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In this episode of the Aligned Birth Podcast, hosts Dr. Shannon and Doula Rachael discuss the essential role of doulas in the birthing process. They explore how to choose the right doula, the different types of doulas available, and the key questions to ask when selecting one. The conversation emphasizes the importance of trust, emotional support, and effective communication between the birthing person and their doula. Listeners are encouraged to consider their own birth philosophy and intuition when making decisions about their birth support team.

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Email: [email protected]

Find us online:
Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness
North Atlanta Birth Services

Editing: Godfrey Sound
Music: "Freedom” by Roa

Disclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.  

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In this episode, we reflect on our unplanned hiatus, the concept of wintering, and how embracing seasons of rest can impact personal growth and creativity. We also share personal stories about family, pets, and the importance of making core memories.

00:00 The Unplanned Hiatus

03:49 Embracing the Wintering Season

06:31 The Joys and Challenges of New Pets

12:03 Navigating Parenting and Technology

16:30 The Dark Side of Data Tracking

17:12 Navigating the Dark Side of Health Tracking

19:11 The Importance of Rest and Self-Awareness

20:28 Creating Core Memories with Family

23:30 The Impact of Family Traditions and Inside Jokes

27:32 The Value of Presence Over Perfection

29:10 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Reflections

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Want to show your support? Want to help us continue doing this important and impactful work: Support the Show (we greatly appreciate it!)

Don't miss new episodes: Join the Aligned Birth Community

Instagram: Aligned Birth

Email: [email protected]

Find us online:
Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness
North Atlanta Birth Services

Editing: Godfrey Sound
Music: "Freedom” by Roa

Disclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.  

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In this episode of the Aligned Birth Podcast, hosts Dr. Shannon and Doula Rachael reflect on their podcast journey over the past year, discussing their approach to sustainable podcasting, the importance of interviews, and the insights gained from various birth topics. They also share personal experiences of balancing motherhood and work, the significance of mindfulness and self-care routines, and the impact of technology on wellness. The conversation highlights the growth and evolution of their podcast while looking forward to future episodes.

Takeaways

Reflecting on the past year helps recognize achievements.

Sustainable podcasting focuses on quality over quantity.

Interviews bring diverse perspectives to the podcast.

Engaging conversations can inspire new ideas.

Balancing family and work is a continuous journey.

Finding contentment amidst busyness is essential.

Mindfulness practices can enhance well-being.

Technology can aid in tracking health and wellness.

It's important to embrace the challenges of motherhood.

The podcast will continue to evolve and grow.

Support the show

Want to show your support? Want to help us continue doing this important and impactful work: Support the Show (we greatly appreciate it!)

Don't miss new episodes: Join the Aligned Birth Community

Instagram: Aligned Birth

Email: [email protected]

Find us online:
Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness
North Atlanta Birth Services

Editing: Godfrey Sound
Music: "Freedom” by Roa

Disclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.  

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In this episode, Lainey Stancil, founder of the Peach State Birth Coalition, shares her journey of advocating for midwifery and maternal health in Georgia. She discusses the importance of individualized care, the need for midwifery licensure, and the role of community support and education in empowering women during childbirth. Lainey emphasizes the significance of birth freedom and the ongoing maternal health crisis in Georgia, while also highlighting upcoming events aimed at raising awareness and funds for these causes. 

takeaways

• Lainey founded Peach State Birth Coalition to address gaps in maternal healthcare.
• Individualized care is crucial for empowering women during childbirth.
• Advocacy for midwifery licensure is essential for improving access to care.
• Community support and education can bridge the gap in maternal health.
• Birth freedom means having the choice of who and where to birth.
• Georgia faces a maternal health crisis with high mortality rates.
• Upcoming events aim to raise awareness and funds for maternal health.  January 23, 2026
• Sharing birth stories can help build a supportive community.
• Education about birth options is vital for informed decision-making.
• Moms need to feel seen and heard during their birthing experiences.

Connect with Lainey: instagram - website 

Support the show

Want to show your support? Want to help us continue doing this important and impactful work: Support the Show (we greatly appreciate it!)

Don't miss new episodes: Join the Aligned Birth Community

Instagram: Aligned Birth

Email: [email protected]

Find us online:
Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness
North Atlanta Birth Services

Editing: Godfrey Sound
Music: "Freedom” by Roa

Disclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.  

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In this episode of the Aligned Birth Podcast, Dr. Shannon and Kristin Mize delve into the complexities of maternal mental health, parenting styles, and toddler behavior. They explore how childhood experiences shape parenting approaches, the importance of emotional regulation, and the role of co-regulation in managing children's behavior. Kristin shares insights from her practice, emphasizing that understanding attachment styles and the impact of stress can help parents navigate the challenges of motherhood more effectively.  Kristin also shares her insights on parenting, focusing on emotional regulation and co-regulation techniques. She emphasizes the importance of understanding toddler behavior, the need for practice in emotional regulation, and the differences in how boys and girls may express their emotions. Mize also discusses when to seek professional help for children and the significance of connection and compassion in parenting. The conversation highlights practical strategies for parents to create a calm environment and foster emotional intelligence in their children

Takeaways

Maternal mental health is crucial for effective parenting.
Parenting styles can be influenced by one's own childhood experiences.
Attachment styles play a significant role in child development.
Chronic stress can have a lasting impact on mental health.
Co-regulation is essential for managing children's emotions.
Parents often overcompensate for their own childhood experiences.
Emotional regulation is key to responding appropriately to children.
Understanding that children are having a hard time can shift parental responses.
Energy and emotional states are contagious between parents and children.
It's normal for parents to feel overwhelmed and imperfect.  Calm in the home leads to fewer meltdowns.
Co-regulation techniques can transform family dynamics.
Breathing exercises help both parents and children regulate emotions.
Understanding toddler behavior requires a nervous system perspective.
It's normal for toddlers to express big emotions.

Connect with Kristin - website - Instagram

Support the show

Want to show your support? Want to help us continue doing this important and impactful work: Support the Show (we greatly appreciate it!)

Don't miss new episodes: Join the Aligned Birth Community

Instagram: Aligned Birth

Email: [email protected]

Find us online:
Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness
North Atlanta Birth Services

Editing: Godfrey Sound
Music: "Freedom” by Roa

Disclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.  

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In this episode, Dr. Shannon and guest Kristin Mize, a licensed clinical social worker, delve into the complexities of maternal mental health. They discuss the impact of motherhood on emotional regulation, the mind-body connection, and the importance of self-care. Kristin shares her personal journey and professional insights, emphasizing the need for awareness of stress responses and practical strategies for emotional regulation. The conversation highlights the challenges mothers face and offers hope and guidance for navigating these experiences. Kristin also discusses the importance of emotional regulation in parenting, the impact of childhood wounds on current behaviors, and the role of the nervous system in managing stress. She emphasizes the need for practice in recognizing triggers and developing healthier responses, as well as the significance of connection in parent-child relationships. The discussion also touches on the challenges of modern parenting and the necessity of self-care for effective parenting.

Takeaways

Motherhood significantly impacts emotional regulation.
Authenticity in mental health work is crucial.
Many women struggle with anxiety rather than depression postpartum.
Understanding the mind-body connection is essential for mental health.
Recognizing stress responses can help in managing emotions.
Self-care is often neglected by mothers but is vital.
Emotional regulation involves responding, not just reacting.
Identifying triggers is key to managing stress.
Practicing mindfulness can improve emotional responses.
It's okay to seek help and not have all the answers. It's essential to notice and pause before responding.
Emotional regulation takes practice and awareness.
Many parents were not taught emotional management skills.
Childhood experiences shape our current emotional responses.
Connection with children is crucial for effective parenting.
Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for parenting.
Understanding triggers can help in managing reactions.
The nervous system plays a significant role in emotional responses.

Connect with Kristin - website - Instagram

Support the show

Want to show your support? Want to help us continue doing this important and impactful work: Support the Show (we greatly appreciate it!)

Don't miss new episodes: Join the Aligned Birth Community

Instagram: Aligned Birth

Email: [email protected]

Find us online:
Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness
North Atlanta Birth Services

Editing: Godfrey Sound
Music: "Freedom” by Roa

Disclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.  

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Here are the takeaways from our Postpartum Thriving Kit:

• Postpartum is often misunderstood and requires more societal attention.
• Preparation for postpartum should start during pregnancy.
• Resting and caring for oneself is crucial in the early postpartum period.
• Physical recovery varies between vaginal and cesarean births.
• Lactation support is essential for breastfeeding success.
• Emotional well-being is as important as physical recovery.
• Professional support can help navigate postpartum challenges.
• Creating a comfortable environment aids in recovery.
• Having essential items readily available can ease the transition.
• Rest is a form of productivity during the postpartum period. Newborns require a lot of contact and sleep.
• Understanding the fourth trimester can ease postpartum challenges.
• Newborns typically do not sleep through the night for weeks.
• It's important to embrace the 24-hour clock mentality for newborns.
• Partner communication is crucial for shared responsibilities.
• Mental health strategies are essential for postpartum recovery.
• Anxiety can be common in the early postpartum period.
• Professional support can significantly aid in postpartum recovery.
• Breathwork and relaxation techniques can help manage stress.
• Building a supportive community is vital for new parents.

Support the show

Want to show your support? Want to help us continue doing this important and impactful work: Support the Show (we greatly appreciate it!)

Don't miss new episodes: Join the Aligned Birth Community

Instagram: Aligned Birth

Email: [email protected]

Find us online:
Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness
North Atlanta Birth Services

Editing: Godfrey Sound
Music: "Freedom” by Roa

Disclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.  

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In this episode of the Aligned Birth Podcast, Dr. Shannon and maternal occupational therapist Kori discuss the importance of maternal health and support during the postpartum period. They explore simple habits that can help mothers thrive, including gratitude practices, movement, and prioritizing daily tasks. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-care and the importance of community support for new mothers.

00:00
Introduction to Aligned Birth Podcast

02:49
Exploring Maternal Occupational Therapy

05:28
Three Simple Habits for Moms

10:12
The Power of Gratitude

14:42
Incorporating Movement into Daily Life

22:58
Choosing One Priority for Daily Success

28:05
Conclusion and Resources

Connect with Kori - Let's Retreat

Support the show

Want to show your support? Want to help us continue doing this important and impactful work: Support the Show (we greatly appreciate it!)

Don't miss new episodes: Join the Aligned Birth Community

Instagram: Aligned Birth

Email: [email protected]

Find us online:
Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness
North Atlanta Birth Services

Editing: Godfrey Sound
Music: "Freedom” by Roa

Disclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.  

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In this episode, Dr. Shannon interviews Kori, an occupational therapist with a focus on maternal health. They discuss the role of occupational therapy in supporting mothers, the importance of community and connection, and the launch of Kori's program, Let's Retreat, which aims to provide support and resources for new moms. The conversation emphasizes the need for postpartum support, the significance of mental health, and the importance of taking ownership of one's postpartum journey.

00:00
Introduction to Occupational Therapy in Maternal Health

04:14
Understanding Occupational Therapy

09:30
The Role of Occupational Therapy in Maternal Health

13:28
Postpartum Support and Resources

18:34
Differences Between Occupational Therapy and Physical Therapy

21:40
Let's Retreat: A Program for Moms

27:39
Conclusion and Future Insights

Connect with Kori - Let's Retreat 

Support the show

Want to show your support? Want to help us continue doing this important and impactful work: Support the Show (we greatly appreciate it!)

Don't miss new episodes: Join the Aligned Birth Community

Instagram: Aligned Birth

Email: [email protected]

Find us online:
Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness
North Atlanta Birth Services

Editing: Godfrey Sound
Music: "Freedom” by Roa

Disclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.  

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This episode is more than a "what to pack in your hospital bag".  We dive into the must-have essentials for your hospital birth bag, but we also talk about what homebirth items you might want to have on hand, that you may not already have. From comfort items to crucial documents, we cover everything you need to ensure a smooth and stress-free hospital birth, but we also chat about the potential for an extended stay at the hospital and what you might want with you.  Tune in to discover tips and tricks that will make your hospital stay or your homebirth more comfortable and organized. Don't miss out on this essential guide for expecting parents!

Support the show

Want to show your support? Want to help us continue doing this important and impactful work: Support the Show (we greatly appreciate it!)

Don't miss new episodes: Join the Aligned Birth Community

Instagram: Aligned Birth

Email: [email protected]

Find us online:
Sunrise Chiropractic and Wellness
North Atlanta Birth Services

Editing: Godfrey Sound
Music: "Freedom” by Roa

Disclaimer: The information shared, obtained, and discussed in this podcast is not intended as medical advice and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional consultation with a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your individual medical needs. By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others.  Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having.  This disclaimer includes  all guests or contributors to the podcast.