Episode Overview: Part Two of Three

In this continuation of our conversation with Dr. Stuart Fischbein (“Dr. Stu”), we dig into some of the most hotly debated topics in maternity and newborn care — from vitamin K injections and vaccine safety to antibiotics in labor and the pressures families face inside medical systems.

Dr. Stu unpacks the controversy around vitamin K, explaining what the evidence does and doesn’t say about early versus late-onset deficiency bleeding, and why the decision ultimately rests with parents. We explore how hospital protocols, financial incentives, and medical algorithms shape the options presented to families — often without full transparency about risks, benefits, or alternatives.

This episode also touches on broader themes of trust in science, how to read research critically, and the systemic forces driving interventions that may not always serve mothers and babies. Together, we challenge the assumption that “more is always better” and ask what it looks like to truly respect nature’s design and parental choice.

Key Takeaways

• Vitamin K isn’t black-and-white — parents deserve clear, balanced information about real risks versus benefits.
• Context matters — protocols like antibiotics for GBS or postpartum vaccines may not always be necessary and carry trade-offs.
• Follow the money — financial incentives and hospital coding systems often influence care more than evidence, in systems like the USA has.
• Science isn’t neutral — understanding bias, conflicts of interest, and study design is essential when evaluating research.
• Informed choice is the goal — every family has the right to weigh evidence, question protocols, and make decisions without coercion.

Don’t forget to follow along on Instagram, @BusyMomTalk, and share what stood out most to you from this part of the conversation. Stay tuned for Part Three!

Episode Overview: Part One of Three

In this episode of Busy Mom Talk, I sit down with Dr. Stuart Fischbein — or “Dr. Stu,” as many of you know him. Dr. Stu is an OB-GYN who has been practicing for over 36 years and is internationally recognized for his advocacy of informed decision-making, respectful maternity care, and the midwifery model of birth. After training in the traditional medical model at Cedars-Sinai, he went on to spend decades collaborating with midwives and supporting families choosing home and birth center deliveries. He is also the co-author of Fearless Pregnancy and the host of the Birthing Instincts podcast.

We dive deep into how the world of medicine has changed, from the increasing financial pressures driving unnecessary procedures to the way pregnancy is too often treated as a medical “high-risk condition” rather than a natural process. Dr. Stu shares his journey from hospital-based obstetrics to working alongside midwives in community settings, and now to teaching and consulting globally on breech and twin births.

We also unpack the political narratives that shape modern maternity care and how reclaiming informed decision-making and collaboration can restore trust, safety, and dignity for birthing people everywhere.

Key Takeaways

• Pregnancy isn’t a pathology — Treating every woman as “high risk” creates fear instead of trust.
• Financial and systemic pressures shape care — Procedures are often driven by profit, not evidence or compassion.
• Collaboration is key — Obstetricians and midwives working together provides safer, more respectful options for families.
• Informed decision-making is a human right — Every family deserves evidence, options, and autonomy in birth.
• Core obstetric skills are disappearing — Breech and twin vaginal births are essential practices that must be preserved and taught.
• Vitamin K post birth, in majority of cases - is it necessary?

Don’t forget to follow along on Instagram, @BusyMomTalk, and let us know what resonated most with you!

Episode Overview

In this episode of Busy Mom Talk, I sit down with Lauren Hurley, a pediatric developmental consultant, certified sleep and toilet training coach, and mom of three. After years in the public sector, Lauren founded Nurturing Roots Consulting to offer holistic, judgment-free support to families navigating the highs and lows of early childhood.

We talk openly about the social pressures moms face—especially when sleep isn’t coming easily, potty training feels like a battle, or developmental milestones look different than expected. Lauren shares her compassionate approach, especially in working with neurodivergent children and families with autism diagnoses. Her focus is on empowering parents and respecting each child’s individual timeline without shame or pressure.

If you're exhausted from trying to follow “one-size-fits-all” advice, this episode will bring you relief, reassurance, and resources you can actually use.

Key Takeaways

• Development is not linear — Every child grows at their own pace, and that’s okay.
• Sleep and potty training don’t need to be stressful — Gentle, individualized strategies are more effective than rigid timelines.
• Social pressure is real — But parenting isn’t about perfection. Lauren encourages moms to trust their instincts.
• Neurodivergent children thrive with the right support — Especially when families feel heard, supported, and not rushed.
• Holistic support includes the whole family — When parents are nurtured too, everyone does better.

Don't forget to follow along on instagram, @BusyMomTalk and let us know what resonates most with you!

Episode Overview:

In this powerful and timely episode of Busy Mom Talk, Kianna sits down with Dr. Shazma Mithani—an emergency room physician, Alberta-based mom, and passionate advocate for evidence-based medicine in the digital age. With a growing presence on social media, Dr. Mithani uses her platform to break down misinformation and build trust between the public and the healthcare system.

Together, we dive into the everyday challenges Dr. Mithani faces in the ER, from witnessing the impacts of delayed care due to medical mistrust, to the rise in misinformation online that leaves so many parents feeling confused and scared. As a mom herself, she understands the emotional weight of trying to make the best decisions for your child, especially in a world where credible, clear, and compassionate information is hard to find.

We talk about how and where parents can access reliable, evidence-based medical resources, and why so much research still excludes key groups—especially pregnant women and children. Dr. Mithani also opens up about the personal toll of being an ER doctor, working in one of the highest-burnout medical specialties, and how healthcare providers are deeply human too.

This conversation is raw, real, and incredibly important for moms who:

• Struggle to know what medical information they can trust.
• Feel overwhelmed or anxious about making health decisions.
• Want to understand how to advocate for themselves and their families in a complex system.
• Crave honest dialogue about motherhood, burnout, and being seen beyond a diagnosis.

Dr. Mithani’s dual perspective—as a frontline physician and a mom—brings a rare honesty and empathy that every listener will appreciate.

🎧 Don’t miss this essential episode. It might just shift how you approach your next medical decision.

📱 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube 📢 Don’t forget to follow, rate, review, and share the show to help other moms find us! ✨ Follow along @busymomtalk for more mom-centered content

Overview:

• Alex shares the emotional leap from a secure corporate career into the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship and content creation.
• Real talk on becoming a mom of two and the identity shift that comes with motherhood, ambition, and burnout.
• The frightening reality of parenting a child with FPIES, and how social media masks the messy, medical, and mental toll behind the scenes.

Episode Summary:

In this powerful episode, Kia sits down with Alexandra Weisseneder—mom of two, former corporate girlie turned content creator—for a candid conversation on all the things we don’t post. Alex opens up about walking away from a stable job to find purpose and flexibility in motherhood, while navigating life online and off. From the invisible labor of being a mom in the spotlight to the terrifying moments of parenting a child with FPIES, this episode strips away the filters and gives you the reality behind the curated squares.

🎧 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and follow @busymomtalk for more raw and real conversations just like this one. 💛

Episode 1 – A New Chapter: The Start of Busy Mom Talk

Hosted by Kia | Airing Sundays at 8PM

In this powerful premiere episode, Kia — mom of two (ages 18 months and 4 years) — launches Busy Mom Talk, a raw and real podcast created by moms, for moms. She opens up about the emotional journey from her birth trauma that was recently shared on her previously ended podcast to this new, stronger platform.

Kia shares her vision for Busy Mom Talk as more than just a podcast — it's the beginning of a non-profit movement aimed at closing the systemic gaps moms and parents face every day. With a focus on evidence-based information, unbiased support, and honest lived storytelling, this podcast will build a safe space for connection, conversation, and community.

Listeners can expect:

• Weekly episodes every Sunday at 8PM EST
• Real stories from real moms
• Educational discussions backed by research
• Opportunities for outreach, local events, and support initiatives

This episode sets the tone for what's to come — a podcast rooted in truth, motherhood, and the collective power of busy moms everywhere.

Episode Overview:

In this compelling continuation of Kia's story, she bravely shares her harrowing experience with recurrent postpartum hemorrhage, leading to multiple surgeries and a uterine infection. Kia opens up about the profound physical and emotional trauma, including how her severe medical complications were initially overlooked or dismissed, mimicking postpartum depression.

From the terrifying ordeal of fearing of losing her life, to the deep sense of isolation and loss of connections that followed, Kia recounts her journey of survival and transformation. She discusses the critical importance of self-advocacy in a system that didn't always listen and how these life-altering events reshaped her entire perspective, instilling a profound appreciation for life and a drive to live with purpose. This episode is a powerful testament to resilience, the fight for recognition, and the vital need for mothers to trust their instincts and demand the care they deserve.

Key Topics Covered

• Recurrent Postpartum Hemorrhage: Kia details her terrifying experience with three instances of postpartum hemorrhage.
• Isolation and Relationship Strain: The impact of her traumatic experience on her connections and relationships, leading to feelings of isolation.
• Near-Death Experience & Transformed Outlook: How facing mortality profoundly changed her perspective on life, its preciousness, and her own drive.
• The Power of Self-Advocacy: Kia emphasizes the critical need for mothers to advocate for their health and well-being.
• Finding Support (A Small Village): The importance of even a small support system ("a small village is better than none at all") in navigating postpartum challenges.
• Seeking and Accepting Help: Highlighting the necessity of asking for the help you need.
• Setting Boundaries & Trusting Maternal Instinct: The importance of establishing boundaries and following your motherly intuition.

Final Thoughts

Kia's powerful account is a profound reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the critical importance of maternal voice in healthcare. By sharing her traumatic journey and subsequent rebirth, she aims to shed light on the devastating impact of severe postpartum complications, the necessity of being heard, and the transformative power of advocating for oneself. Her story champions the message that even in the face of uncertainty and isolation, healing and a renewed sense of purpose are possible.

For more insights and community support, follow us on Instagram: @BirthBabiesBusyMoms

Episode Overview:

In this deeply personal continuation, Dayna opens up about the enduring emotional and physical aftermath of her traumatic first birth. She candidly discusses the guilt she carries, the contrasting bonds with her two children, and the long-term impacts of a forceps-assisted delivery.

From navigating her new life as a mother, to confronting the emotional toll of unacknowledged pain, Dayna shares her journey through a system that often left her unheard. She reflects on the challenges of seeking psychological support, the barriers to accessing essential resources, and how these experiences fueled her commitment to creating this podcast.

This episode is a heartfelt exploration of healing, advocacy, and the power of sharing one's story to ensure no mother feels alone in her journey.

Key Topics Covered

• Emotional Aftermath: Dayna delves into the guilt and complex emotions stemming from her first birth experience.
• Mother-Child Bonding: She discusses the differing relationships with her children and how birth experiences influenced these bonds.
• Physical Recovery: Insights into the challenges faced due to pelvic floor injuries.
• Mental Health Journey: The struggle to access psychological support and the impact of delayed care.
• Systemic Barriers: An examination of the healthcare system's shortcomings in providing adequate postpartum support.
• Advocacy and Empowerment: How these experiences inspired Dayna to create a platform for mothers to share and heal.

Final Thoughts

Dayna's story is a testament to resilience and the importance of speaking out. By sharing her journey, she aims to break the silence surrounding birth trauma and advocate for better support systems for all mothers.

For more insights and community support, follow us on Instagram: @BirthBabiesBusyMoms

Episode Overview

In this episode, Dr. Yolanda Kirkham, MD an experienced OB-GYN, surgeon, and mom, joins Dayna to demystify what pregnancy, birth, and postpartum really look like—both in and out of the clinic. With warmth and candor, Dr. Kirkham shares insights from her years of caring for patients across the reproductive lifespan, while also reflecting on her own experiences with new motherhood. From evidence-based care to the emotional realities of postpartum recovery, this conversation bridges expert knowledge with lived experience.

Together, they unpack the gaps in Canada’s maternal healthcare system, the importance of continuity of care, and why we need to talk more openly about everything from birth plans to pelvic floor health. Whether you’re expecting, postpartum, or simply curious about what OB-GYNs really do, this episode is packed with practical advice, myth-busting, and validation.

Key Topics Covered

What OB-GYNs Actually Do Dr. Kirkham walks us through her day-to-day role, from prenatal appointments to surgery and advocacy. She clarifies the difference between OB-GYNs, midwives, and family doctors—and how to know which provider is right for your pregnancy.

Informed Care & Shared Decision-Making We explore what informed consent really means during pregnancy and birth. Dr. Kirkham shares how she guides patients through everything from Group B Strep (GBS) testing to managing high-risk pregnancies with compassion and clarity.

The Postpartum Reality Check From mental health to breastfeeding struggles, Dr. Kirkham gets real about what surprised her most after becoming a mom herself. She shares why every birthing person deserves care that supports their full recovery—not just the baby’s health.

System Gaps & Self-Advocacy Why is postpartum care so limited in Canada? What happens when patients don’t feel heard? Dr. Kirkham breaks down how to advocate for yourself at every stage of the journey—and why respectful, person-centered care must become the norm.

Myths, Facts & Real Talk From apple cider vinegar “cures” to pelvic floor misconceptions, Dr. Kirkham busts some of the biggest myths she hears as an OB—and replaces them with honest, evidence-based insights.

Key Takeaways

• OB-GYNs are trained to care for people throughout their reproductive years—not just during pregnancy.
• You have the right to ask questions and understand every intervention, test, and choice during your care.
• The postpartum period requires more support than most people get—especially around recovery, feeding, and mental health.
• It’s okay to need help, and it’s powerful to speak up when something doesn’t feel right.
• Not everything you hear on the internet is true—evidence-based info matters.

Final Thoughts

This episode is a deep breath for anyone navigating pregnancy or postpartum. With her rare blend of clinical expertise and personal honesty, Dr. Yolanda Kirkham reminds us that informed, respectful care is possible—and necessary. Whether you’re preparing for birth, recovering from it, or just trying to understand your options, you’ll walk away from this episode feeling seen, supported, and empowered.

Looking for more expert tips or to connect with Dr. Kirkham? Find her on Instagram @dryolandamd and continue the conversation with us @BirthBabiesBusyMoms.

Episode Overview

In this episode, Antea Ćorluka, founder of The Mama Coach Ottawa and a former labor and delivery nurse with over 15 years of experience, joins Dayna & Kia for a conversation that bridges the gap between medical care and real-life motherhood. Drawing from her deep roots in the healthcare system and her passion for family-centered support, Antea shares how she now empowers moms through education, advocacy, and hands-on coaching — from sleep support and lactation to CPR and potty training. Together, they explore the importance of informed consent, trusting your instincts, and knowing that you deserve help in motherhood.

Key Topics Covered

From Nurse to Mama Coach Antea shares why she transitioned from the hospital floor to family homes — and what she saw lacking in postpartum and perinatal care. Her work now focuses on meeting families where they are and filling in the emotional and practical gaps left by a stretched system.

The Power of Your Labor Nurse With firsthand insight, Antea explains how your labor nurse can be one of your strongest advocates during birth. She breaks down how nurses support informed consent, protect your preferences, and help you feel seen and heard — especially when interventions like inductions are on the table.

Advocacy, Consent & Respect in Birth Too often, birthing people are rushed into decisions without full information. Antea talks about what true informed consent looks like, and why it’s essential to ask questions, pause, and trust your inner voice during labor and delivery.

Sleep, Feeding & Support From lactation and sleep coaching to baby-led weaning and potty training, Antea offers wraparound support to growing families. She encourages moms to stop “toughing it out” and instead reach for the tools and professionals that can make life smoother.

Bonus: Infant CPR Workshop Antea walks through the basics of infant CPR in a hands-on mini workshop. Catch the full demonstration on our Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms!

Key Takeaways

• Your labor nurse can be a powerful ally — don't be afraid to lean on them and ask for what you need.
• Informed consent means understanding your options fully and feeling empowered to make the right call for you.
• Not every intervention is necessary — you have the right to question and slow things down.
• The postpartum period is no time to go it alone. Support for sleep, feeding, and toddler transitions is available — and you deserve it.
• Knowing CPR can save a life. Every parent should feel confident in those skills.

Final Thoughts

Motherhood doesn’t come with a manual — but with the right guidance, you can feel less overwhelmed and more supported. Antea Ćorluka brings compassion, clarity, and clinical experience to this episode, reminding us that we all deserve informed, respectful care. Whether you’re navigating birth, sleepless nights, or new toddler milestones, this episode is a warm reminder: help is out there, and you’re not alone.

Wondering how you can grow your village? Join the conversation on Instagram @BirthBabiesBusyMoms!