides with International Nanny Training Day, an event taking place in Boston this year where both NAPS and Sommet Nannies will be in attendance to share their knowledge and services.

Jamie and Lydia’s discussion explores the nuances of selecting a childcare provider. Lydia emphasizes the importance of trusting one's instincts when choosing a provider and advises a decisive "hell yes" or "no" approach to candidates. She encourages consideration of the candidate’s ability to meet a family’s logistical needs and to inquire about their background and experience, particularly recommending unconventional candidates with diverse childcare experiences, not just those with traditional nanny roles. They discuss the importance of in-home meetings, as they provide an opportunity for observation and interaction, with references being crucial in cases where direct interaction with the child isn't possible (ie, when you’re expecting). The discussion covers essential reference check questions, communication strategies, and the differentiation between nanny and housekeeper roles. Lydia further emphasizes the importance of proactive communication and outlines the unique recruitment process and services offered by Sommet Nannies, including nationwide placements of not only nannies, but also house managers and chefs. Lydia concludes by sharing how interested parties can connect with Sommet Nannies through their website to start their own nanny search.

In this week’s Q&A segment, Jamie and Emily address concerns about a 10 month old not having teeth yet. They draw from their nursing expertise and personal experience to discuss the expected timeline for developing teeth and tips for parents who may be worried about their own child’s tooth development.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS to get 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

140: Navigating Tough Transitions as a Parent Apr 07, 2024

In this candid and relatable podcast episode, Jamie and Emily discuss navigating transitions as a parent, using Emily’s recent experience of ditching her daughter’s sippy cup as an example. Emily confessed to her recent decision to take away Eloise's beloved “little cup,” which had become a behavioral crutch for her two-and-a-half-year-old. Emily shares her strategy for removing the cup and navigating Eloise's reaction, highlighting the importance of setting boundaries and remaining consistent. Emily shares a powerful analogy for parenting transitions, likening the parent to the pilot of a plane and the children to passengers. Jamie and Emily discuss the significance of parental readiness and alignment between caregivers, as well as the need to stay steadfast in implementing new boundaries. Throughout their conversation, they offer insights into the challenges parents face when trying to maintain routines and patterns with their children, especially after disruptions like travel or illness. They emphasize the importance of not dwelling on setbacks and instead focusing on the ability to quickly return to a positive place. Emily and Jamie share their own experiences with parental guilt and imperfection, highlighting the need for self-compassion and willingness to adapt. They conclude by encouraging listeners to seek support and guidance when navigating parenting challenges, reinforcing the message that it's okay to seek help when navigating big transitions, and highlighting the Mom Survival Groups that are offered by NAPS.

In the Q&A segment, Jamie and Emily discuss mealtime expectations for a two-and-a-half-year-old toddler. They also highlight the importance of consistency and share personal strategies for managing mealtime challenges.

Learn more about NAPS Mom Survival Groups:

Veteran Mom Survival Group

New Mom Survival Group

Working Mom Survival Group

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS to get 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

139: Empowering Parents: A Conversation with Consumer Reports CEO Marta Tellado Mar 31, 2024

To start off this episode Emily and Jamie discuss Jamie's recent illness. Initially thought to be food poisoning but later diagnosed as the norovirus. They share anecdotes of sickness spreading through their family and friends before switching topics to introduce Marta Tellado, CEO of Consumer Reports (@consumerreports), as their guest for the episode. Highlighting the importance of Consumer Reports' research in product safety and recalls, they discuss the nonprofit’s approach and the value of accessing unbiased information for consumer decisions, especially as parents.

They continue the discussion with Marta, highlighting Consumer Reports’ dedication to product safety and its independent, nonprofit status. They reflect on the organization’s longstanding history of advocacy and research, particularly focusing on parents' needs for safe products. Marta elaborates on the meticulous testing processes, using the example of Consumer Reports’ testing of baby car seats, and their role in holding companies accountable for safety standards. Marta highlights the organization's commitment to equitable access to safety information and resources for all parents. She emphasizes the benefits of being a member of Consumer Reports, including access to comprehensive ratings and community engagement opportunities. Marta discusses the organization's international collaboration and learning from other models to enhance consumer advocacy efforts. The conversation extends to educating parents on proper product use and initiatives like the Baby Hub, designed to simplify product research and foster a trusted community for parents. Marta underscores Consumer Reports' member-driven support and its mission to empower consumers with reliable information while promoting informed decision-making in the overwhelming marketplace.

In this week’s Q&A segment, Emily and Jamie discuss the use of milk collectors like the Boon Trove and the misconception about differentiating between foremilk and hindmilk based on the time of day. They explain the purpose of milk collectors and assure listeners that all breast milk is beneficial regardless of when it's collected or fed to the baby. Emily and Jamie debunk myths surrounding the necessity of labeling milk by time of day. They encourage listeners to simplify their approach to breastfeeding and feeding their babies.

To learn more about Consumer Reports, visit cr.org

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

kozēkozē: Use code NAPS to get 20% off your purchase

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

138: From Diagnosis to Advocacy: A Parent’s Path to Making a Difference Mar 24, 2024

To start off this episode, Emily and Jamie discuss their recent experiences with their kids at the dentist. Jamie shares her frustrations and reflections on the dental appointments, particularly concerning her middle daughter's oral surgery and the dentist's approach to her children's dental care. They discuss the challenges faced by neurodiverse children in dental environments, and their own personal experiences at the dentist as adults.

In this inspiring episode, Jamie welcomes Steve Johnston (@dad.vs.blindness), a radiologist and father, to share his experiences as a dad, particularly how he navigates raising his son who was diagnosed with a rare disease called Bardet-Biedl Syndrome. Steve recounts the journey from his son's birth, marked by polydactyly (extra fingers and toes), to receiving his official diagnosis 7 years later with a potentially devastating prognosis: progressive vision loss leading to blindness. Despite the initial shock and disbelief, Steve reflects on his approach to coping, and emphasizes the importance of processing emotions and seeking professional help in navigating the complexities of grief and acceptance. He highlights the transition from grieving to taking action, and how this led to his family creating a nonprofit organization.Through their candid discussion, Jamie and Steve underscore the significance of community, professional guidance, and individualized approaches in navigating the complexities of rare diseases and parenting.

They spend time discussing the impressive nonprofit's inception and goals, Steve elaborates on the lack of immediate treatment options upon his son's diagnosis and the subsequent motivation to take action. Despite initially lacking a specific target for fundraising, the family embarked on creating a nonprofit, "A Race Against Blindness," with the aim of raising awareness, supporting research, and ultimately funding potential treatments or cures for Bardet-Biedl syndrome and related conditions. Steve shares the challenges of navigating the complex landscape of medical research funding for rare diseases and the fortuitous alignment with a research group in the UK working on potential therapies. Through their nonprofit endeavors and physical challenges like triathlons, the family not only raises funds but also instills values of resilience and perseverance in their children, preparing them to face life's inevitable challenges with mental fortitude and adaptability.

In this week’s Live Ask a Nurse segment Jamie and Emily discuss how to manage oversupply, a common concern among breastfeeding mothers. They offer practical tips such as using hand expression or a Haakaa to reduce milk flow before feeding, and reclining during breastfeeding. They emphasize the importance of seeking guidance from a lactation consultant for personalized advice tailored to individual needs and circumstances. They also mention the resources available through the Nurture annual membership.

To learn more about A Race Against Blindness: https://araceagainstblindness.org/

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

137: Balancing Act: Redefining Success in Career and Life with Jessica Galica Mar 17, 2024

Emily and Jamie kick off by chatting about Emily's spontaneous trip to Disney World with her family. From tricking the kids into thinking they're heading to the dentist to keeping the bar low, Emily spills the beans on all the tips she learned to make their first Disney vacay a smash hit. She even manages to convince Jamie (maybe) to brave a flight with her kiddos! The conversation then veers into their bumpy flight experience they had together, dishing on how Emily deals with flying jitters. Spoiler alert: Having good friends along for the ride totally helps!

In this episode, Emily and Jamie are joined by Jessica Galica, author of the book “Leap” and founder of Reclaim Your Career and executive and career coaching for high-performing women and working moms. Jess shares her journey from a traditional corporate career to writing her book after experiencing a career crisis. Despite being successful, Jess felt unfulfilled and wanted to pursue something different. She emphasizes the importance of listening to one's inner voice and aligning career choices with personal fulfillment.

The conversation delves into the emotional aspects of career transitions, with Jess highlighting common themes of dissatisfaction and the struggle to balance personal desires with societal expectations. Drawing from her research and interviews with over 150 women, Jess emphasizes the need for women to acknowledge their desires for change and consider the potential rewards of taking risks. The trio reflects on the pivotal moments that prompt career changes, such as becoming a parent, and the ongoing journey of aligning personal values with career choices.

They discuss how societal expectations impact women's and men's decisions regarding career and family, highlighting the pressure to "do it all" for women and conform to traditional roles for men. Jess emphasizes the importance of challenging these narratives and articulating personal motivations, suggesting that incremental changes can be more sustainable than drastic leaps. They also share resources for further exploration, including Jess's website, book titled "Leap," LinkedIn profile, and podcast "Reclaim Your Career."

In this week’s Ask a NAPS Nurse segment Jamie and Emily answer a question from a parent about the eat-play-sleep routine for a newborn. They explain that as babies grow, they naturally become more alert and interactive, making the eat-play-sleep routine more relevant. However, in the initial weeks, the primary focus is on feeding and sleep, with limited opportunities for structured activities. It's crucial to recognize that each baby is unique, and there's no one-size-fits-all approach to parenting, especially during the early months!

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

136 Parenting with Purpose: Using B.R.A.I.N.S to Make Informed Decisions Mar 10, 2024

Jamie and Emily introduce this episode as they sip their coffees and discuss their recent day of filming for the Nurture by NAPS community, excited to share their plans for releasing new video content.

In this episode, Jamie and Emily discuss decision-making, as a parent. They emphasize the importance of thoughtful decision-making and how it impacts not only a child but also the parents' well-being. They explore the intricacies of decision-making in parenting using the B.R.A.I.N.S framework: Beliefs, Research, Avoid Outside Influence, Initiate a Plan, No Guilt, and Set a Time to Revisit the Choice.

Jamie and Emily delve into the B.R.A.I.N.S framework, providing personal anecdotes and practical examples. From navigating conflicting beliefs to conducting thorough research, they highlight the significance of understanding one's values and gathering relevant information before making decisions.

They also discuss the challenges of avoiding outside influence and the necessity of having a supportive network of people who understand and respect individual circumstances. They stress the importance of setting realistic timelines for decision evaluation and the need to acknowledge and celebrate the efforts put into making informed choices, regardless of the outcome. Through candid conversations and relatable experiences, Jamie and Emily offer valuable insights into parenting decision-making processes, empowering listeners to approach challenges with clarity, confidence, and compassion.

In this Ask a Nurse segment, Jamie & Emily answer when to drop the dream feed. They explain the dream feed can usually be dropped as early as four and by six months. Dropping it cold turkey is often recommended, as it tends to lead to either uninterrupted sleep or the need for some sleep training techniques.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

135: Setting Boundaries and Embracing Flexibility: A Psychologist Perspective from Aishwarya Weaver Mar 03, 2024

Jamie and Emily welcome guest, Dr. Aishwarya Weaver (https://www.draishwaryaweaver.com/) , a psychologist specializing in grief, pregnancy, prenatal, postpartum and infertility. They delve into Aishwarya's background and her journey into focusing on women in the perinatal period, discussing themes of grief, identity, and expectations surrounding pregnancy and postpartum experiences. The conversation sheds light on the gap between expectations and reality. Specifically when looking at support from parents and in-laws, during the transition to parenthood. They emphasize the importance of setting realistic expectations, having open conversations with family members, and embracing the concept of "good enough" parenting.

The conversation turns tactical, as they discuss strategies for setting and maintaining boundaries. Aishwarya emphasizes the importance of understanding individual needs and advocating for oneself. Self-awareness and effective communication are highlighted as essential tools for articulating needs with family members, partners, or friends.

Jamie and Aishwarya express optimism about the potential for growth and connection through honest dialogue and boundary-setting. They affirm the value of seeking support and resources, both professionally and personally, to navigate the complexities of parenthood and relationships with authenticity and compassion. The episode serves as a guide for listeners to embrace flexibility and adaptability in nurturing healthy relationships amidst life's changes and challenges.

In this week’s Ask a NAPS Nurse segment, Jamie and Emily answer a question about activities for a two-year-old child while the parent is pregnant with their second child. They share personal experiences and suggestions for keeping toddlers entertained like bringing the water tables indoors!! They also discuss outsourcing child care to family members, friends, or babysitters for some relief. They make note of the practicality of utilizing screens like television or iPads during times of pregnancy discomfort, and suggest considering options like hiring a mother's helper if available.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

134: From Loss to Love: Taylor Wolfe on Grief, Growth, and Parenthood Feb 25, 2024

Jamie and Emily are joined by Taylor Wolfe (@thedailytay), author of Birdie & Harlow: Life, Loss, and Loving My Dog So Much I Didn't Want Kids (...Until I Did), blogger, and Mom to two. Taylor shares her unexpected life twists and journey towards writing and launching a book, navigating grief and motherhood's complexities, finding solace in writing and sharing her experiences through her social media platform. From soul-sucking jobs to making graphic t-shirts, she illustrates the struggle and triumphs that shaped her path. Wolfe's narrative weaves the themes of pursuing passion, facing grief, and embracing motherhood, resonating with listeners who grapple with similar life transitions and aspirations.

Through her story, she emphasizes the importance of perseverance and embracing change, ultimately finding fulfillment in pursuing her lifelong love for writing. Taylor discusses the challenges of parenthood and the constant struggle with grief and time.

She shares the differences between her first and second child, Birdie and Goldie, and how she copes with the passage of time and the pressure of parenting. The trio discusses Taylor’s experiences with sleep training, breastfeeding, and seeking validation as a parent.

Despite her introverted nature, she finds solace in writing and connecting with others through her book. Taylor's candid storytelling resonates with listeners, offering humor and empathy amidst the chaos of motherhood.

In this week’s Ask a NAPS Nurse segment, Jamie and Emily discuss the challenge of getting a two-year-old to take medication when they refuse liquids and chewables due to illness. Jamie shares from personal experience that sometimes it's unnecessary to treat the fever, emphasizing the importance of reading the child's behaviors while they are sick. You can read more on this in the Navigating Childhood Fevers blog. They suggest creative methods like hiding medication in food or using flavoring options, ensuring the dosage is manageable for the child to consume.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

133: Root Causes and Personalized Solutions: Bridgitte Mallinson's Approach to Gut Health Feb 18, 2024

Jamie and Emily are joined by Bridgitte Mallinson (Instagram @bridgittemalli), MS, RDN, founder and CEO of GutPersonal, a company focusing on personalized gut health solutions (Instagram @gut.personal). They reminisce about Bridgitte's journey through pregnancy and labor, noting the presence of NAPS nurses during her childbirth. Bridgitte recounts her health struggles, leading her to found Gut Personal, and discuss the significance of gut health for overall well-being, particularly for women.

The conversation covers how hormones and other bodily functions are influenced by gut health and the importance of a personalized approach. Emily reflects on her own health challenges and the significance of addressing root causes rather than symptoms. Bridgette emphasized the personalized approach Gut Personal takes in assessing gut health and recommending supplements tailored to individual needs.

They discuss the root causes of common health issues like infertility, morning sickness, and low energy levels in women, particularly during pregnancy and postpartum. Bridgette shares personalized supplements recommendations based on individual needs. She also highlights the importance of quality supplements and the need for education on their use, noting the gap of knowledge among some traditional healthcare providers. She encourages listeners to seek out reliable sources for information and offers personalized coaching and testing services through GutPersonal.

In this week’s Ask a NAPS Nurse, Jamie and Emily help out those new parents! They talk about newborn bedtimes, explaining that newborns typically don't have a set bedtime and often settle for the night around 10 PM or later due to their natural activity patterns. They also mention that most infants develop an earlier bedtime by around 12 weeks, typically between 6 and 8 PM, but variations exist, and families can adjust based on what works best for them.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

GutPersonal: Use code UNSWADDLED for 10% off all products

132: Redefining Intimacy in Parenthood with Rebecca Eudy Feb 11, 2024

In this episode, Emily and Jamie welcome Rebecca Eudy (https://www.rebeccaeudy.com/ ), a licensed mental health counselor specializing in couples and sex therapy. Together, they engage in an open and candid conversation about postpartum intimacy, offering valuable insights and tips for couples navigating changes in their relationship dynamics. Rebecca's expertise shines as she addresses common concerns and misconceptions surrounding intimacy after childbirth.

The conversation begins with Rebecca outlining her practice and focusing on addressing issues of desire discrepancy within relationships, stressing the importance of understanding individual needs. Throughout the discussion, the trio explores various facets of intimacy and desire, including societal expectations, gender roles, and the importance of emotional connection.

They challenge myths surrounding orgasm and redefine sex beyond penetrative intercourse, highlighting the significance of communication and mutual understanding. Rebecca encourages couples to prioritize pleasure and explore new avenues of intimacy.

The conversation also delves into the challenges couples face in maintaining a healthy sexual relationship amidst the demands of daily life. Rebecca emphasizes the role of open communication in understanding each partner's desires and preferences, as well as addressing the mental load associated with household responsibilities.

Practical solutions such as scheduling sex and creating a conducive environment are suggested to overcome barriers. The discussion extends to the postpartum period, acknowledging the unique challenges mothers may face due to constant physical contact with their infants.

Rebecca offers strategies for rediscovering intimacy, including seeking professional support like therapy. The episode underscores the normalization of seeking help to enhance relationship satisfaction and sexual intimacy, regardless of the stage or challenges a couple may face.

In this week’s Ask a NAPS Nurse, Emily and Jamie discuss differentiating between normal and abnormal levels of spit-up in babies, outlining signs indicating underlying medical issues such as reflux or allergies. Emily stresses the importance of observing the baby's overall disposition and advises seeking pediatrician guidance if concerned.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

131: Navigating Motherhood: Balancing Twins, Career and Self-Care with Laura Jacobs Feb 04, 2024

Emily and Jamie introduce this week’s episode with Emily’s recent snowboarding experience after a year-long hiatus after a fall lead to a concussion. The duo discuss the challenges of returning to the slopes and Emily's newfound cautiousness.

Emily is then joined by Laura Jacobs (Instagram @laurathematchmaker), celebrity matchmaker and mom to two sets of twins! Emily and Laura engage in a candid conversation about the distinct challenges of pregnancy, particularly when expecting twins for the second time. Laura shares the joys and unexpected trials of having 15-month-old twins while anticipating the arrival of her second set. The episode offers a glimpse into Laura's life as a celebrity matchmaker, highlighting the delicate balance required when navigating the demands of a high-profile career alongside family life.

The discussion takes a poignant turn as Laura reflects on her experience with hyperemesis during both pregnancies. Emily explores the challenges of finding empathy and understanding from others, shedding light on the rarity of hyperemesis and the lack of priority in research to find a cure. The duo also delves into the topic of returning to work early after having a baby, particularly dealing with the demands of a high-intensity job, pumping, and navigating societal expectations around breastfeeding, revealing the lack of support for postpartum mothers in the workplace.

Laura emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, self-care, and unapologetically prioritizing one's well-being in the face of societal expectations. Laura offers advice to expecting parents, encouraging them to focus on the positives of twins and highlighting the benefits as they grow older. The discussion concludes with insights into Laura's approach to social media, where she maintains a dedicated space for matchmaking and dating advice, keeping her family life private due to concerns about online safety.

In this Ask a NAPS Nurse segment Emily and Jamie answer a listener's question about the ideal timing for taking prenatal classes during pregnancy. They discuss their upcoming Pre-Baby Bootcamp, an interactive prenatal education event, and they highlight the benefits of the Nurture by NAPS annual membership, offering flexibility and access to various prenatal resources. The sweet spot for taking classes, such as Pre-Baby Bootcamp, is between 24 and 34 weeks of pregnancy, though it can be done a bit earlier or later.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

130: Newborn Hearing Screening: Navigating Newborn Hearing Tests and Early Intervention with Kelsey Kerkhove Jan 28, 2024

Emily and Jamie introduce this week’s episode sharing their family dynamics of dividing and conquering the weekends with their six kids. They then introduce their guest, Kelsey Kerkhove, Au.D., CCC-A, pediatric audiologist from California. Emily and Kelsey discuss the role of a pediatric audiologist, emphasizing the importance of early identification and intervention for hearing loss in infants. Kelsey explains the routine nature of the newborn hearing screening, a requirement before babies leave the hospital, and stresses its significance in identifying congenital hearing loss. Kelsey dispels misconceptions about deafness and underscores the positive outcomes facilitated by the newborn hearing screening process.

The duo discuss the two types of tests involved in newborn hearing screening: Otoacoustic Emissions (OAE) and Automatic Auditory Brainstem Response (AABR) and explain what these non-invasive tests aim to identify and address. Kelsey emphasizes the importance of follow-up appointments and the need for parents to inquire about the type of follow-up and action plan if their baby doesn't pass the initial screening. The conversation delves into the potential causes of hearing loss, specifically mentioning cytomegalovirus (CMV) and advocating for its testing in newborns within the first 21 days of life to rule out any related complications. She addresses common experiences during the hearing tests and the need for parents to be aware of potential risk factors.

Kelsey encourages parents to advocate for their babies' hearing health by asking for tests if they have concerns. She also mentions that early detection of hearing issues is crucial, and she provides information on developmental milestones related to hearing.

The conversation touches on the emotional aspects of receiving a diagnosis of hearing loss for a child and the importance of support and information. Kelsey offers resources on her Instagram page @KelseyKerkhove_AUD, where she provides blogs, guides, and one-on-one consulting for parents navigating their child's hearing journey.

In the "Live Ask a Nurse" segment, Emily and Jamie respond to a listener's question about losing their mucus plug, explaining its role in pregnancy, debunking misconceptions, and reassuring that it doesn't necessarily indicate an imminent labor, while providing some light-hearted encouragement and information about the process.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPSPOD for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

Episode 129: Teamwork and Adaptability: Unveiling the Realities of Parenting with NAPS Clients Jan 21, 2024

Emily and Jamie introduce this episode by sharing humorous anecdotes about parenting, including a time when Jamie peed her pants after a parenting struggle. They discuss their experiences with kids' electronic devices and set the stage for their conversation with dedicated NAPS clients, Alyssa and Eric Scruggs. The couple has utilized various NAPS services throughout their parenting journey. The episode covers their parenting struggles and successes, getting support from NAPS programs, and how they navigate toddler issues while expecting their second child.

Eric and Alyssa provide insights into the unpredictable nature of parenting, stressing the importance of adaptability in handling unforeseen situations. Emily touches on societal expectations surrounding parenting roles, acknowledging the contributions of both partners. The couple appreciates NAPS’s emphasis on preparing both parents for the challenges ahead, fostering teamwork, and mutual support and treating fathers as active participants in parenting rather than mere observers.

The conversation covers various aspects of parenting, with a focus on recognizing the challenges of feeding and exploring diverse feeding options. Particularly Alyssa’s experience exclusively pumping after breastfeeding difficulties. Emily acknowledges the emotional toll feeding challenges can take on parents and underscores the significance of seeking professional help, including lactation consultants. The discussion concludes with the couple expressing gratitude for the community and resources provided by NAPS, which have played a vital role in their parenting journey.

In the "Live Ask a NAPS Nurse" segment, Emily and Jamie respond to a question from a parent with a two-and-a-half-month-old baby who sleeps for long stretches at night and wonders if they should wake the baby to feed. The hosts agree that there's no need to wake the baby and explain why. For those who do not have a newborn sleeping like this overnight, they suggest checking out the Nurture webinar How to Get Your Newborn to Sleep Longer Stretches Overnight

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

128: Navigating Care: Mastering Conversations with Healthcare Providers Jan 14, 2024

Emily and Jamie start the podcast with a hilarious dive into the woes of Emily's new Invisalign adventure, where the only thing more crooked than her teeth is her attempt at talking with them in. Their banter sets a playful tone as they transition to an insightful discussion on effective communication with healthcare providers.

Emily and Jamie dive into a framework for engaging with healthcare professionals, underscoring the significance of asking questions and understanding available options. Drawing from personal experiences, they illuminate scenarios where a proactive approach to gathering information proves essential. Practical advice includes preparing questions in advance of appointments, involving partners in discussions, and implementing a system to document answers during the appointment. The hosts emphasize the importance of seeking clarification if post-appointment confusion arises, urging listeners to prioritize understanding and advocate for quality care. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to share their experiences after using this communication framework.

In the "Live Ask a NAPS Nurse" segment, Emily and Jamie respond to a parent's query about a 13-month-old who seems to have "forgotten" how to eat solids and is now rejecting them while still relying on formula bottles. Proposing a counterintuitive solution, the hosts recommend a gentle weaning process by gradually decreasing the volume of formula bottles. They reassure parents that the child likely hasn't genuinely forgotten how to eat solids but may be expressing a preference for formula or experiencing a developmental phase. They suggest exploring personalized guidance on their online membership platform, Nurture by NAPS.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

127: Global Perspectives on Parenthood: A Journey with The Labor Mama Jan 08, 2024

Jamie and Emily return for a new podcasting year, sharing updates on their lives, including Jamie's dental challenges with her daughter. The episode features Lo Mansfield, the "The Labor Mama" on Instagram, who offers insights as a former labor and delivery nurse, while living abroad in the Netherlands. The conversation explores healthcare differences between the United States and the Netherlands, prenatal care experiences, and various aspects of pregnancy and birth. Lo’s experiences in the Netherlands sheds light on parenting, healthcare, and maternity care, providing a unique perspective on the cultural and system differences.

Lo's journey unfolds, emphasizing the mission of Labor Mama for realistic, high-quality parental education. From transitioning from bedside nursing to virtual nursing, she discusses personal experiences and the loss of her mother, leading to creating Labor Mama during the COVID pandemic. Gaps in prenatal education recognition and empowering parents with comprehensive knowledge are highlighted. The conversation touches on Lo's decision to move to the Netherlands with her family, as well as insights into family dynamics, decision-making, and the unique circumstances leading to relocation are shared.

The podcast delves into Lo's experiences with parenting and healthcare in the Netherlands, covering government-supported childcare, parental leave policies, and the Dutch culture's work-life balance emphasis. The decentralized nature of healthcare, challenges in coordinating services, and unique aspects of Dutch parenting, like early swimming and relaxed safety measures, are discussed.

Lo shares her maternity journey navigating the decentralized healthcare system in the Netherlands, highlighting challenges with coordination, language barriers, and cultural differences. The international parenting experience is explored, drawing parallels with similar stories from parents in Germany. Lo emphasizes developing familiarity with medical terminology for empowerment. The episode concludes with gratitude and hopes for a future reunion as Lo's family transitions back to the United States.

In the "Live Ask a NAPS Nurse" segment, Jamie and Emily critique pregnancy rules, challenging healthcare's default tendency to discourage activities without thorough evaluation. Common misconceptions about coffee, sushi, deli meats, alcohol, and exercise during pregnancy are addressed, emphasizing moderation and individual decision-making based on updated evidence. Recommended resources for expectant parents include Pre-Baby Bootcamp, the Nurture by Naps membership, and Emily Oster's book "Expecting Better."

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

126: Mental Shifts, Community Cheers, and Legacy Tears Jan 01, 2024

Dive headfirst into the world of dog ownership with Jamie and Emily in this rollicking episode. From Jamie's daring escape from a glass coffee table disaster to musings on life's unpredictability and year-end resolutions, the duo offers a rollercoaster ride of humor and wisdom.

In the initial podcast segment, Jamie and Emily candidly tackle the hurdles of parenting when plans go awry. Eloise's struggle with RSV and pneumonia unfolds, recounting the emotional upheaval of hospital visits, restless nights, and the anxiety of witnessing a child's respiratory distress. Jamie and Emily advocate for decoding a child's cues beyond temperatures, humorously navigating the intricacies of the healthcare system and the superhero skill of advocating for optimal child care.

As the episode unfolds, Jamie and Emily express gratitude for supportive medical professionals, infusing humor amid chaos and stressing the importance of the "long game" in parenting. The segment concludes with Eloise's resilient recovery, a testament to navigating unexpected challenges.

In the second half, Jamie and Emily shift gears to reflect on mental shifts, support systems, and community in trying times. Balancing work and personal life, the hosts stress self-care and share personal anecdotes of panic and prioritizing well-being. The conversation expands to highlight the significance of community support, with gratitude for friends, family, and listeners who choose to be part of the collective journey.

The episode takes an emotional turn as Jamie tears up during an estate planning process's "legacy interview." With anticipation for the upcoming year, heartfelt thanks are extended to the NAPS community, accompanied by wishes for a joyous and, if possible, healthy new year. The episode wraps up with a teaser for next year's parenting escapades.

In this week’s "Live Ask a NAPS Nurse" segment, Jamie and Emily bring humor to the common challenge of surviving cold and flu season with a toddler. From running humidifiers round-the-clock to turning the bathroom into a steamy haven, the hosts share practical tips for managing symptoms sans medications. Normalizing the endurance test of a two to three-week cold, they sign off with a promise of more parenting adventures in the next episode.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

125: Grandparenting Unveiled: Insights from a Veteran Mom and Her Supportive Mom Dec 25, 2023

In this festive episode, Jamie reflects on the chaos of holiday-themed attire, advocating for simplified, accessible themes for events like School Spirit Week.

This episode honors those providing invaluable support during the parenthood transition, offering a heartwarming perspective for the holiday season. If you haven’t listened to our Visitors Versus Helpers podcast, do that before diving in HERE.

Colleen, a seasoned NAPS mom, joins Emily along with her mother, Margaret. Colleen shares her evolving approach to seeking help, emphasizing the shift from passive acceptance to actively seeking assistance. The discussion explores Colleen's participation in NAPS' Grandparent Bootcamp, highlighting insights into improving her son's sleep.

Margaret, a seasoned grandmother of six, contributes by discussing the changing parenting landscape and stressing the importance of an open-minded village approach. The conversation delves into grandparent support dynamics, focusing on communication and understanding.

Valuable tips are shared, emphasizing the importance of clear communication when accepting help and staying informed about modern parenting practices. The discussion concludes with a reminder to find joy in the parenting journey, fostering positive intergenerational relationships.

Emily encourages listeners to explore NAPS programs, including New Mom and Veteran Mom Support Groups. The episode also features a live Ask A NAPS nurse segment addressing postpartum pain with sex. Jamie extends holiday wishes and teases the upcoming episode to wrap up 2023. Don't miss the next grandparent bootcamp, and stay tuned for more insightful episodes next year!

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

124: Beyond Blueberries: A Deep Dive into Fair Play, Difficult Conversations, and Choosing Growth Dec 18, 2023

In this episode, Jamie and Emily spill the beans on how they tackled their experience or lack of experience with crib climbers. They share their strategies for preventing crib climbing and keeping their children safe.

Enter the main event – the fabulous Eve Rodsky, author of the New York Times Best-Selling Fair Play and author of the new book Find Your Unicorn Space. The trio delves into the nitty-gritty of partnerships and finding that mythical unicorn space post-parenthood. Spoiler alert: it involves less glitter and more strategy.

Eve shares her personal experience of becoming the default caregiver and her “blueberry breakdown” that led to the creation of the book. They dive deep into the importance of communication, ownership in the home and the gamification of difficult conversations.

Eve explains the concept of an ownership system - not for corporations, but for domestic responsibilities. And shares insights into a card game that aids in transitioning to ownership, using the example of handling garbage to illustrate the depth of responsibility involved. Who knew garbage could be so intense?

The discussion concludes with the acknowledgment that this conversation is challenging but worth it, encouraging listeners to recognize the value of their time and how embracing an ownership mindset in the home is the golden ticket to domestic bliss. Who knew your home could be a well-oiled machine?

In this live Ask A NAPS nurse, Jamie and Emily address the challenge of taking away pacifiers from a one-year-old who uses them to fall asleep. Emily recounts a humorous yet cautionary tale from a past episode where her husband threw their child's pacifier into the ocean in frustration. Check it out HERE! Jamie and Emily provide advice on handling the situation, suggesting a cold turkey approach to pacifier removal.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

123: Navigating Toddler Nutrition: Tackling Picky Eating and Snack Strategies with Pediatric Dietician Malina Malkani Dec 11, 2023

This week's episode starts with some personal updates, sharing Emily's recent experience of being a labor and delivery nurse again as she assisted in delivering her sister's baby. The excitement and high from the delivery are discussed, Jamie reflects on Emily's claim that she can still handle working a night shift and humorously debunks it, citing Emily’s inability to function without adequate sleep, especially with three children and a dog.

In this episode, Jamie and Emily welcome back special guest Malina Malkani, MS, RDN, CDN, a pediatric registered dietitian.They dive into the wild world of toddler picky eating, where Malina reassures us that it's totally normal, shedding light on the growth patterns that contribute to changing appetites and shares on steering clear of food battles without resorting to bribes. Malina spills the beans on why exposing toddlers to new foods in a neutral way is the secret sauce. The discussion also touches on common pitfalls with snacks and how to maintain a balanced approach to toddler nutrition.

Later on, the trio tackles the snack saga, uncovering the art of managing picky eaters and sticking to a mealtime routine. Malina emphasizes the importance of frequent, small meals to accommodate the limited capacity of children's tummies. She's all about a solid schedule, suggesting a meal or snack every two to three hours to dodge the pitfalls of excessive snacking. Malina explains that snacks, like goldfish, often provide comfort and familiarity for children, but cautions against letting them fill up at meal times. The conversation delves into the significance of modeling good eating habits as parents and maintaining a food schedule to create a sense of predictability for children. They even tackle handling hunger right before a meal, turning it into a golden opportunity to slip in those less-loved veggies.

The discussion concludes with insights into safe foods, the importance of consistency, and the potential need for supplements, with Malina advising a food-first approach and collaboration with a pediatric dietitian for personalized guidance. It's a goldmine of practical tips for all the parents out there wading through the challenges of feeding their little ones.

You can connect with Malina on Instagram at @healthy.mom.healthy.kids, and her Solve Picky Eating course is available https://www.malinamalkani.com/solve-picky-eating; use the code “Nurture” at checkout for discounts. Additionally, her Baby-Led Weaning book is available for purchase HERE. She is also the author of Simple and Safe Baby-Led Weaning: How to Integrate Foods, Manage Portion Sizes and Identify Allergies. Private Pediatric Nutrition Practice: https://www.malinamalkani.com/work-with-malina-malkani

In this live Ask A NAPS nurse, address a question related to nap transitions for toddlers. Focusing on signs that it's time to drop a nap, Emily shares insights based on her experiences with her third child and emphasizes the importance of paying attention to individual children's needs. The conversation covers practical tactics like capping the morning nap or gradually transitioning to a single midday nap. To further assist parents with nap-related concerns, Jamie mentions resources available in Nurture by NAPS, their online membership. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to reach out for additional support on nap-related challenges (Sleep Consult).

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

122: Baby’s First Bites: Chatting Allergens and Parenting Laughs with Malina Malkani Dec 04, 2023

Jamie and Emily start out the episode by sharing comical stories about Jamie's unexpected return to being a dog lover and her husband's proactive handling of Christmas cards. They emphasize the importance of letting go of tasks one doesn't care about.

In this lively episode, Jamie and Emily are joined by special guest Malina Malkani. Connected through Instagram several years ago, the trio seamlessly transitions from discussing parenting, to diet and nutrition. Malina, a single mom and pediatric dietitian, shares details about her upcoming book on food allergy prevention during infant feeding. The hosts express admiration for Malina's easy-going nature and delve into the main topic: starting solids and baby-led weaning.

Jamie and Emily love Malina's balanced approach, bridging the gap between traditional purees and baby-led weaning. The conversation highlights Malina's expertise on starting solids, emphasizing the crucial six-month window when babies show readiness signs. The hosts inquire about historical recommendations like rice cereal, leading to a discussion on iron-rich foods, with Malina providing an ideal first foods list, including avocado and sweet potato.

Humor infuses the dialogue as they address parental anxiety about introducing certain foods, especially meats, due to choking. Malina reassures, suggesting alternatives and emphasizing a gradual approach. Gagging, a common concern, is demystified by Malina, who explains its role in oral motor skill development and advises calmness during the process.

The conversation shifts to address another fear: allergies. They cover evolving guidelines and the importance of early, frequent exposure. Malina dispels myths and addresses fears of severe reactions, offering practical advice on introducing allergens gradually. Malina answers audience questions around dropping bottles, frequency of introducing solids, and the baby-led weaning vs. purees debate.

You can connect with Malina on Instagram at @healthy.mom.healthy.kids, and her Baby-Led Feeding course is available HERE; use the code “Nurture” at checkout for discounts. Additionally, her Baby-Led Weaning book is available for purchase HERE.

In this live Ask A NAPS nurse, Jamie and Emily address a common parenting question about transitioning from three to two naps for babies, emphasizing the typical timeframe of six to nine months and signs such as nap resistance or disrupted sleep patterns. They provide insights on adjusting awake windows and suggest moving towards a more structured schedule.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

Kibou: Use code NAPS for 15% off your purchase of $89+

Little Spoon

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

121: Parenting Perspectives: Outdoor Play, Nature, and Child Development with Linda McGurk Nov 27, 2023

Naps co-founders Jamie and Emily tackle parenting chaos, reshaping homework woes. They highlight the flexibility parents have in making beneficial changes.

Transitioning to the main topic, Jamie, speaks with guest Linda McGurk, to explore diverse parenting philosophies and the benefits of outdoor play. Linda, author of "There's No Such Thing as Bad Weather," shares her Scandinavian perspective, emphasizing the importance of nature in children's development. The episode touches on cultural influences, societal attitudes, and challenges faced in American parenting. Linda advocates for play-based learning and a balanced, child-centric approach, encouraging parents to trust their intuition.

Linda emphasizes the importance of allowing children to take risks for skill development, critiquing the US's risk-averse culture. The conversation covers over-scheduling, safety obsessions, and the inhibitions hindering children's free play. Linda encourages parents to find nearby green spaces, promoting even short, regular outdoor play for child development, including city dwellers.

You can find Linda by signing up for her newsletter on rainorshinemamma.com and Instagram.

In this live Ask A NAPS nurse, Emily and Jamie address a viewer's query on plagiocephaly and the use of helmets for a child's flat head. They highlight severity as key, noting research showing positive outcomes for severe cases but minimal differences in mild to moderate instances. Emily, opting against a helmet for her child, advocates consulting a pediatrician and exploring non-invasive interventions like pediatric PT or OT initially.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

120: Evolution of the Village: Navigating Parenthood's Changing Support Systems with Jamie and Emily Nov 20, 2023

In this lively podcast episode, Jamie and Emily share humorous anecdotes about the challenges of getting their kids to embrace flu shots. Transitioning to the main topic, Jamie and Emily embark on a nostalgic exploration of the "village" concept and its transformation over time. Emily reminisces about her time on a military base, where the village was basically a daily block party with beach chairs, highlighting the sense of community and support among families.

They explore the traditional village model, emphasizing the role of family and neighbors in providing support. The conversation delves into the impact of societal changes, including more women working and moving away from family, leading to the perception that the village no longer exists. Jamie and Emily challenge this notion, emphasizing the importance of building a support system, whether virtual or local. They share personal anecdotes about their evolving villages and encourage listeners to embrace various forms of support. Jamie and Emily stress the importance of finding your people, whether it's the neighbor down the street or a virtual support group. The episode ends with a sneak peek into the next one—boundaries, or as Emily puts it, "how not to suffocate when your family's always around, promising valuable insights into maintaining healthy relationships with family and friends.”

In this week’s Live Ask a NAPS Nurse, Jamie and Emily featured the NAPS hat. For those interested, hit up hello@naps.com. This question delves into when to call the pediatrician, especially with cold and flu season approaching. Jamie and Emily, along with their pediatric nurse practitioner Ellen, discuss the typical duration of viruses in kids—up to three weeks. During cold and flu season, expect seven to 12 viruses. The hosts emphasize reading the child, not just the temperature, when dealing with fevers. If the child is drinking, producing wet diapers, and lacks respiratory issues, things are likely okay. Feeling lost? Call your pediatrician.

For the 2023 Holiday Gift Guide, to enter, dm @NurturebyNaps: #giftguide for the ultimate parent gift list. With every email for download we receive, NAPS will make a $1 donation to Toys for Tots.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

We’d also like to thank Walgreens, where getting your flu shot is nothing but smooth. Please sponsor us.

119: The Vagina Whisperer’s Guide to Pelvic Health Nov 13, 2023

In this podcast episode, Jamie engages in a lively and informative chat with Dr. Sara Reardon, affectionately known as The Vagina Whisperer (thevagwhisperer.com), a certified expert in pelvic health physical therapy. Their discussion revolves around the vital role of pelvic health, with a primary focus on pregnancy and postpartum care. As always, the seriousness of the topic is lifted by their humor and engaging conversation.

Dr. Sara makes sure we understand just how incredible the pelvic floor muscles are in supporting our internal organs and multitasking like pros. The conversation takes us through the quirks of pregnancy, with a lighthearted approach that highlights the importance of early action, education, and prevention in managing pelvic health. Dr. Sara is all about taking a proactive stance, breaking down the walls of stigma, and empowering everyone with knowledge.

Moving beyond pregnancy, the chat dives into the often-dismissed or simplified concerns of postpartum life, from awkward moments during intimacy to surprise leaks, and even abdominal issues. The talk also stresses the need for comprehensive insurance coverage for preventive care, making it clear that healthcare providers should actively steer patients toward pelvic health physical therapists.

The real hero here is pelvic floor physical therapy, addressing postpartum issues with tailored treatments and personal attention. The big picture is an ideal healthcare approach that's all about keeping new mothers informed, offering extensive support, and providing comprehensive education. This model seamlessly combines in-person and virtual care, giving new moms the tools and confidence to advocate for their well-being. Let's break the taboo and start talking openly about pelvic health!

You can find Dr. Sara on Instagram @the.vagina.whisperer

In this week’s Live Ask a NAPS Nurse, Jamie and Emily discuss when to transition to a larger nipple size for bottle fed babies. They clarify that the size impacts milk flow rate based on the number of holes. Typically, newborns use preemie or size one nipples, but around three to five months, a larger size may be needed if feedings take too long or babies become fussy and distracted. They dispel the breastfeeding nipple confusion myth and suggest switching if needed.

For all insights on what to expect when expecting - from pelvic floor to feeding plans, join our two-day virtual Pre-Baby Bootcamp experienced registered nurses guide expecting parents through an interactive, fun, and comprehensive prenatal and early parenting class, offering essential knowledge and a supportive community.

Enjoying the podcast? Dive into Jamie and Emily's candid stories and parenting tips with our weekly Nappenings email. Subscribe here for an extra dose of insights straight to your inbox!

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any pla

118: Navigating Daylight Saving Time and Potty Training Challenges Nov 02, 2023

In this episode, Emily and Jamie discuss the upcoming daylight saving time change, but not before sharing a humorous story about Eloise's park birthday party and an unexpected piñata mishap.

They humorously reflect on the inconveniences of losing an hour of sleep. Both share their personal experiences and practical tips for preparing children for the time change. Jamie advises gradually shifting meal and nap times later leading up to the event, while Emily advocates for a day-of adjustment by extending wake-up times and gently pushing bedtime back. They acknowledge that the transition period after the time change might be challenging, regardless of preparation, but reassure parents that it will eventually resolve itself.

The hosts encourage listeners to stick to awake windows and sleep cycles while navigating the transition. The episode concludes with a reminder that everyone is in the same boat and encourages listeners to tag them on social media, sharing their early morning wake-up stories (@nurturebynaps).

In this week’s Live Ask a NAPS Nurse, Jamie and Emily tackle the common challenge of kids being afraid to poop on the potty. Drawing from personal experiences, they normalize this fear, emphasizing that not all children learn to poop on the potty right away. They share insights on what's considered normal in terms of bowel movements and provide practical tips, including dietary suggestions and the use of over-the-counter laxatives if needed.

Enjoying the podcast? Dive into Jamie and Emily's candid stories and parenting tips with our weekly Nappenings email. Subscribe here for an extra dose of insights straight to your inbox!

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

The Turning Points podcast is back with a new season: Navigating Mental Health (Boston Globe Media in partnership with Point32Health)

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

Mission MightyMe: Use code UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off all first-time orders

117: Navigating Grief, Parenting, and Joy: Kerri McGrath's Inspirational Journey Oct 29, 2023

In this week's podcast episode, Jamie is joined by Kerri McGrath, a mom who bravely opens up about the heartbreak of losing her son, Colin. The conversation explores the profound complexities of grief, offering insights into strategies for supporting those in mourning and the unexpected challenges that come with welcoming a new child after such a loss. Kerri reflects on how grief has completely shifted her perspective and approach to parenting.

The narrative takes a poignant turn as Kerri shares the intricate aspects of managing multiple roles while grieving—parent of a grieving child, spouse, and mother. The discussion delves into the unique challenges of parenting amid grief, emphasizing the daily struggles, particularly when caring for a surviving child.

Kerri unfolds the inspiring story of Colin's Joy Project, born out of community support after a tragic event. What started with building playgrounds has evolved into creating programs that bring joy to families.

The conversation concludes with practical tips on supporting someone in grief, ranging from coordinating meal deliveries to simply being there and offering help. The discussion extends to the experience of parenting a child after losing another, highlighting the need for improved support and resources for parents who've undergone similar situations. Kerri advocates for increased resources and specialized support, sharing her own journey.

In sharing her heartfelt journey, including multiple miscarriages, Kerri's narrative is both relatable and touching. The NAPS team is genuinely honored to have Kerri share and eloquently articulate her story of loss and resilience.

Enjoying the podcast? Dive into Jamie and Emily's candid stories and parenting tips with our weekly Nappenings email. Subscribe here for an extra dose of insights straight to your inbox!

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

The Turning Points podcast is back with a new season: Navigating Mental Health (Boston Globe Media in partnership with Point32Health)

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

Mission MightyMe: Use code UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off all first-time orders

116: The Truth About Involving Partners in the Prenatal Journey and Early Parenting Decisions Oct 22, 2023

In this hilarious podcast segment, we dive into the quirks and challenges of parenting, with a focus on how partners can navigate the journey together. Jamie and Emily reflect on their experiences and the shortcomings of traditional prenatal classes that often sideline partners. They reminisce about teaching their early classes in hospital settings, where the curriculum seemed exclusively tailored to birthing moms, leaving partners feeling like awkward passengers on the parenting ride.

Jamie emphasizes the need for equality in parenting roles and suggests practical ways to include partners. They stress the importance of setting the tone early on by discussing and deciding how to handle various aspects of parenting, such as pediatrician appointments, managing sick kids and sharing responsibilities during the night.

Amidst the laughter, they delve into the broader implications of such decisions, emphasizing the need for partners to share the load and experience the on-the-job training that comes with parenting. They highlight the importance of communication, teamwork, and setting the stage for an equal and supportive partnership in the chaotic world of parenting.

If you enjoyed this episode and want more laughs and insights, be sure to check out Episode 107, where we previously delved into the truth about first-time expecting parents.

Be sure to join us for our next Pre-Baby Bootcamp, the prenatal class you don't want to miss! Whether you're a first-time parent or adding a new member to your growing family, our bootcamps are designed to provide valuable insights, tips, and a supportive community to help you navigate the exciting journey of parenthood.

In our Live Ask a NAPS Nurse Q&A Emily addresses a question on gassy babies and spit-up issues. Drawing from personal experiences, Emily distinguishes between normal spit-up and abnormal signs, emphasizing the importance of contacting a pediatrician for severe cases. She provides research-backed strategies, such as using probiotics and incorporating practices like tummy time and leg exercises to ease gas and spit-up troubles.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

The Turning Points podcast is back with a new season: Navigating Mental Health (Boston Globe Media in partnership with Point32Health

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

Mission MightyMe: Use code UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off all first-time orders

#114: The Truth About the NAPS Approach Oct 08, 2023

Jamie and Emily emerge from their summer of bike trailer crashes, island hopping, and questionable encounters at a Chris Stapelton concert. Brace yourselves because this dynamic duo is ready to unleash a podcast season that's wilder than ever before.

In this episode, our hosts address the fact that the shared parenting experience is f!cking HARD, and there is no one right way to get through it.

Get ready to tune in and laugh out loud as they also cover:

Finding parenting solutions by asking questions first (as Registered Nurses do) Seeking out different parenting perspectives through global experts Building a virtual village of parents

Be sure to tune into our Live Ask a NAPS Nurse at the end of the episode, where we answer YOUR parenting questions.

And if you thought that was all, think again! Get ready for a barrage of hilarious stories that will resonate with every parent, but spun in that signature Jamie and Emily style that'll leave you laughing at the absurdity that is parenthood.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

The Turning Points podcast is back with a new season: Navigating Mental Health (Boston Globe Media in partnership with Point32Health

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

Mission MightyMe: Use code UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off all first-time orders

#115: Emily Oster's Truth About Personalized Parenting Decisions Oct 08, 2023

In this podcast episode, Emily Oster, a professor of economics at Brown University and author of books like Expecting Better, Crib Sheet, and The Family Firm, discusses her work and upcoming book, "The Unexpected." As the creator of the Parent Data newsletter and corresponding parentdata.org website, she focuses on bringing evidence-based decision-making to parents and pregnant individuals.

Jamie and Emily pop the champagne for Emily Oster, who just hit 200,000 subscribers for Parent Data. The trio dives into "The Unexpected," which addresses pregnancy-related concerns and questions, particularly those related to the likelihood of recurring conditions from a previous pregnancy.

Oster shares insights into her decision-making process, emphasizing the role of data in providing numerical perspectives on risks and benefits.

The conversation takes a hilarious detour into the world of judgment—because who doesn't love unsolicited opinions on parenting, right? Oster advocates for creating a list of trusted advisors or "your people" to turn to for sound parenting advice. They also dissect the four-step decision-making process from Emily's book, "The Family Firm”: frame the question, fact-find, land on a final decision, and follow up. Plan for the sequel folks, Jamie and Emily also coined a fifth step.

The episode concludes with an impromptu live round of Ask a NAPS nurse Q&A. Oster steals the show as she delivers expert insights on how to approach the decision-making process for parents.

This podcast is proudly brought to you by our fabulous sponsors:

Feast & Fettle: Use code NAPS for $30 off your first order

The Turning Points podcast is back with a new season: Navigating Mental Health (Boston Globe Media in partnership with Point32Health

SilverPost: Use code NAPSFAMILY for $5 off any plan

Mission MightyMe: Use code UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off all first-time orders

Episode # 113: The Truth About Our Summer Plans May 28, 2023

Jamie and Emily join forces to talk summer plans, summer tips, and summer favorites. We are taking a summer break from the podcast and will be back with weekly episodes, come fall. Please let us know what you would like to hear more of. Wishing you all a fun summer!

Product favorites mentioned in this episode: 4moms pack and play Cool cabanas Blue lizard sunscreen Think baby sunscreen Hush sound machine Snapper rock long sleeve bathing suit Bogg bag Summer infant beach tent Evenflo wagon

Be sure to follow us on instagram for summer updates @nurturebynaps.

Proactive Puffs from Mission MightyMe make it deliciously simple to feed your little one peanuts AND tree nuts - and big kids love them too! Visit missionmightyme.com to learn more and use UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off your first order.

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ *code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode #112: The Truth about Finding Balance in Parenthood with Guest Nelly Alba May 21, 2023

Emily is joined by Nelly Alba, a Life Balance & Clarity Mentor for working moms and CEO of Working Mom Balanced (WMB). Nelly’s mission is to help working moms create their own balance amidst the daily chaos of parenthood.

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps.

Proactive Puffs from Mission MightyMe make it deliciously simple to feed your little one peanuts AND tree nuts - and big kids love them too! Visit missionmightyme.com to learn more and use UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off your first order.

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ *code: NAPSFAMILY

Nelly’s Info: Working Mom Balanced Podcast https://workingmombalanced.com/links/

Episode #111: The Truth About How Much We Care May 14, 2023

Amid the relaunch, Jamie and Emily get together to decompress, destress, and focus on the positivity that goes on behind the scenes at NAPS. They share client stories, personal stories, and some of the daily reminders that remind them of their WHY.

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

Proactive Puffs from Mission MightyMe make it deliciously simple to feed your little one peanuts AND tree nuts - and big kids love them too! Visit http://missionmightyme.com/ to learn more and use UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off your first order.

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ *code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode #110: The Truth About Being Working Parents And Parenting with Food Allergies with Guest Catherine Mitchell Jaxon May 07, 2023

Emily is joined by Catherine Mitchell Jaxon. Catherine is a working mom of 3, with her oldest daughter being allergic to most nuts. Prior to founding Mission MightyMe, Catherine was an award-winning journalist with CNN and is still an avid researcher and a journalist at heart.

Discussed in this episode: -Introducing allergens -Working parents -Parenting in the workspace -Food allergy prevention -Top allergens -Food allergy parents

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

Proactive Puffs from Mission MightyMe make it deliciously simple to feed your little one peanuts AND tree nuts - and big kids love them too! Visit http://missionmightyme.com/ to learn more and use UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off your first order.

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ *code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode #109: It's finally here... NAPS 2.0! Apr 30, 2023

Need we say more?

Check it out: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps.

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ *code: NAPSFAMILY

Proactive Puffs from Mission MightyMe make it deliciously simple to feed your little one peanuts AND tree nuts - and big kids love them too! Visit missionmightyme.com to learn more and use UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off your first order.

Episode # 108: How to Stop Second Guessing Your Decisions with Guest Sarah Harmon Apr 16, 2023

As requested, the NAPS team is taking on the “How To” podcast theme. To kick things off, Jamie is joined by Sarah Harmon. Sarah is a NAPS parent, licensed mental health therapist, yoga/mindfulness teacher, corporate wellness expert and founder of The School of MOM and Parent Wellness Group. Jamie and Sarah talk about self doubt and give a step by step guide to decision making in order to limit self doubt.

Discussed in this episode: -Internal judgement -External judgment -Parenting -Self doubt -Guidance -Establishing a support system -Decision making -Gut instincts

Contact Sarah: The School of Mom https://www.theschoolofmom.com/ The Parent Wellness Group https://www.parentwellnessgroup.com/ FREE QUIZ: https://www.theschoolofmom.com/quiz

Nurture Membership: https://boston-naps.teachable.com/

Episode # 107: The Truth about the First Time Expecting Parent Apr 09, 2023

Are you pregnant? Are you overwhelmed with the amount of products and advertising that are targeted toward new families? Jamie and Emily offer guidance on prenatal preparation and pregnancy/ new parent education. Let NAPS support your family and prepare you for what to expect (and how to set yourself up for success!).

Discussed in this episode: -Mental health -Pushing in labor -Communication -Life skills -Prenatal education -Supportive parenting -Pregnancy -Baby prep -Parenting prep -Birth education -First time parents

NAPS Prenatal Education: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/pregnancy

NAPS Pre Baby Bootcamp: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/pre-baby-bootcamp

NAPS Membership (including 24 hour Ask a Nurse): https://boston-naps.teachable.com/ ***Annual membership includes Pre Baby Bootcamp

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ *code:NAPSFAMILY

Episode # 106: The Truth About Anxiety from a Real NAPS mom with Guest Christine Lawson Apr 02, 2023

Emily is joined by NAPS parent, Christine Lawson, to discuss her personal experience and recovery from perinatal anxiety and depression.

Discussed in this episode: -Perinatal mood disorders -Postpartum anxiety -Postpartum depression -Anger and irritability -Obsessive thoughts -Intrusive thoughts -Peer support -Therapy -Medication -Living with anxiety -Seeking help

If you are struggling with a perinatal mood disorder(pregnancy and beyond), we are here for you. Please find us @nurturebynaps. Email hello@nurturebynaps.com or call (857) 496-5095.

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ *code: NAPSFAMILY

Perinatal Helpline (24 hours): Postpartum Support International You are not alone and you are not to blame. Help is available. You will get better. HelpLine (call or text): 1.800.944.4773

Episode #105: The Truth About Launch Mar 26, 2023

It has been a long time coming— Jamie and Emily are here to talk about the building of Nurture by NAPS, it's original launch and now it's relaunch! Mark your calendars, big things are coming on April 18th, 2023 (finally!!).

Parenting is hard enough, we want to make it easier to find the answers and support that you are looking for from trusted parents & medical professionals.

Check out our membership options: https://boston-naps.teachable.com/

Mentioned in this episode: -Customized parenting -Peer support -Personalized parenting -Postpartum resources -Pregnancy resources -Sleep consulting -Newborn Sleep

NAPS discount codes from our sponsors:

Proactive Puffs from Mission MightyMe make it easy to feed your little one peanuts AND tree nuts - and big kids love them too!

*Visit missionmightyme.com to learn more and use UNSWADDLED20 for 20% off your first order.

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ *code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode # 104: The Truth About Our Expectations with Guest Sarah Harmon Mar 19, 2023

If you know NAPS, you know Sarah Harmon. Sarah is a NAPS parent, licensed mental health therapist, yoga/mindfulness teacher, corporate wellness expert and founder of The School of MOM and Parent Wellness Group. This week, Sarah puts Emily in the hot seat to talk about her current overload and high expectations of herself.

Discussed in this episode: Postpartum Anxiety Parenting Expectations High and lows of parenting Mental health Working parents

Contact Sarah: The School of Mom https://www.theschoolofmom.com/ The Parent Wellness Group https://www.parentwellnessgroup.com/

Nurture Membership: https://boston-naps.teachable.com/

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ code: NAPSFAMILY

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

Episode # 103: The Truth About Emily and Jamie as Labor and Delivery Nurses Mar 13, 2023

Jamie and Emily recount stories from their time working together as labor and delivery nurses and the start of their friendship.

Nurture Membership: https://boston-naps.teachable.com/

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ code: NAPSFAMILY

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

Episode # 102: The Truth About Finances After Having a Baby with Guest Kendra Kearney Mar 06, 2023

This week Emily is joined by Kendra E. Kearney, APMA®, of the Rise Private Wealth Management team. Kendra joins NAPS to discuss wealth management and financial family planning.

FREE FAMILY FINANCIAL CHECKLIST: https://lps.nurturebynaps.com/rise

Discussed in this episode: -Expenses -Family finances -Childcare -College Savings -Family planning -Retirement -Financial goals -Financial management -Working mom -Emergency planning -Wealth management

Contact Kendra: https://www.ameripriseadvisors.com/kendra.kearney/

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode #101: The Truth About Your Parenting Questions Feb 27, 2023

This week Jamie and Emily take “Moment for Mom” to the podcast in honor of surpassing their 100th episode production. In this episode you can expect real life advice from real life questions from fellow NAPS parents (like potty training, bottle feeding, sleep, and more).

Discussed in this episode: -Potty training -Toddler sleep -Picky eaters -Parenting -Sibling prep -Discipline -Sleep training -Bottle feeding -Postpartum -Formula feeding

Nurture Membership: https://boston-naps.teachable.com/

Live Webinars & Events https://www.nurturebynaps.com/live-webinars

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/

code: NAPSFAMILY

Other podcasts mentioned in this episode: Referenced in this episode: Breastfeeding- Episode 10 Picky eating- Episode 36& 55 Real mom talk & sleep- Episode 44 Postpartum / formula- Episode 46

Be sure to follow us on instagram to ask your Moment for Mom question on Monday nights!

Episode # 100: The Truth About Burnout with Guest Dr. Shelly Bhowmik Feb 20, 2023

Emily is joined by Dr. Shelly Bhowmik, MD, MPH, founder of Platform Wellness, and a double board certified physician. Dr. Bhowmik specializes in preventative medicine and lifestyle medicine. On this week’s podcast, Dr. Bhowmik and Emily discuss all things burnout. What is burnout? What does burnout mean? How do you prevent it? How do you know if you have it?

Mentioned in this episode: -Burnout -Corporate lifestyle -Working parents -Preventing burnout -Stress -Mindset and wellbeing -Quality of life -Treating mental health -Anxiety -Depression -Characteristics of burnout -Positive habit forming -Physical activity, health, and sleep -Restorative rest

Resources from this episode: Website: https://www.shellybhowmik.com/ Dr. Shelly’s Free Masterclass: https://www.shellybhowmik.com/masterclass Podcasts w/ Dr. Shelly https://www.shellybhowmik.com/media

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ code: NAPSFAMILY

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

Episode # 99: The Truth about Choking and How to Respond Feb 13, 2023

As a follow up to our CPR episode, Jamie and Emily talk CHOKING and all you need to know.

Discussed in this episode: -Choking -CPR -Emergency response -Starting solids -Gagging -Choking vs. Gagging -Life saving skills -Gasping -Back blows -Heimlich maneuver -Infant and child CPR

Book CPR with NAPS: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/infant-child-cpr

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/

code: NAPSFAMILY

Be sure to follow us on instagram for more on CPR & choking.

Episode #98: The Truth About Language Development Feb 06, 2023

Jamie is joined by Lenora Edward, Speech Language Pathologist (SLP), to discuss language development, speech, listening, and warning signs. As an SLP, Lenora describes her self as a specialist that works “above the neck”—think feeding, socialization, listening, talking, communicating, etc…

Discussed in this episode: -Feeding -Eating -Speech -Language -Communicating with your child -Cognitive skills -Swallowing -Understanding language -Expressing language -Language development -Nonverbal communication -Pandemic -Mask wearing -Facial expressions -Warning signs -Growth and development -Face to face interaction -American Speech and Language Board -Early intervention

Speech Resources: Find a professional: https://www.betterspeech.com/

Book a free consultation with Better Speech: https://www.betterspeech.com/free-consultation

Sponsors: The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/

code: NAPSFAMILY

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

Episode # 97: The Truth about postpartum care in the US vs. other countries Jan 30, 2023

Postpartum care — the way it should be. Jamie and Emily discuss what is missing from postpartum care, their mission at NAPS and share the postpartum care they envision for families. Be sure to check out our in home day of discharge service: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/day-of-discharge

Mentioned in this episode: -Incision check -Postpartum recovery -Home health care -Support -Visiting nurse -Internatal postpartum support -Incision check -Postpartum recovery -Support -Nursing care -Education -Continuity of care -Pain management -Hospital transiitons -Sick kids -Wellness visits -Lactation consults -Mom support -Lactation support -Peer support -Sleep support -Optimal health outcomes

Follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps.

Join a New Mom’s Support Group: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/moms-survival-guide

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode #96: The Truth About Trauma and Motherhood with Guest Christina Cartwright Jan 23, 2023

On this week’s episode, Emily is joined by NAPS mom, Christina Cartwright. Christina discusses her medical trauma, being a woman of color in the healthcare system, and her difficult journey to motherhood. Now she views motherhood as her superpower and is on a mission to change how the world views motherhood.

Discussed in this episode:

-Life changing moments -Identity evolution -Trauma before motherhood -Medical trauma -Women of color in the healthcare system -Healthcare injustice -Chronic pain -Fibroid tumors -Self advocation -Dermoid cyst -Real motherhood -Parenting support -Parenting resources -Support behind motherhood -Health care disparity  -SAHM -Education -Shedding a new light on motherhood -Preparing for parenting -Rebranding motherhood

Here’s to always keeping it real. Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps & @mommy_cartwright

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/

code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode # 95: The Truth About CPR: Why Everyone Should Know It Jan 16, 2023

Jamie and Emily discuss CPR: all you need to know. This is a must listen for all— parents, caregivers, and anyone who is around other human beings! Make this the year that everyone learns CPR. This episode prepares you for what to do until help arrives on scene and how to save a life.

Discussed in this episode: -CPR -Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation -Infant and Child CPR -Safety -Life saving skills -Compressions -Rescue Breaths -Calling 911 -Emergency Response -Life saving skills -Brain damage -Heart and lungs -Unresponsive -Not breathing

Resources: Book a virtual or private CPR class with NAPS: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/infant-child-cpr

American Heart Association Certification: https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class?scode=PSG00000E017&ds_rl=1289062cid=generator&med=cpc&source=google&gclid=CjwKCAiA2fmdBhBpEiwA4CcHzWnQBHrcPMxWMqvXyhCmSI66nUfZKsuDQxfOhsZ9TUc4a4O74OOgNhoCShQQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/

code: NAPSFAMILY

Follow us for reels and more CPR info @nurturebynaps

Episode # 94: The Truth About Being a Working Mom with Guest Katie Thompson Jan 09, 2023

Emily is joined by Katie Thompson from WCVB, the Eye Opener. Katie is a NAPS parent, news anchor, reporter, and badass working mom. Emily and Katie talk about their experience as working parents and navigating the first year of her daughter’s life.

Discussed in this episode: -One year old transitions -Toddler schedules -Comparing your kids -Milestones -Development -First birthday -Working moms -Childcare -Wake Windows -Dr. Google -Dropping naps -Schedule -Routine -Navigating childcare -Parent to parent -Navigating the first year of life

For more be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps. Find Katie @katiee_t.

Join our New Mom Support group: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/moms-survival-guide

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/

code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode # 93: The Truth About Last Year Jan 02, 2023

As the new year rolls in, Jamie and Emily discuss the (mostly) highs and lows of 2022. From business endeavors and expansion to maternity leave and transitions, Jamie and Emily offer more insight in what goes on behind the scenes at NAPS.

Discussed in this episode: -Postpartum support -Validation for parents -Working parents -Maternity leave -Covid -Sleep training -Transitions -Parenting -Female founded company -Women in business -Local business -Success and struggles -Business expansion -Self funded business -Healthcare -Familial support -Grandparent education -Newborn care -Bringing home baby -Best places to work -40 under 40 -Nurture by naps -Parental education

Here’s to a healthy & happy 2023! Follow us @nurturebynaps

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode # 92: The Truth About Conscious Diapers with Guest and CEO Samantha McCord Dec 26, 2022

This week Emily is joined by guest, Samantha McCord, Founder and CEO of Conscious Diapers. Conscious Diapers is a price matched, subscription diaper service that helps parents find the right diapers for their baby by auditing each brand based on Ingredients, Environmental Impact, Animal Cruelty, human rights, and performance. Conscious diapers makes the overwhelming world of diapers, a lot more simple.. and convenient!

Discussed in this episode: -Diapers -Diaper subscription service -Animal cruelty -Performance diapers -Eco friendly diapers -Newborn diapers -Diapering -Diaper sizing -Diapers for sensitive skin -Diaper rash -Parents choice -Delivery schedule -Animal testing -Skin conditions -newborns -toddlers -potty training

Conscious Diapers Resources: https://www.consciousdiapers.com/

https://www.consciousdiapers.com/pages/wtf

Instagram @consciousdiapers

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/

code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode #91: The Truth about Letting Go Dec 19, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child’s future.

In honor of the holiday season, and the stress and pressure that often accompanies this time of year, Emily and Jamie discuss what it means to “let it go”. Let the things that do not matter to you GO! If it matters to you, then you find a way…. if not, let it go. Wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season!

Discussed in this episode: -Picking your battles -Outsourcing -Christmas cards -School outfits -What matters to you -What does not matter to you -Things you try to control -Stress -Approaching the holidays -Parenting

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps.

The Silver Post (perfect gift for grandparents and loved ones): https://www.hello.thesilverpost.com/ code: NAPSFAMILY

Episode #90: The Truth About Playing Fair in Your Marriage with Guest Julia Ludwig Dec 12, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child’s future.

This week Emily is joined by wellness coach, mom, certified Fair Play facilitator, and yoga instructor, Julia Ludwig. The Fair Play Method is a communication system that helps to rebalance the invisible labor within the home with the goals of reducing the chaos of daily life, strengthening one’s partnership with their spouse, and creating space for individual pursuits.

Discussed in this episode: - Fair Play in marriage - Investing in your family - Investing in your marriage - Household responsibilities - Helping moms - Connection - Avoiding resentment - Correcting resentment - Bonding with family - Supporting your family - Gender roles - Division of labor - Time sensitive matters - Mental load - Daily tasks - CPE - Conception, planning, execution - Letting go - Tools for wellness - Equity - Couple coaching - Maternal gatekeeping - Fair Play facilitator - Household labor - Motherhood - SAHM - equitable - NOT equal

Resources mentioned in this episode: FairPlaylife.com Documentary: FairPlay Instagram: @FairPlaylife Julia’s website: https://www.julialudwigwellness.com/

Instagram:@julia_ludwig_

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

Episode #89: The Truth About Infertility Dec 05, 2022

TW: Infant loss. This week Emily is joined by Amanda Lauren--interior design expert, writer, podcaster, and momma to be! Amanda opens up about her fertility struggles, experience with infant loss and navigating her pregnancy.

Discussed in this episode: -Miscarriage -Terminal pregnancy -Infertility -Ivf -Infertility as a medical condition -lgbtq+ conception -Insurance limitations -Fertility medications -Basal body temp -Natural cycles -Fertility challenges -Hormones -Injections -Egg health -Finding the right provider -Switching providers -1 in 4 -Reaching out for help -Mental health support

For Nursery design articles and more interior expertise, be sure to check out Amanda on Instagram @itsamandalauren.

Follow us on instagram @Nurturebynaps

Episode # 88: The Truth about Sibling Prep Nov 28, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child’s future.

After many questions regarding sibling prep and baby # 2 (and so on...), Jamie and Emily offer their wisdom on bringing home a new baby and how to best prepare your family.

Discussed in this episode: -Prepping for a sibling -2 under 2 -Older sibling prep during pregnancy -Imaginary play -Additional explanation for younger kids -Play area for toddler -Play area for baby -Jobs for older sibling -Maintaining schedules & routine -Consistency -Communication -Implementing change before baby -Uninterrupted play -One on one time -Challenging behavior -Regressions -Childcare -Postpartum support

For more, follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

Episode # 87: The Truth About Flying with Kids Nov 21, 2022

Kids are unpredictable… flying with kids can also be unpredictable but not to worry! This week, Jamie is joined by Kendra Koch, from Rent-a-Romper, and mom who has flown 30+ flights with her 2 years old daughter. Jamie and Kendra share all their tips, tricks, experiences, and their travel favorites.

Discussed in this episode: -Breastfeeding -Packing -Checked bags -Traveling with toddlers -Traveling with animals -Bedtime -Sleeping on planes -Time change -Cleanliness -Traveling alone with kids -Lessons learned along the way -Travel safety -Car trips -Scheduling flights -Planning/ planning for emergencies

Rent-a-Romper: www.rentaromper.com

instagram.com/rentaromper

tiktok.com/@rentaromper

Kendra Koch: instagram.com/kendrarkoch linkedin.com/in/kendrarkoch

Products Kendra Loves: -Breathable baby carrier for newborns (doesn't overheat and packs up into a tiny bag so doesn't take up space) -Convertible baby carrier for toddlers (to get through security and free up hands) -GB Pockit Air stroller or this very affordable Cosco umbrella stroller

-Stroller backpack bag for the Pockit Stroller (which fits in the overhead bin) -Lightweight Cosco "Scenera Next" car seat (can put right on the plane) -Car seat protector (if you check or gate check) -Reusable sticker house for toddlers (to keep them busy without waste) -Interactive snack container for toddlers (to keep them busy and avoid hangry meltdowns) -Magnetic drawing board for toddlers -Toddler backpack (to stash toys and snacks and give them autonomy)

Episode # 86: The Truth About Everyone Being Sick Nov 14, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child’s future.

With return to school and winter quickly approaching… ’tis this season of illness. Jamie and Emily share their lessons learned & advice for cold and flu season, as well as planning for staying home from school/ work.

Discussed in this episode: -Sick season -Childcare -RSV -Flu -HFM -Hand foot and mouth disease -Staying home from work -Staying home from school -Stay home -Liquid Medication -Children medication -Chewable medication -Newborns -Visitors -Sick toddlers -Asking for help -Sick visits

Follow us for more @nurturebynaps

Episode # 85: The Truth About Raising Anti-Racist Kids with Annie Gichuru Nov 07, 2022

This week, Jamie is joined by Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) coach and consultant, founder of Uplifting Studios, and mama of two, Annie Gichuru. Annie is dedicated to supporting online business owners in building racially equitable businesses so they can be intentionally inclusive. Annie and Jamie discuss the work they have done together as well as the parallels between business & parenting in raising anti-racist children.

Mentioned in this episode: -Diversity -Inclusion -Equity -Anti-racism -Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) -Racially conscious -Parallels between business and parenting -Representation -Privilege and advantage -Understanding unique human experiences -Learning -implicit bias -Over coming fear -Doing the work to be anti racist -Speaking up -Challenging your biases -Relearning history

Website: https://www.upliftingstudios.com.au/

Instagram: @upliftingstudiostv

Be sure to follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

Episode # 84: The Truth About Daylight Savings with Kids Oct 30, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child’s future.

There are two types of parents in this world— the parents that prepare for daylight savings….and the parents that don’t. You can guess where Jamie and Emily stand on this topic. In honor of our LAST “fall back”, the ladies of NAPS offer a few different approaches to adjusting to daylight savings and best preparing your family for the change.

Discussed in this episode: -Daylight savings -Adjusting sleep schedules -Younger kids -Older kids -Toddler sleep -Back to school schedules -Naps -Leading up to daylight savings -Early wake ups -Slow transitions -Adjustment period

For more on daylight savings follow us on @Nurturebynaps

Episode # 83 : The Truth About Pregnancy and Infant Loss with Juliet Keeler Lebien, LCSW-R & LICSW Oct 23, 2022

In honor of October being Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, Emily is joined by Juliet Keeler Lebien, LCSW-R & LICSW, clinical with over 10 years (almost 20 years) of experience, and specialist in pregnancy and infant loss to discuss complicated grieving.

Discussed in this episode: -Infant loss -Conceptualizing loss -Community -Uncomfortable topics -Maternal health -Bereavement services -What you shouldn’t say to people who have experienced loss -Shame -Defining your story -Navigating loss -Comforting words -Spiritual beliefs -Being there for the bereaved -Bereaved parents -Trauma informed care -Living through grief -Lacking resources -Resources through grief -1 in 4 women

Resources mentioned in this episode: Juliet’s email: juliet@lebienpsych.com Juliet’s website: https://lebienpsych.com/

Return to Zero

Follow us on IG @ nurturebynaps

Episode #82: Mom on Mom Bullying Oct 16, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child’s future.

In respect to National Bullying Prevention Month, this week’s podcast’s theme is Mom on Mom Bullying. Jamie and Emily discuss the challenges, comparisons, and complexities of being a parents and offer tactics for improving how we talk to ourselves and offer compassion to others.

Mentioned in this episode: -Mom bullying -Mom shame -Judgment -Inclusion -Self blame -Rejection -Social media -Exclusion -Gossip -Internet bullying -Positive feedback -Positive reinforcement -Supporting others -Women supporting women -Nurturing oneself -Challenging behaviors -Bullying prevention

For more, follow us on IG @nurturebyNAPS

Episode # 81: The Truth About C Sections Oct 09, 2022

A pregnancy/labor episode for ALL. Jamie and Emily encourage all birthing parents to listen and prepare for c-section births (whether it is scheduled or unplanned).

Discussed in this episode: -Scheduled C section -Cesarian birth -Preparing for you labor -Vaginal delivery -C section -Natural birth -Pain management -Birth scenarios -Common c-section scenarios -Breech babies -C section recovery -Pelvic floor PT -C-section scar message -Incontinence -Leaking urine -Postpartum sex -Asking for help -Preparing for help -Scheduled and unplanned c section -Skin to skin -Postpartum poops

Follow us on Instagram @nurturebynaps

Episode # 80:The Truth About Lactation Consultations Oct 02, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Learn more how you can use the money to pay for qualified expenses at Fidelity.com/uFund

Emily is joined by NAPS parent, Alesandra, to recount her experience with seeking lactation support. Alesandra and Emily emphasize that there does not need to be an apparent “problem” to utilize lactation professionals.

Discussed in this episode: -Open and honest conversation with healthcare providers -Patient advocacy -Breastfeeding & bottle feeding -Combination feeding -Low milk supply -Feeding options -Evidence based care -Hospital birth -Postpartum recovery -Conflicting information -Preventative care -Lactation support & reassurance -CLC/ IBCLC

Lactation intake form: We provide both in person (MA) and virtual support (nationally). https://www.nurturebynaps.com/lactation-consult

Be sure to follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

Episode# 79: The Truth about Vasectomies Sep 26, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Learn more how you can use the money to pay for qualified expenses at Fidelity.com/uFund

As a follow up to our last episode discussing circumcisions, Jamie is back with urologist, Dr. Peter L. Steinberg to chat all things vasectomy.

Discussed on this episode:

-Vasectomy procedure

-Vasectomy recovery

-Vasectomy Success

-Vasectomy Risks

-Vasectomy Benefits

-Urology

-Birth control

-Sterilization

-Postpartum Sex

-Vasectomy Surgery Prep

-FAQ

-Tubal ligation

-Finding a vasectomy provider

-Sterilization

For more information on Vasectomies check out the AUA Vasectomy Guidelines.

Be sure to follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

Episode# 78: The Truth about Circumcision Sep 19, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Learn more how you can use the money to pay for qualified expenses at Fidelity.com/uFund

This week, Jamie is joined by Dr. Peter L. Steinberg, NAPS parent and Urologist to discuss all things circumcision.

Discussed in this episode: -Circumcision care -Circumcision risk -Circumcisions vs no circumcision -Penile infections -Circumcision recovery -Newborn circumcisions -Adult circumcisions -Pain -Pain management -Circumcision methods -Circumcision FAQ -Complications after surgery

Resources from medical resources recommended by Dr. Steinberg: AUA (Urology) -- https://www.auanet.org//about-us/policy-and-position-statements/circumcision

AAP (Pediatrics) -- https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/130/3/585/30235/Circumcision-Policy-Statement

CDC position statement -- focused largely on STI and UTI prevention -- https://stacks.cdc.gov/view/cdc/58456

AAFP (Family physicians) -- https://www.aafp.org/about/policies/all/neonatal-circumcision.html

Follow us on IG for more @nurturebyNAPS.

Episode #77: The Truth About Sleep and Why Ellen Should Help You Sep 12, 2022

This week, Emily is joined by our very own NAPS Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, Ellen McCue. Ellen is our in house pediatric specialist, sleep expert, potty training expert, and sounding board for all things baby/children/family. In the episode, Emily and Ellen discuss her role at NAPS and all she can offer to support your family, in whatever way best fits your family’s needs.

Discussed in this episode: -Pediatric providers -Sleep consulting -Sleep expert -Newborn sleep -Toddler sleep -Pediatric support -Clinical assessments -Healthy babies -High acuity babies -Safe sleep training -Specific sleep training -Daytime sleep -Daycare sleep -Ellen’s pearls of wisdom

Be sure to follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

If you are interested in the NAPS membership— be sure to check out our monthly and annual options. https://www.nurturebynaps.com/

Episode # 76: The Truth About Childcare Options Sep 05, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Learn more how you can use the money to pay for qualified expenses at Fidelity.com/uFund

As back to school is around the corner and many are returning to work— Jamie and Emily join forces to discuss childcare options… and each of their pros/cons.

Discussed in this episode: -Daycare -Nanny -Nanny share -Au pairs -Family -Private daycare -Finding childcare -Illness -Cost -Socialization

Follow us on IG for more @nurturebyNAPS.

Episode #75: The Truth About Being a Working Mom Aug 29, 2022

Jamie is joined by, Christine Michael Carter — mom, speaker, and author of MOM AF. Christine’s work focuses on empowering working moms to feel more confident in their current roles and feel more supported/empowered in their careers.

Discussed in this episode: -Childcare -Childcare crisis -Working moms -Single moms -Women in leadership positions -Peer support -Wage gap -Preparing for leave -Peer support -Returning to work -Mental health -Women in the workforce -Equity for working mothers -Recognizing women in the workplace

Find Christine online @: https://christinemichelcarter.com/

On instagram @cmichelcarter Books: MOM AF and Can Mommy Go To Work?

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

Episode # 74: The Truth about Childcare and School Transitions Aug 22, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child’s future.

It is that time of year again— back to school! As you are your family gear up for back to school, Jamie and Emily offer advice about these transitions and tell a few stories along the way.

Discussed in this episode: Transitions School drop off Morning routine Back to school School drop off Routine Preparation Consistency Summer routine

Follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

Episode # 73 : The Truth About 7 Years of No Sleep, Baby Jail and Piggy Aug 15, 2022

This podcast episode is brought to you by MEFA. Go to https://www.mefa.org/save/u-fund-college-investing-plan to learn more about how to start saving for your child’s future.

This week, Emily discusses the evolution (over the last 7 years) of sleep/sleep training for her oldest daughter Grace. Grace recently celebrated her 7th birthday and turned the corner in the sleep department. Emily brings light to her trials and tribulations of all things sleep.

Discussed in this episode: -Naps -Daytime naps -wake windows -sleep training -the chair method -Bringing home baby -Challenging toddler behaviors -Sleep studies

Follow us on IG for a trip down memory lane regarding all things Grace & sleep @nurturebyNAPS.

Episode # 72: The Truth about Vacationing with Kids Aug 08, 2022

On this week’s episode, Jamie and Emily share their personal vacation styles, that drastically differ…just like their bedtime routines.

Discussed in this episode: -Enjoying vacation -Planning for the unexpected -Flying with kids -Finding a babysitter on vacation -Date night -Traveling with kids -Hired help -Vacationing with family -Resetting expectations -Asking for help

Let us know your vacation hacks by tagging us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Episode # 71: Real (Parent) Talk: Vinita and The Truth About Triple Feeding Aug 01, 2022

Emily is joined by NAPS parent, Vinita. Together they talk all things pregnancy, health, motherhood, and the difficulties life can throw our way.

Discussed in this episode: -Low milk supply -Postpartum recovery -Prepping for postpartum -Triple feeding -Lactation struggles -Breastfeeding -Supplementation -Mom support groups -Hypothyroid -IUGR -Formula -Early induction -C-section -Formula shortage -Birth education

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps. To book a lactation visit please, follow this page: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/lactation-consult

Episode # 70: Self Compassion with Sarah Harmon Jul 25, 2022

Welcome guest, Sarah Harmon, (back) to the podcast! Sarah is a fellow girl mom, Licensed Mental Health Therapist, founder of The School of Mom and Postpartum Wellness Group, and invaluable resource regarding mental health and well being.

Discussed in this episode: -Parenting oneself -Mindfullness -Self compassionate -Self doubt -Parenting -Mom guilt -Self shame -Mental Health

School of Mom Program: https://www.theschoolofmom.com/momprogram22 ** If you are interested in seeing an experienced mental health clinician (who is also a mom), please reach out to hello@postartumwellnessgroup.com

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Episode # 69: Real (Parent) Talk with Scott and Ben: The Truth About 6 Month Old Changes Jul 18, 2022

Emily is joined by NAPS dads, Ben and Scott, and their sweet baby Knox.

On this episode, we discuss: -6 month changes -Sleep schedule -Schedule -Feeding -Traveling with a newborn -Vacation -Safety proofing -Naps -Short naps -Distracted feeders -Starting solids -Allergies -Early bedtime -Bedtime -Developmental milestones -Dropping naps

Follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps

Episode # 68 : Real (Parent) Talk: The Truth About Bringing a Second Baby Home Jul 11, 2022

This week, Emily is joined by real NAPS parent, Delia, to go over all things toddler and welcoming a new sibling (from the toddler’s perspective).

Discussed in this episode: -Potty training -Moving out of the crib -Weaning from a pacifier -Pandemic baby -2 year old transitions -Independent toddlers -Sibling prep -Biting -Toddler behavior -Daycare -Routine -Extra help -Bedtime routine -Crib transitions -Bringing home baby -Bedtime

Be sure to follow us on IG @nurturebynaps and check out the Nature Membership to access webinars like “Sibling Prep” and “Potty Training”.

Episode # 67: The Truth About Bottle Refusals Jul 04, 2022

As of late, we have frequently been asked about bottle refusals. We are seeing a significant amount of babies who have taken a bottle in their early life and who are now refusing, as well as babies who have never taken a bottle before…ever! Do not fret— we are here for you with the tips & tricks!!

Mentioned in this episode: -Introducing a bottle -Bottle refusals -When to introduce a bottle -How to introduce a bottle -Formula -Pumping -Return to work -Exclusive breastfeeding -Nipple confusion -Favorite bottles for a picky baby -Daycare -Childcare -Bottle consults -Bottle refusal course

To book a bottle consult or purchase the bottle refusal course, check out our website linked below:

https://www.nurturebynaps.com/

IG @ nurturebynaps

Episode #66: The Truth About Being A Good Employer Jun 27, 2022

This year we're voted Best Places to Work by the Boston Business Journal. On this episode, we discuss our (11+ year) journey to getting there!

The biggest THANK YOU….to our nurses, our admins, and our executive team, and to our lovely clients. We wouldn’t be where we are today with NAPS, including being excited to go to work everyday, if it wasn’t for all of you.

We respect you, we appreciate you, and we love you.

On this episode Jamie and Emily discuss: -Job growth -Leaving the hospital -Corporate limitations -Leading by example -Balancing family life and work life -Positive culture -Core values -Lessons learned -Business and friendship -Having difficult conversations -Caring about your employees -Team Building

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

Episode # 65: The Truth About Exercise in Pregnancy and Postpartum Jun 20, 2022

Jamie is joined by Juliana Galante PT, DPT, PCES, to discuss exercise in the pregnancy and postpartum period. Juliana focuses on supporting birthing parents and their goals to feel like their best selves through physical therapy, strength, and conditioning.

Mentioned in this episode: -Postpartum exercise -Postbaby workouts -Exercise in pregnancy -Physical therapy -Enjoying exercise -Injury prevention -Corrective exercise

How to connect/work with Juliana: Back bay health (724) 554-2795 Instagram @pacer_physicaltherapy https://www.pacerphysicaltherapy.com/ Stroller bootcamp: Wednesday this Spring-Summer at 10:30 am, in the Boston Commons 12 week PP course: https://www.pacerphysicaltherapy.com/MovinMomCourse

Follow NAPS on instagram @nurturebynaps

Episode # 64: Colic and Bottle Refusals - The hardest NAPS baby to date Jun 13, 2022

Emily is joined by Danni Ward, NAPS mom and career and leadership coach. Danni also holds the deserving title of mom to “The Hardest NAPS Baby to Date”. Emily and Danni discuss the challenging weeks and months that led Danni to seek out support from her community and how the birth of her daughter changed her life.

Discussed in this episode: -Colic -Gas -Reflux -Elimination diet -Breast refusal -Bottle refusal -Postpartum struggles -PPD -PPA -Nursing strike -Maternity leave -Returning to work -Self compassion -Mental health -Therapy -Parental Support

Contact Danni: https://www.dwcoachingandconsulting.com Email: danni@dwcoach.com

Mentioned in this episode: Mom’s Support Groups https://www.nurturebynaps.com/moms-survival-guide Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

Episode # 63: From your Ab Core to Your Pelvic Floor Jun 06, 2022

Emily is joined by Pelvic Floor Physical Therapist, Alex DiGrado of Boston Pelvic PT. The ladies chat everything from birth to your 6-week postpartum check up (and beyond) & more.

Discussed in this episode: -Postpartum pain -Postpartum sex -Postpartum follow up -Postpartum services -Hemorrhoids -Pelvic floor PT -Leaking urine -Constipation -Training your bladder -Painful sex -Breastfeeding -Scar massage -Sex after baby -C-section recovery -Vaginal birth recovery -Exercise -Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy

FInd Alex: https://bostonpelvicpt.com/ @bostonpelvicpt on Instagram

For more on pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, follow us on IG @nurturebyNAPS.

Purchase: online course Postpartum Essentials: Heal from your Pelvic Floor to your Core HERE:

https://thehealthypelvisproject.podia.com

DISCOUNT CODE: NAPS to save

Episode # 62: Birthing in Confidence May 30, 2022

This week Jamie is joined by Sujata Martin— Pelvic floor OT, licensed doula, breastfeeding specialist, and sex therapist.

Discussed on this podcast: -Better pregnancy -Better birth -Better postpartum -Physical aspects of pregnancy, labor and postpartum -Bridging education from different sources -Labor logistics -Labor prep -Communication with your provider -Integrative care -Pelvic floor pt -Prepping for labor -Preventative care -Feelings about birth -Real life advice -Understanding what your body in pregnancy & postpartum

Find Sujata @pelvic.soul on instagram and follow us @nurturebynaps.

Episode # 61: The Formula Shortage May 23, 2022

Jamie and Emily cover the formula shortage— a topic that is close to our hearts and deserves attention, education, and proper recommendations/support.

***This episode was filmed on 5/12, and we understand that this is an evolving situation. For the latest updates and recommendations, follow us on instagram @nurturebynaps.

Discussed in this episode: -Where to find formula -Where to look for alternatives -Continuing breastfeeding -Risks associated with breastfeeding -Mental health -Supply chain -Formula recall -Formula market -European formulas -AAP recommendations -community resources -medical resources

Other resources on Facebook: -Nurture by NAPS Community Board -humanmilk4humanbabies Massachusetts https://www.facebook.com/HM4HBMA/

Episode # 60: NICU Questions May 16, 2022

Jamie is joined by neonatologist, Dr. Jennifer Benjamin, to talk all things NICU. The ladies first met during Dr. Benjamin’s pregnancy and then connected again through lactation support. Now, a few years later, Jamie and Dr. Benjamin sit down to discuss the unique aspects of experiencing the NICU and adjusting to life at home.

Discussed in this episode: - Adjusted age - Growth and development - Full term gestation - Planned & unplanned NICU stays - What to do for corrected age - Sleep training - Immunizations - Chronologic age - Growth chart - Growth curve - Starting solids - Early allergy introduction - Added calories - NICU stay - Advice for a NICU stay - NICU support - Follow up support - Peer support - Milestones

For more information follow us on IG @ nurturebynaps

Episode # 59: How Not to Hate Your Partner After You Become Parents May 09, 2022

Emily is joined by Meredith Silversmith, licensed marriage and family therapist, co-founder of Nassau Wellness, and and NAPS mom to talk relationships after baby.

Discussed on this episode:

-Partner communication -Relationship changes -Difficult conversations -Delegation -Asking for help -Partner needs -Counseling -Making time for your partner -Partner bonding -Quality time -Relationship building

Referenced in this episode/ how to reach Meredith: Website: nassauwellness.com/meredith Email: meredith@nassauwellness.com Instagram: @happymarriage.coach

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

Episode #58: Growth Charts— Bigger Isn’t Better May 02, 2022

This week, Unswaddled is joined by Ellen McCue— our pediatric Nurse Practitioner, girl mom of 2, sleep expert, and full time NAPS favorite. In her 14+ years of pediatric experience, Ellen has weighed a LOT of babies and discussed growth charts thousands of times. Pediatricians are not the enemy, it’s the growth chart!

Emily and Ellen discuss what the growth chart means, why it is used, where it is flawed, and when it is important (and not important).

Discussed in this episode: -low percentiles -high percentiles -falling off a growth curve -genetics -head growth, height, and weight -breastfeeding -bottle feeding -questions to ask your provider -CDC growth chart -WHO growth chart

Referenced in this article: 1. Link NY Times Article: The Trouble with Growth Charts https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/17/parenting/growth-chart-accuracy.html 2. 30 nursing consult https://www.nurturebynaps.com/phone-consult 3. Lactation support https://www.nurturebynaps.com/lactation-consult

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.com

Episode # 57: Blanket Statements Suck Apr 25, 2022

Blanket statements are NOT helpful. This week Jamie and Emily talk about all of the crazy statements that have heard over the years. As parents, we are hyper-vigilant and these statements are dangerous because they make space for more judgement (and who needs that?). It is important to remember that the intent is never malicious and what works for someone else is not meant to work for you. Every circumstance is different, every family is different and every baby is different.

Remember to ask yourself: -Who is the source? -What is the context? -Who should I ask for help (lactation, pediatrician, trusted friend)? -Where to look for information?

Send us your blanket statements @nurturebynaps on instagram. We can't wait to share.

Episode # 56: Exposure to Allergens with Lil Mixins Apr 18, 2022

As a follow up on allergies and starting solids, Emily is joined by Meenal Lele— owner and founder of Lil Mixins. Lil Mixins was founded with the purpose (and significant clinical research) to stop food allergies before they start, while making the process simple!

Meenal shares her story and what inspired her to prevent food allergies. Also discussed on this episode: -signs to look for with food allergies -allergy testing -asthma -eczema -early allergen introduction -food timeline -top allergens -peanuts/tree nuts -eggs -allergy prevention -how and when to introduce “high risk” foods -treatment vs prevention

Preorder The baby and the Biome

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/691027/baby-and-the-biome-the-by-meenal-lele-foreword-by-cezmi-akdis-md/

Lil Mixins website:

https://www.lilmixins.com/collections/infant-powders-new

For more, follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

Episode #55: Starting Solids Apr 11, 2022

Just as you find your feeding groove, it is time for solids! Jamie and Emily debunk many of the feeding myths and address what starting solids can look like.

Addressed in this episode: -Overwhelm of starting solids -Feeding schedule -Breastfeeding -Bottle feeding -Formula feeding -Baby led weaning -Purees -Common allergens -Overeating -Intuitive eating -Gagging -Iron rich foods -Choking vs gagging -Picky eaters

Additional resources: Join our (FREE!) live & recorded baby led weaning course: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/live-webinars

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Episode # 54: Intrusive Thoughts Apr 04, 2022

This week, Emily is joined by Julia Hale, NAPS mom, LICSW (licensed independent clinical social worker), owner and founder of Soultality Center for Psychotherapy. The focus of their conversation is on perinatal mental health and intrusive thoughts. Intrusive thoughts are something that we all have, but majorly stigmatized, and rarely discussed.

Other topics include: -engaging with intrusive thoughts -shame -thought vs action -postpartum OCD -exposure therapy -postpartum anxiety -postpartum OCD -postpartum depression -avoidance -rituals/ mental rituals -seeking out what a thought means -when to seek help -compulsion -therapy -heading

Intrusive thoughts thrive in secrecy. You are not alone.

Referenced in this episode & additional resources: Find a therapist trained in 'exposure and response prevention' (ERP) on www.IOCDF.org or www.treatmyocd.com

Episode # 53: Unswaddled Turns 1! Mar 28, 2022

Time really does fly! Unswaddled is officially 1 year old and we cannot thank you enough for your continued support in allowing us to do what we love. Jamie and Emily recap the changes that have happened over the course of the year in life, business, and parenting, as well as reflect on (many) lessons learned.

Topics include: - Starting a business - Building a business - The parallels between business and parenting - Acknowledging mistakes and MOVING on - No longer making excuses for mistakes - Learning to say sorry - Parenting struggles - School drop off/ routines - Changing perspectives - Taking action

Like and share this episode! Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Episode # 52: Maternal Gatekeeping Mar 21, 2022

On this episode, Jamie and Emily discuss maternal gatekeeping. This is a concept that addresses a mother’s protective beliefs regarding their partner’s involvement in their children’s life (especially in infancy)— more specifically, the behaviors between parents that support or restrict co-parenting. Jamie and Emily relive their dos and don’ts of maternal gatekeeping with personal stories.

Link to book a nursing consult:

https://www.nurturebynaps.com/phone-consult

Referenced in this episode:

How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids https://www.amazon.com/Hate-Your-Husband-After-Kids/dp/1784754773/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1647360371&sr=1-1

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Episode #51: Developmental Milestones Mar 14, 2022

This week Emily and Jamie sit down to discuss developmental milestones— a very hot topic after the CDC’s recent update to their guidelines. We understand that this is generally overwhelming and hope to give guidance on the meaning of the updated recommendations and early intervention services (known as “Family Ties” in Massachusetts).

Covered in this episode: - Early interventions — what is it? - What does EI involve? - Who applies for EI? - How to get an EI assessment? - How a milestone is classified - OT/ PT/ Speech - Advocating for your child - Referrals (you do not NEED one) - When to ask for help - Taking advantage of resources and support - 0 to 3 years old - Qualifications

Referenced in this episode: State by state list of early intervention programs:

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/parents/states.html

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps

Episode #50: It’s OK to Miss Your Old Self Mar 07, 2022

Emily is joined by NAPS mom, turned Mom Survival Guide leader, Meg Saxelby. Meg is an emotional intelligence coach and educator, working mom, and total bad*ss.

She joins our podcast to talk about her recent blog post, which is a topic near and dear to our heart: the change of self with pregnancy & motherhood.

Meg talks about: - Lack of resources on how to manage the emotional shift of becoming a mom. - Experiencing a loss during pregnancy or postpartum. - The socialization of women (the expectation that they are held to) - Physical and emotional transitions of pregnancy and motherhood - Feeling your feelings - Lack of control of your body - Pregnancy during cover - Feelings of loss/grief/anguish - Guilt vs. shame - Conflicting emotions

Mentioned in this episode: Meg’s blog: https://medium.com/@megansaxelby/its-ok-to-miss-who-you-were-2cf7e9278dea

NAPS MSG: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/moms-survival-guide

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Episode # 49: Weaning Feb 28, 2022

As promised, Emily’s postpartum series continues with her experience weaning from breastfeeding. To recap, Emily identified early on that Eloise had an allergy, and transitioned to formula. Unlike weaning with her older daughter’s, Emily recalls what it was like to wean Eloise (and how she did it) with a well established milk supply.

Jamie and Emily go over: -Weaning timelines and strategies -Reducing volume vs. reducing time -Quitting cold turkey -Different approached for different people -Hormonal shifts -Emotional shift -Mood swings & mom guilt -Mastitis -Asking for help

We are here to support you through your feeding joining. If you want an IBCLC consultation, pease follow this link:

https://www.nurturebynaps.com/inperson-lactation-consult-ga

Follow us for more content @nurturebynaps on Instagram.

Episode #48: The Jamie & Caro Sh*tshow Take 2 Feb 21, 2022

Caro, the lovely face and personality behind What to Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking, is back! This time Jamie sits in the hot-seat and Caro interviews Jamie about:

-Making time for family -A day in the life -Work/life/ kids/ work -City vs. suburbs -Morning routine -Parenting tips -Getting out the door with kids -Childcare -Setting expectations with nanny/childcare -Priorities -Finding a babysitter -Delegating tasks -Asking for help -Finding hired help (and setting expectations) -Business planning -Women supporting women

Mentioned in this episode:

Brene Brown Podcast:

https://brenebrown.com/podcast/brene-on-comparative-suffering-the-50-50-myth-and-settling-the-ball/

Caro’s Newsletter:

https://www.carolinechambers.com/newsletter

Blinkest App:

https://www.blinkist.com/?utm_source=gsn&utm_medium=paid&utm_campaign=6728014506&utm_content=78881840389&utm_term=blinkist%20app_e_388235911841_c_kwd-317250082707_Cj0KCQiA3rKQBhCNARIsACUEW_YBxBk_KkB25XJDFmhOQ_TOJCTyijJgwpHYlTgpy7A2qVXsr7f0ep0aApFTEALw_wcB&gclid=Cj0KCQiA3rKQBhCNARIsACUEW_YBxBk_KkB25XJDFmhOQ_TOJCTyijJgwpHYlTgpy7A2qVXsr7f0ep0aApFTEALw_wcB

Episode # 47: Breastfeeding a Baby with an Allergy Feb 14, 2022

As promised, Emily takes a deep dive into the struggles of feeding a baby (with or without an allergy) and the options that exist for feeding a baby with an allergy.

Emily talks through: -Judgement after birth -Nipple pain -Breastfeeding struggles -Pumping -Hating pumping -Allergy signs and symptoms -Eczema, constipation, diaper rash -Screaming vs. crying -Normal vs. abnormal newborn behavior -Elimination diet -Mom guilt -Societal pressures to continue breastfeeding

If you are looking to talk to an expert, use the link below to get 20% off a nursing consult (we can talk allergies, feeding struggles, or ANYTHING mom/baby/family).

We are always here to support you. Follow us @nurturebynaps

https://lps.nurturebynaps.com/virtual-nurse-consult

Episode # 46: Follow up on Emily’s Postpartum Plan Feb 07, 2022

SHE’S BACK!! Emily is back from maternity leave. Get ready for lots of stories and lessons learned from her sweet baby #3, Miss Eloise.

To recap, Emily left us with 5 maternity leave goals:

1. Sleep 2. Not obsessing about sleep 3. Ask for help (in a way of anticipation not desperation) 4. Not stress about breastfeeding or feeding the baby 5. Enjoy it

On this episode, Emily revisits these goals and talks anxiety, sleep deprivation, returning to work, relationship changes and the realities of bringing home a new baby.

P.S. The best time to set yourself up for success is before baby arrives. Don’t let it take baby #3 for you to master it.

Please follow link for 20% off a Mom Survival Guide:

https://lps.nurturebynaps.com/momssurvivalgroup

Episode # 45: Carseat Safety Jan 31, 2022

This week Jamie is joined by Sarah from CYBEX (one of our incredible sponsors) to discuss an often overwhelming topic— car seats & car seat safety!

Sarah offers insight, as mom of 2 and certified child passenger safety technician with 15 years experience on the following topics:

- Car seat confusion & overwhelm - Things to consider when deciding on a car seat - Car seat safety checks & regulatory standards - Why CYBEX?— above and beyond testing (for all crashes) - What features to look for in a carseat - City vs. Suburbs - Strollers - Age & Stages (transitions) - Booster seats - Traveling with kids - How to check your carseat

As a reminder— research shows that a parent who buckles themselves are most likely to remember to buckle their child.

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Episode # 44: Real (mom) Talk - How to Sleep Train Jan 24, 2022

Hot topic alert! Sleep training (ATTN: discount code included for sleep consults below)

CODE: SLEEP10 Book your call here: https://www.nurturebynaps.com/sleep-consult-overview

Jamie is joined by NAPS mom, Jamie, to offer advice and a plan for sleep and sleep training. On this episode, Jamie gets into all the questions and concerns regarding sleep training.

Discussed in this episode: -Sleep struggles (reflux, soothing, wake ups) -Short daytime naps -Daily schedule -Betime -Sleep training timeline -Day time sleep vs. nighttime sleep -Earlier bedtimes -Time check ins -Sleep expectations -Overnight feeds

If you like this content— please like/comment/ subscribe. Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Thank you to our sponsor— Fidelity 529 https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Episode # 43: Real (mom) Talk-- Managing Life with a Toddler & Newborn Jan 17, 2022

Jamie sits down with second time mom, Rachel (and her 4 week old baby, Maeve), who Jamie was first introduced to in her Mom’s Survival Guide (support group). Rachel approached Jamie with a few questions involving transitioning from 1 kid to 2, and the accompanying challenging toddler behaviors. We figured many of you are in the same boat— so why not turn these questions into an episode?

Discussed in this episode: -Bringing home baby -Sibling transitions -Transitioning from 1 to 2 kids (vs. becoming a parent for the first time) -Toddler transitions -Toddler bedtime -Toddler feelings -Logistics of parenting more than one child -The comparison game -Creating personal boundaries -Making time for yourself, your partner, and your kids -Discipline approaches -Pushing boundaries -Dealing with daycare -Attention seeking behavior

***If you are an experienced mom looking to learn about your developing newborn and meet other moms balancing new babies with older children, be check out our virtual Veteran’s Mom Survival Guide. Sign up here!

https://www.nurturebynaps.com/veterans-moms-survival-guide

If you like this content— please like/comment/ subscribe. Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Thank you to our sponsor— Fidelity 529

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Referenced in this episode:

The Whole Brain Child by Daniel J. Siegel MD

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=whole+brain+child&gclid=Cj0KCQiAw9qOBhC-ARIsAG-rdn7dLmYlHUa1xAC69e_8xJ0BTF3LeAcOI1FTV43H4V6ofBlgyTPfGGgaAhU-EALw_wcB&hvadid=409971158828&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9002028&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=3749862405728978703&hvtargid=kwd-27010564507&hydadcr=22536_11318350&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_6g6mske05i_e

1-2-3 Magic by Thomas W. Phelan, PhD

https://www.amazon.com/1-2-3-Magic-Discipline-Effective-Parenting/dp/149262988X/ref=asc_df_149262988X/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312177564685&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2574673933501163725&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9002028&hvtargid=pla-435999936633&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=60258870697&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312177564685&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=2574673933501163725&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9002028&hvtargid=pla-435999936633

Episode # 42: Real (mom) Talk-- Witching Hour Jan 10, 2022

What is witching hour? Why does it happen and HOW do we get through it?

Witching hour is a time in the day (usually evening) in the first few months of life where your newborn is unusually fussy and difficult to soothe, unrelated to discomfort or hunger. It is typically classified as a time where you just cannot seem to put your baby down. It happens because babies are often overtired and their drive to sleep is lower at this time… which makes them much harder to soothe. It seems like everything that works in the daytime simply will not work to calm your baby.

On this episode of real (mom) talk Jamie gives advice on how to get through the witching hours as well as covering the following topics:

- Getting through witching hours with a newborn and a toddler - Managing two bedtimes at once (newborn and toddler) - Tips to teach your partners & helpers (see download!) - Sleep training - Backing down bedtimes - Self soothing in the day vs. night

If you like this content— please like/comment/ subscribe. Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Thank you to our sponsor— Fidelity 529 https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Episode # 41: Toddler Sleep Jan 03, 2022

Naps client, Susan, joins Jamie to talk about sleep—more specifically, toddler sleep! Susan has been a long time client/ fiend of NAPS and is currently going through the transition of having two kids under the age of two and sleep in their household has taken a major hit. Follow along for the plan Jamie gives Susan to help get sleep in their household back on track.

Also discussed in the episode: - Bringing home baby #2 - Sibling prep - Toddler sleep - Crib climbing - Two under two - Sleeping training - Newborn sleep cycles - Sleep regression - Sleep training - Sleep plan for toddlers - Gentle parenting

If you like this content— please like/comment/ subscribe. Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Thank you to our sponsor— Fidelity 529

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Episode # 40: The Jamie & Caro (Sh*t) Show Dec 27, 2021

In this episode, Jamie is joined by mom of 2, recipe superstar and all around good time, Caroline Chambers (the face behind ‘What To Cook When You Don’t Feel Like Cooking’). Being a mom is hard and comes with a lot of responsibilities and pressure.

Caro and Jamie cover some hot topics on the pod: - “Doing it all” as a mom - Outsourcing to be a better parent - Meal planning and prep for families - Picky eaters - Recipes under 30 minutes - Asking for help and planning to get help - Working moms - The value of childcare - Date night/date day for parents

Happy cooking, baking, and wishing you a happy and healthy holidays!

Caro’s Website: https://www.carolinechambers.com/

Caro’s Weekly Newsletter: https://www.carolinechambers.com/newsletter

Thank you to our sponsor— Fidelity 529 https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Episode #39: Pediatric OTs (BabyMatters) Talk Milestones, Wellness, Treatments, and TOYS! Dec 20, 2021

Similar to Jamie and Emiliy’s path of growing their families and the NAPS businesses in tandem…Danielle Tanguay and Victoria Peake found themselves growing their business, BabyMatters OT, as they combined their experiences as mothers with their medical work background. You know Jamie loves talking to women entrepreneurs. Just add in sensory talk and developmental milestones -- she’s into it!

Danielle and Victoria took their realities as moms, workers, and wives into consideration and asked themselves - how realistic is our advice we give at hospitals and offices? How individualized is it? How can we roll our pediatric OT services seamlessly into the lives of parents like us?

Many times the word ‘therapy’ comes along with the thought that you are fixing or addressing a problem or issue. That is not the case. Therapy is based in wellness and prevention in many cases (or at least it should be more).

What does a pediatric Occupational Therapist do? How is a OT different from a PT? How can we view our kids’ health from the top down, holistically? Should I know what to ask my pediatrician? Should my pediatrician be talking to me more? When should I introduce utensils? Is this toy developmentally appropriate that I bought? Is my worry about my kid an actual problem? So many questions swimming in our parent brains! :)

Join Jamie (as a fellow forward-thinking parent) as she learns about prevention, optimization, and treatment in all things OT - whether that is based in sensory, cognitive, and/or motor function realms. Feeding even gets rolled into OT territory - along with it issues like colic, gassiness, reflux, etc. We can better understand what is a sensory reaction vs. what is a behavioral reaction.

 Beyond milestones like rolling, walking, etc. there is a whole world of development to understand and foster for your baby or toddler. We can have purposeful ways to interact with our babies and toddlers.

 As always, click, share, and subscribe please! Book a video session (coming soon) or appointment with BabyMatters OT on their website: https://www.babymattersot.com/

 Thank you to our sponsor, Fidelity 529. https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Episode # 38: Real (Mom) Talk: Happy Illness Season! Dec 13, 2021

Join Jamie as she talks to Katie. We are all Katie sometimes just wondering IF and WHEN our kids (and ourselves) will stop getting sick during this season. Katie’s little guy has had an especially rough go lately with RSV, Flu, and Hand, Foot & Mouth — all within 2 months.

Toddlers that are now branching out to daycare, museums, nanny shares, etc. were born in a pandemic! Their little immune systems were just snuggling with mom and dad for the last two years.

Baby years and toddler years are delicate times for strategy and routine building. Both parties - babe and parent - rely on those routines in many ways. So, when a kid is sick - how are your routines affected? How do you get back on track?

Follow along as Jamie digs into: -A ‘lipstick’ study -meal time, food, and sleep while your kids are sick -Rational backgrounds to your decision making -Immunity building -Flexibility while your kids are sick

And last but not least: if you’ve ever gone in to get your kid and found them in puke after ignoring their cry a few hours before…you are in good company!

If you liked this content, like / comment / subscribe / save! We are rebuilding our blog and posting on Pinterest as well for great content for you to follow.

As always, thank you to Fidelity 529 for sponsoring this episode. https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Episode # 37: Real (Mom) Talk: All the Postpartum Talk Dec 06, 2021

Let’s kick this second installment of Real (Mom) Talk off with our client who gets INTO the postpartum things…all the things…with Jamie.

From broken postpartum baby hairs / bangs you may sprout to changed relationships with yourself and others - we get into a lot.

Join us to talk about:

-Potential TMI on nipples and breast shapes -How we talk to ourselves in the mirror (hot tip - you don’t have to say you LOVE your body, but there are other words we can use) -Strength as a person pre and post kids -Delayed bonding and PPD -Maternity leave during covid -Accepting fear and feeling alone to normalize talking about all of this! -Vacation away from kids and ideal timing -Pandemic grief and parent grief

What can you control? What can you not control? How is your self talk? Let’s talk about it. Without criticism. Without judgement. Let’s TALK.

Find your people - whether that’s us via Nurture membership - or your best friend who meets you where you’re at.

Thank you to our sponsor, Fidelity 529.

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Episode # 36: Real (Mom) Talk: Starting Solids Nov 29, 2021

In this episode, Jamie starts a new recurring series where a client calls in to talk through a topic - 'Real (Mom) Talk'. Submit your question on our site - https://www.nurturebynaps.com if you’re interested!

Today, Jamie tackles Starting Solids! Often times when there is a LOT of overwhelming information out there about a certain topic…it means there’s no right way, there’s many right ways. You aren’t going to mess this up.

To help get you started…here are some questions / topics that are addressed during the podcast:

- What are the readiness signs for starting solids? - Purees vs. Solids - Common myths - Allergen exposure - how often and when? What time of day? - How quickly can allergic reactions come on and at what point in exposure? - What’s the right plan for you AND your baby? - What IS baby led weaning actually? Is it a range of options? - What’s different about a baby’s gag reflex? Is it a good thing? - What does this mean for breastfed babies in terms of iron? - What is the palmer reflex? What size food is good during this stage? - When babies can pinch, how big and soft should the food be? - Should my nanny / daycare provider take on some meals? - What does this mean for formula or breastmilk schedule? - Do I need to wait 3 days between exposures? - How long until a baby likes something they originally disliked? - What’s the best way to plan this into my day? - When can I feed my baby table foods we are eating already? - Can a baby over eat?

Also, check out a cool company helping you with allergen exposures, Lil Mixins - https://www.lilmixins.com/

We hope you join us for our webinar on Starting Solids on Dec 2, 2021 - https://www.nurturebynaps.com/live-webinars

Happy feeding / eating!

Thank you to our sponsor - Fidelity 529

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Episode #35: Coffee Talk with Caitlin Murray of Big Time Adulting Nov 22, 2021

This week Jamie is joined by fellow mom and incredible instagram follow, Caitlin Murray (@bigtimeadulting). Caitlin shares her story and discusses her sons cancer diagnosis, growing up with anxiety, and what got her to where she is today.

During their conversations, Jamie and Caitlin talk about anxiety overload and the stories we make up in our heads that are heightened with sleep deprivation and lack of control. Let’s face it—loss of control is one of the most challenging things, yet our kids constantly remind us there is no such thing as perfect “control”. Sometimes the things our kids do make us question if we should laugh or cry… or both.

As always, it ok to talk about the hard days, it doesn’t mean that you are not grateful. We are here for you.

This episode is brought to you by Fidelity 529.

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Be sure to follow @nurturebynaps and @bigtimeadulting on IG for many laughs and parenting support.

Episode # 34: The impact of diapers on the environment (and baby bums) with Kudos Nov 15, 2021

Why are we having an episode devoted to diapers? The average kid is in diapers for 2.5 years. That’s 6,000-7,000 diapers. Baby bums are in a diaper for a long time, so we want to know what what we’re working with!

After Amrita Saigal and Jim Keighley worked together at P&G, their paths diverged to sanitary pad innovation in India and pioneering diaper engineering in the US. Retirement is not one of Jim’s strong suits, so he joined Amrita’s mission to disrupt the diaper industry with Kudos.

Have questions about up-the-back blow-outs? Wonder if overnight diapers are scams? Do you know what the four causes of diaper rash are? Do you know if your current diapers have plastic or cotton touching your baby’s bum? Is your diaper biodegradable? What should you truly look for when considering a diaper? Beyond these questions on the brains of many parents, Jamie digs into fascinating concepts concerning diapers.

After a brief history of diapers (yes, at one point they were huge and yes they tried to do male vs. female diapers), join Jamie in learning about:

-Environmental impacts associated with all types of diaper materials (diapers are the third largest contributor to landfill waste!) -Plastic vs. Bamboo -Lingo like gasketing, no-motion zones, and super absorbers

Jim created diapers as we know them today since 1976. With Amrita and the Kudos team he is pioneering a sustainable, eco-friendly, and BUM-FRIENDLY diaper one day at a time.   Keep a watch out for Kudos to launch pull-ups and be sure to use our discount code (noted in episode) to try at https://mykudos.com We are so happy to shine light on a product that we actually love and are using ourselves… baby Eloise’s bum is happy at home with Emily on maternity leave.

As always, thank you to our sponsors. This episode is brought to you by Fidelity 529.

https://www.fidelity.com/529-plans/massachusetts

Keep your diaper questions coming @KudosToBaby and @NurtureByNAPS

Episode # 33: Acupuncture and Acupressure for Women with Katie Pedrick Nov 08, 2021

Join Jamie while she speaks with Katie Pedrick, MAOM, Licensed Acupuncturist & Herbalist, Doctor of Acupuncture (RI).

Katie runs her acupuncture and wellness practice, Vibe Wellness in Charlestown https://vibe-wellness.com and created an acupressure app with her business partner that has absolutely taken off - Point Acupressure https://apps.apple.com/us/app/point-acupressure/id1528501360 Hot tip - follow them on TikTok too @PointAcupressure.

Get the low down on…well, a lot! Western-informed Eastern Medicine…women’s health and holistic looks at body systems…fertility use cases…birth control usage…periods…hormonal balancing…the stress epidemic…pregnancy, labor, and postpartum symptom and pain management…food as medicine...filling your physical and emotional depletions...impactful sleep...c-section scars and pain...Ok, we'll stop listing and let you listen.

Getting into Point Acupressure's brilliance - have you tried to meditate? This is almost like a guided meditation, but in acupressure form (no needles necessary. After your personalized question series, the app customizes acupressure guides based on your daily needs and long-term wellness goals. Bonus use case - your labor support person could learn how to help you reduce pain during the big day!

We can optimize our health before there are problems, symptoms, and sickness. Learn more about it with us!

Listen, save, and follow us on social media @NurtureByNAPS, @Vibe.wellness, @vibeacupuncture, @pointacupressure

Finally, suggested reading: The Body Keeps Score

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18693771-the-body-keeps-the-score

Feel well!

Episode # 32: Perinatal Mental Health Nov 01, 2021

Jamie is joined by Sarah Harmon, licensed mental health counselor, mindfulness instructor, mother, and founder of Postpartum Wellness Group (and The School of Mom) to talk…Perinatal Wellness.

What is the perinatal stage? It’s the time from conception to one year after birth (although Sarah and Jamie have longer timing in their heads at times). Hormones, sleep disturbances, etc. - it all does not all of a sudden regulate and become “normal” again past the one year mark. Also, let’s not forget our pre-conception friends on a fertility journey that have a story here too.

One day this baby comes. This day creates the biggest changes in your life. These changes are physical, biological, social, emotional, practical, spiritual, etc. It should not be a surprise when people struggle through these common mental issues - we just don't bring this to light in our society often (yet).

1 in 5 moms experiences significant symptoms of anxiety and/or depression during the perinatal stage. Partners do too…1 in 10 dads experience mental health issues during this time. Sarah and Jamie get into what “significant symptoms” mean.

Listen in and learn about PMAD (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders) and so much more.

Please share this with a friend. We are in this with you and know support is crucial! We knew Sarah was knowledgeable and good at what she does…but, wow. This is an exceptional episode, if we do say so ourselves.

And if you are local to MA and looking for a therapist, Sarah's private practice, Postpartum Wellness Group, is accepting new clients. Please email: hello@postpartumwellnessgroup.com.

As always, don't forget to follow along with us on IG @nurturebynaps

Episode # 31 : What is the Ideal Time to Sleep Train? Oct 25, 2021

Emily had her baby, Eloise Baylin...what is Jamie to do? Go in solo on her favorite topic these days...real talk about sleep training. Remember our 'Do Nothing" episode for the 0-3 months sleep conversation? Check back to that episode if you're in that stage.

Jamie tackles the ideal timing of sleep training (around 5-8 months), the definition of a full night's sleep, three common methods available, new skill training philosophy (i.e. math homework analogy, yay!), and much more. Try a little adult self-soothing by listening to this episode to give yourself an informed basis for sleep training decision making.

Don't forget to share this MOSTLY with your partner - same page is key! But also with friends who would find this episode beneficial.

Follow us on IG @Nurturebynaps and reach out via our website nurturebynaps.com. Happy sleeping!

Episode # 30: How to Mother Yourself with Sarah Harmon Oct 18, 2021

Welcome guest, Sarah Harmon, to the podcast! Sarah is a fellow girl mom, licensed Mental Health Therapist, founder of The School of Mom, and invaluable resource when it comes to mental health and wellbeing.

Jamie and Sarah discuss “self- care” and the complexities of the term. What does self-care mean as a mom? When is there time? How do I start? This term often feels like a dagger, especially as a mom. You are not alone. Jamie and Sarah talk about their experiences and demonstrate that self-care is not one-size fits all. Follow us on IG @Nurturebynaps. Referenced in this episode: School of Mom (@the.schoolofmom)

https://www.theschoolofmom.com/mom-practice-club-self-care-membership

Episode # 29 : Why Are You Saying No? Oct 11, 2021

Maybe yes, maybe no….

After a recent play date where all five, soon to be six, of the O’day and Silver girls got together and found all the paint and glitter (every homeowners worst enemy) Jamie and Emily thought about why we frequently default to saying “no” to the kids.

Jamie and Emily take a deep dive into why we are conditioned to respond with a “no” and how to work through making decisions for our kids… even if it involves a messy cleanup or altering your plans.

Sometimes, saying “no” is about teaching a lesson or setting a boundary but saying yes has significant meaning too.

Follow us on IG @Nurturebynaps.

Episode # 28: WYNTK About Pacifiers Oct 04, 2021

Hot topic alert: THE PACIFIER. Do we introduce a paci? When is the right time to give a paci vs take away the paci? What are the implications? What does the AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) guidance mean?

This week, Emily and Jamie discuss everything paci’s— from personal experiences, dental insight, the overnight pacifier dance, to weaning from the pacifier and more.

We want to be clear that there is no judgment around your family’s pacifier preferences and use. As always we are here for you and happy ta talk all things pacifiers!

Our personal favorite pacifiers: Philips Avent Soothie and WubbaNub.

Follow us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Episode # 27: Emily’s Postpartum Plan Sep 27, 2021

Emily is currently 36 weeks pregnant and anxiously awaiting her due date. Emily cannot wait to deliver and has been putting an early delivery out in the universe for a while now (lol ask Jamie).

As of late, Emily has been reminiscing of her time postpartum with her two oldest daughters and thinking about her goals this time around. Major goal: being able to enjoy the newborn phase, to embrace the struggle, and not take things so seriously. With Jamie’s blessing, Emily discusses her five goals (and plan for success) this time around.

We say it all the time, but the newborn phase goes by so quickly, we want you to feel supported enough to soak it in and enjoy this precious (and difficult time) because after all, it is temporary. Stay tuned— we will be checking back in to see how Emily did with her plan.

Follow us on IG @NurtureByNAPS.

Episode # 26 : Why I Don’t Parent All My Kids The Same Sep 20, 2021

Could you imagine a world where parenting is one size fits all? This would mean ONE parenting book and a lot less trial and error. Unfortunately, nothing (that) good is one size fits all.

This week, Jamie joins the podcast for a solo episode and discusses how she parents each of her kids based on each of their unique personalities (and how her tactics are ever evolving).

Get a glimpse into Jamies household, and we hope that you are able to relate to one of the O’day girls in some way. Remember, look for ways to make things easier for your child, which in turn, will make parenting easier/more successful for you!

Follow us on IG @ NurtureByNAPS.

Episode #25: 1 Year Old Transitions Sep 13, 2021

Often parenting seems like a never ending series of transitions and changes— but why does the 1 year old transition feel so overwhelming?

Your kid’s first birthday comes with major celebration…and major angst. Right when you feel like you’ve got schedule “just right”, everything changes (i.e. feeding, sleeping, behaviors). Jamie and Emily give you the run down (and the DO’s and DON’T’s) on the two hottest topics, bottles and diary, pertaining to this milestone and also share the best advice they received as mom’s from their pediatrician.

In fact, the ladies of NAPS have gotten so many questions about the 1 year old transition that they have created a course available on Nurture to help guide you. Trust yourself. Trust your kid. Things get better.

Follow us on IG @ NurtureByNAPS.

Episode # 24: Stop Overthinking Sep 06, 2021

We love family vacations-- especially, the stories/lessons that family vacations return. On this episode, Emily shares about her recent family vacation to Maine and shares a story that sent her spiraling to think of the worst case scenario— something we frequently do as parents. Everyone has a story (or a few) where something happens and before we know it, we are thinking WORST case scenario. We worry, we research, we panic, and worry more.

Are we worrying too much? Are these overwhelming thoughts a common occurrence? How do we prevent this cycle?

Emily and Jamie talk about the practice of mindfulness, when and how to seek help, and helpful tips and tricks on how to slow down, focus on the facts, and how to prevent irrational overthinking.

By the way, we get it— it happens to all of us.

Follow us on IG @ NurtureByNAPS.

Episode #23: Ditch the boring birth class Aug 30, 2021

Let’s talk about prenatal education— the way it should be!

As our upcoming September Pre Baby Bootcamp quickly approaches, Jamie and Emily sit down to discuss what led them curate this curriculum, what differentiates it from your typical birthing class and what is useful (and more specifically, what is NOT useful) as you prepare for you newest arrival and parenthood.

Our goal at NAPS is to empower you as parents to make decisions that feel good and work for your family— your education is no different.

Follow us on IG @NurturebyNAPS.

Episode # 22: Delta Variant Questions Aug 23, 2021

Episode # 22: Delta Variant Questions

Every Monday night on Instagram, Jamie and Emily hold space for “Moment for Mom”. This hour welcomes any and all questions involving family/ baby/ parenthood/ life. After this Monday, it was clear that there are many questions regarding the Delta variant and we are facing many of the same concerns as last summer/fall.

In regards to recent conversations with Emily Oster, Jamie and Emily discuss common questions (How can I protect my pregnancy? Are you letting family around your newborn? Should my kids attend school?) regarding the Delta variant and how to make informed decisions, when navigating unfamiliar and scary territory.

Jamie and Emily discuss the decision framework introduced by Emily Oster and how to implement that framework into these difficult decisions that we are forced to confront and combat as parents. As always, we are here to support you and your decisions.

Follow us on IG @NurtureByNAPS and we encourage you to check out “Moment for Mom” on Monday nights.

Episode #21: Ride or Die: Friends Before Business Aug 16, 2021

There are many parallels between running a business and parenting. It is not always want it seems, half (…or 99%) of the time you have no idea what you are doing or what is coming — but you have to make it work.

On this week episode of Unswaddled, the ladies of NAPS address one of their most frequently asked questions. What is the key to a successful business partnership and how do you remain friends? For Jamie and Emily it is simple: friendship and family first.

Jamie and Emily offer a glimpse of what brought them to this part of their story and talk of the struggles that they have encountered along the way. As always, we are here for you whenever you are in need of support.

Follow us on IG @NurtureByNAPS.

Episode #20: You Should LOVE Your Pediatrician Aug 09, 2021

If you know Jamie and Emily, you know that they LOVE their pediatrician…so much so that she is the newest full-time addition to the NAPS & Nurture by NAPS team. Ellen is the standard of relationships families should have with their pediatrician— yet, we understand that this is not the case for everyone.

In your child’s first year of life, they have 9 well-child visits (this means 9 doctor’s appointments not including weight checks, illness, feeding support, etc..). You should look forward to those visits because of the relationship you have with your pediatrician. This relationship is so important because it is reflective of the relationship that your child will later have with that individual.

On this episode, Jamie and Emily provide suggestions on how to look for a pediatrician, what questions to ask, how to know if your pediatrician is a good fit, and when to move on to another provider. Remember— picking your pediatrician is not an arranged marriage. We encourage you to love your pediatrician (and that may involved some shopping around)!

Follow us on IG @ NurtureByNAPS.

Episode # 19: Return to Office Post Pandemic Aug 02, 2021

Over the past year, the world has experienced drastic change. The way we live and the way we work (and from where) has completely shifted. On this episode, Jamie and Emily talk about one of their newest Nurture offerings that focuses on the return to work, post pandemic. Side note: this is something that women, and parents, have experienced long before the pandemic, and with no plan in place… it’s called maternity leave.

Jamie and Emily talk about expectations, boundaries, tips and tricks, and easing into this transition back to work. The goal is to make meaningful change to help people transition back into the office and to also offer a permanent plan for parents to return to the office after family leave. As always, we are here to support you— you’ve got this!

Follow us on IG @NurturebyNAPS.

Episode #18: Be a Good Parent 30% of the Time Jul 26, 2021

This week on our Nurture platform, Dr. Tanya Cotler, licensed clinical psychologist, gifted us with a huge takeaway—we are supposed to mess up 70% of the time as parents. She spoke of the relationship between “Rupture and Repair” and the bogus expectation of perfection (we hope you are sensing a common theme here…parenting is NOT perfection).

What happens when we lose our cool? What happens when our anxiety shows up as impatience? How do we move on and raise resilient children who are able to recognize their feelings, acknowledge their emotions, accomplish difficult things, and adapt.

Jamie and Emily talk about separating your actions from who you are as a parent (and avoiding the vicious spiral of parental guilt). We all have worries. We all screw up. Instead of feeling guilty, work to repair it, talk about what happened, and bring it full circle. This is a lesson for you and beneficial for your children.

Follow us on IG @NurtureByNAPS.

Episode #17: The Story of Grace Jul 19, 2021

Trigger warning: This episode involves loss/ child loss/infant loss. If you or a loved one have recently experienced loss, this episode may be one that you want to skip, or listen to with appropriate warning and caution. We are always here for you.  

Emily has previously mentioned that her sister, Grace, died from SIDS but has rarely talked about the details of her sister’s death and the long lasting impact that the loss had on herself and her family. In this episode, there is no lesson. Horrible things don’t happen for any particular reason— there is no blessing, no meaning. It's awful. Emily and Jamie talk about acknowledging and supporting grief while emphasizing that grief never disappears.  

Thank you for this space and community that allows us to be so open, in hopes of helping others who have experienced similar traumas.  

Follow us on IG @ NurturebyNAPS.

Episode # 16 Transitioning to a Family of 4 or More Jul 12, 2021

A recent hot topic in the NAPS office, and amongst clients, has been sibling prep (hi baby Silver 3.0). On this week’s episode, Emily takes the wheel to discuss the complexities of transitioning to life at home with a newborn, in addition to the rest of your family. Adjusting to being a family of 4 or more is difficult because we have nothing to truly compare it to (and this is before you factor in your baby's temperament/personality). A new family member brings along new experiences and requires resetting your expectations.

Jamie and Emily share their experiences, tips, tricks, and validate the fact that transitioning as a growing family is hard for everyone that is involved. As a reminder, this transition is only temporary and also really difficult.

Follow us on IG @NurtureyNAPS.

Episode # 15: Family Fishing Trip From Hell Jul 05, 2021

On the last few episodes, Jamie and Emily talked about resetting expectations and keeping cool throughout the summer… but what happens when $h*t hits the fan and you are in the middle of the ocean. Welcome to Jamie’s family vacation featuring the “critter cruise”.

Jamie and Emily sit down to recall the events that unfolded in the middle of the Atlantic, when Jamie’s planned family excursion turned into deep sea fishing, on rocky seas. Jamie talks about what really went down during those 2 hours at sea, that seemed like forever, and the lessons learned along the way.

Follow us on IG @NurturebyNAPS

Episode #14: Stay “Cool” This Summer Jun 28, 2021

Summer means a lot of excitement. School is out, and warmer weather amounts to endless activities and opportunities for fun. Sometimes saying “no” is the easy option because a “yes” requires flexibility (cue the later bedtimes and necessary adjustments for the next day). Parenting takes flexibility and it is important to reset our expectations for given circumstances like the summer bbq, fireworks, travel, etc…

Jamie and Emily talk about the lessons they have learned from losing their $h*t and recognizing (and managing) the triggers that make them feel upset. Both ladies talk strategies for resisting the urge to yell and scream and resetting the expectations to create memories and enjoy this wonderful time of year.

Follow us on IG @NurturebyNAPS.

Episode #13: A Tribute to Our Husbands Jun 20, 2021

Happy Father’s Day! It only seems right to release a podcast on Father’s Day about the unsung heroes—dads!

On this episode, Jamie and Emily give us a close look into their households and all that their partners do. Although both husbands (hi JC and AJ) have two letter names, their roles are very different in each household. The ladies of NAPS talk about meeting their partner, growing with them, starting a family, and how roles have changed during the pandemic. As much as we love to hype all the mommas up, today is for you, dad. Thank your spouse and thank them for all that they do. On behalf of NAPS, Happy Father’s Day!!

You can find us on IG @NurturebyNAPS.

Episode #12: Stop Waiting to Feel Good Jun 14, 2021

After a recent instagram post that got a lot of love, it was apparent that this topic resonated with many. As women, need to stop waiting to feel good and start taking care of ourselves. It could mean a mani/pedi, a blowout, a full night of sleep, a workout, new clothes, or taking a nap and having time to yourself. Taking care of yourself is not a reward, it is essential for you, but also the wellbeing of your family. Taking care of yourself is going to mean something different for everyone but, it does not need to be complicated or a huge investment.

Jamie and Emily talk about the lessons they have learned throughout pregnancy and continue to learn in motherhood. Remember, how much you sacrifice yourself as a mother does not determine your worth. You deserve to feel like you and you deserve to feel GOOD.

You can find us on IG @NurturebyNAPS

Episode #11: Tell Your Birth Story Jun 07, 2021

As two former labor and delivery nurses, Jamie and Emily have seen and been a part of their fair share of births. Each birth story and birthing experience is so unique and a huge part of your journey to becoming a mother and a family. So why is no one asking you about it?

Talking about your birth story is extremely important but, it often feels like it is something to be brushed under the rug and not spoken of once baby arrives (who needs something else to be judged about, right?). There is also a large variance in experiences at birth. It can be assumed that the majority of us fall somewhere in between having a traumatic/life threatening birth experiences to having a lovely/enjoyable experience. The bottom line is that birth is different for everyone, but a huge part of what makes you YOU.

We want to hear your story. We want you to share your story and we want to know how you are doing.

Episode #10: What are you making breastfeeding mean? May 31, 2021

Breastfeeding… what a loaded topic. During this episode, Jamie and Emily talk about the heavily stigmatized topic of feeding. What it means from a medical perspective, a family perspective and more importantly what YOU are making it mean to you.

As IBCLC’s and business owners working in the space of newborn care and women’s health, Jamie and Emily frequently encounter these strong emotions and feelings towards the choice of feeding, more specifically breastfeeding, when things are not going as expected. Breastfeeding is hard (I.e. trouble with supply, weight gain, nipple pain, diet changes and all the unknowns).

There is one question that you must ask yourself: What are you making breastfeeding mean? The answer 10/10 times is that not being able to breastfeed means that you have convinced yourself that you are failing as a mom. This is FALSE.

Jamie and Emily talk about the importance of making a plan that is sustainable, short term, and realistic.

Lastly, in case you were wondering ALL of Jamie and Emily kids have had formula… and we promise you baby #6 will too. They didn’t do it all, they didn’t figure it all out and they do this for a living!!! It doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

The bottom line is that the choice that is right for you, is the right choice for you and your family.

Referenced in this podcast: Crib Sheet by Emily Oster.

You can find us on IG @nurturebynaps.

Episode #9: Stop Comparing May 24, 2021

Comparing is a dangerous and vicious cycle, yet we all do it. It is as if social media exists to encourage us to compare our lives to the polished squares that are posted on instagram. We compare ourselves as women, as moms, and as partners. We compare our babies/kids with everything from feeding, to milestones, to sleep, and so on. It is not just moms who compare, it is all parents.The list goes on and the limit does not exist (iykyk).

In this episode, Jamie and Emily take a deep dive into their personal lives and experiences in their line of work regarding comparison. The ladies of NAPS discuss the common areas of comparison (i.e, development milestones, sleep, etc..) and how to address these concerns, when and how to stop cycle of comparison and the self doubt, worry, and guilt that accompany it. Jamie and Emily help you identify how to catch yourself in this nasty game and how to stop it in its tracks.

The bottom line is that parenting is tough, and that it is never what is seems. Know that we think you are great, even in your most difficult moments, and we are always proud of you.

Episode 8: Nothing in Life is 50/50 May 17, 2021

After two heavy episodes, the women behind NAPS switch gears to discuss a much lighter topic. Jamie and Emily reconvene to talk about the parallels between running a business partnership and their home lives.

When Jamie and Emily started this business in 2011, they were loving the “side hustle” of NAPS, enjoying their new dogs, living “kid-free”, and splitting all the work 50/50. Just like everything else, things change.

In 2015, Jamie and Emily decided to pursue their true passion and make the business full time. They each had 2 girls, all under the age of 3… all in diapers. While juggling pregnancies, delivery/recovery, family emergencies and life in general, there was now a full time business that demanded time, effort and a significant amount of energy. They quickly learned that you cannot be everything, to everyone, all at once.

On this episode, Jamie and Emily discuss ditching the unrealistic expectation of perfection, listening and attending to things that are demanding your attention. This means changing the conversation to manage realistic expectations and, therefore, giving necessary support.

As a reminder, these aspects of life change day to day, week to week, and even moment to moment. Running on empty is not sustainable and we are here to support you and offer help in any way we can.

You can find us @nurturebynaps on IG

Episode #7: Emily's Miscarriage May 10, 2021

As a continuation of the last podcast episode, where Jamie opens up about her miscarriage, Emily takes the floor and shares her miscarriage experience. Like Jamie, Emily’s experience is filled with many emotions and complicated feelings but is very different.

Who is the person you call in a moment of panic? For Jamie, it’s Emily. For Emily, it’s Jamie.

In the middle of her shift as a labor and delivery nurse, Emily calls Jamie... from the hospital bathroom, nonetheless. Through tears, Emily tells Jamie that she is pregnant. If you know Emily, from the moment she is pregnant, she is SICK. At this point Emily's mind is spiralling.

Emily talks about everything from anxiety, anxiety meds, hyperemesis, and the misconceptions surrounding the stigma of medication during pregnancy. Emily discusses hitting rock bottom without anxiety medication and the battle of trying to go off/on the meds based on the shame she felt for being on such medication. Emily highlights the importance of prioritizing taking care of yourself prior to taking care of others.

Trigger warning: In part 2 of this 2 part series, Emily and Jamie are sharing their personal stories of experiencing loss with miscarriage. Jamie and Emily offer their unique perspectives on the complicated feelings and roller coaster of emotions that accompany miscarriage and loss.

As always, we are here to open the doors to the difficult conversations that so many of us experience, yet so few of us talk about. You are not alone and we are here for you.

You can find us @nurturebynaps on IG

Episode #6: Jamie's Miscarriage Apr 26, 2021

When NAPS was established many years ago, one of the main goals was to create a special space where women could feel completely comfortable and well supported. A place where women could share their stories, talk about “taboo” topics without judgement, bond, and feel heard. Side note… there are not many off limit topics at NAPS.

When Jamie’s oldest was 6 months old, she got the ultimate surprise. Pregnant with twins. Yes, that math is correct-- 3 children under 14 months old. Cue the feelings of anger, stress, disbelief and being VERY overwhelmed. Fast forward to Jamie’s 12 week ultrasound, where she found out she has miscarried both babies. Cue the feelings of shame, guilt, and more anger.

Trigger warning: In this 2 part series, Emily and Jamie are sharing their personal stories of experiencing loss with miscarriage. Jamie and Emily offer their unique perspectives on the complicated feelings and roller coaster of emotions that accompany miscarriage and loss.

As always, we are here to open the doors to the difficult conversations that so many of us experience, yet so few of us talk about.

You can find us @nurturebynaps on IG

Episode 5: What Is It Costing You? Apr 19, 2021

On this episode, Jamie and Emily sit down for an episode full of laughs, memories, and lessons learned regarding the idea “What is it costing you?”. Major credit for Jancee Dunn, for being the genius behind this concept in her book How Not to Hate Your Husband After Kids. This idea can be applied to pretty much everything...especially parenting.

What is it costing you when you leave the house and come home to your happy children in front of the tv? What is it costing you when dad puts the onesie on backwards? What about coming home to your newborn who has not napped all day? What could make your life easier if you actually talked about it with your partner instead of pointing the finger and initiating the argument?

The ladies of NAPS talk about when it is time to bite your tongue and when it is time to appropriately engage in a discussion and offer up a solution, in a productive manner. Recounted by personal experiences, Jamie and Emily show you how this concept of “What is it costing you?” impacts your everyday life, sanity, happiness, and freedom -- as a family, and as a mama.

You can find us @nurturebynaps on IG

Episode 4: Don't JUST Prepare for Labor and Birth Apr 12, 2021

Life really does come at you fast—especially when you are becoming a parent. In this episode, Jamie and Emily discuss what to prepare for beyond diaper changes and getting through the demands of labor.

There is a trend in society to put major emphasis on prepping for labor, and quite frankly, not much beyond that. Most parents practice their diapering/ swaddling techniques before birth and choose a planned method for feeding (remember, fed is best). All of a sudden, you have a gorgeous little one in your arms and you are awaiting discharge from the hospital. How can we be going home? Are we suitable parents? How are we going to know what to do? The truth is that parenting truly begins after labor and delivery. That doesn’t mean neglecting to prepare for labor and delivery, or breastfeeding-- but give equal, if not more time, to prepare for parenting and the changes in family dynamic, sleep, and managing the feelings of being overwhelmed and/or anxious.

Not to fret, this episode is filled with client feedback, personal experience, tools to prepare for baby and real-life advice. At NAPS, we want to give you the proper tools to prepare for your baby without the expectation that things are going to be easy. We are here to fully support you in the total life adjustment that parenting is and to watch you succeed.

You can find us @nurturebynaps on IG

Episode #3: Visitors vs. Helpers Mar 24, 2021

As a continuation of episode 2, Jamie takes an in-depth look into her first maternity leave. Looking back, Jamie’s oldest was what some would call a “dream baby”. Regardless of that fact, Jamie rode shotgun on the struggle bus. Jamie talks about the pressure she felt to entertain her visitors, how she measured her worth as a mother, and what she learned along the way to master her maternity leave with her third daughter. With this being said, the hope is that you don’t have to have 2 or 3 kids to master your leave. The ladies of NAPS highlight the differences between a visitor and someone who is a helper, establishing boundaries, accepting/asking for help, setting limits and taking necessary time for yourself. Yes, all of these things sound easy on paper, but practice truly does make perfect (and a hype girl, like Jamie or Emily, definitely help). Practice, make a list, keep us posted, and take advantage of the help that is going to make you feel better emotionally, mentally and physically. You can find us @nurturebynaps on IG

Episode #2: Managing Your Expectations for Maternity Leave Mar 24, 2021

Maternity leave: expectation vs. reality. On this episode, Jamie and Emily dig deep into maternity leave and the false perceptions we have surrounding maternity leave. What we see on social media is wrong, and total BS. Moms, 5 days postpartum, and out and about in their pre-preggo jeans, blown out hair, and cute baby carrier. This is NOT reality. The blowouts (not the kind from DryBar), the tears, unfolding/ fumbling the stroller—that IS reality. Listen for a laugh, dose of reality and, most importantly, a shift in resetting those expectations (as nurses, moms, and friends who have been there before). Keeping a tiny human alive, and trying to fulfill your most basic human needs, is not for the faint of heart. The days seem to fly by while dragging on. All of a sudden, it is 5pm and your partner gets home from work, makes friendly conversation, and all of a sudden it’s a personal attack (sees the laundry piles, dirty dishes. etc..). How do we help ourselves with communication? How can we get recognition for the invisible work we are doing through the day (aka the countless feedings, diaper changes, pumping sessions, tepid coffee we have yet to enjoy from 6am)? Throughout the episode, Jamie and Emily give strategies on how to tackle maternity leave and reset the expectation from their personal experiences, struggles, and expertise. Remember mama, you are killing it and deserve a gold star! You can find us @nurturebynaps on IG

Episode #1: Newborn Sleep: Do Nothing! Mar 24, 2021

The co-founders behind NAPS & Nurture by NAPS, Emily Silver (Family Nurse Practitioner, IBCLC, and mom of 2), and Jamie O’Day (Registered Nurse, IBCLC, and mom of 3) get right into the good stuff and discuss one of their hottest topics--SLEEP. Whether it is pre-baby or post-baby, everyone is desperate to know all things about baby sleep… or if their baby will ever sleep. Not to worry, they will! In this episode, Jamie and Emily talk about realistic, simple, quick, and easy ways to get longer stretches of sleep with your newborn to ultimately get you more sleep/ more efficient sleep as parents. Hint: It requires doing less work—actually NOTHING. Jamie and Emily bring in real life experience with their girls like avoiding proactive intervention, frequent feedings, diaper changes, swaddle adjustments, etc…to explain that less intervention overnight will help your newborn get longer stretches of sleep. This includes when to start, how to start, and when you have the ‘greenlight’ to let your baby be your alarm clock. These simple adjustments can be implemented in the initial weeks home from the hospital and make you feel better from a physical and mental perspective! Afterall, who doesn’t love their sleep? You can find us @nurturebynaps on IG

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected