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Are you prepared to challenge conventional wisdom about childbirth, armed with knowledge and the power to make informed decisions? Get ready to join us for a compelling conversation with Maja Miller, a first-time mom who waited until 45 to have her baby. As a functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner and metabolic health coach, Maja shares her personal journey of waiting two years to implant her embryos, ensuring her body was in peak health. She unpacks her birthing experience, candidly discussing her challenges, her eventual C-section, and how she drew upon her knowledge of functional medicine to navigate her choices.

Our discussion dives into Maja's advocacy for her newborn son when hospital norms didn't align with her beliefs. We explore the significance of informed decisions during childbirth and the role of interventions. Maja shares her experiences of challenging the hospital's protocol, like negotiating for donor breast milk instead of sugar water and formula, and refusing a vitamin K shot containing a preservative. She also discusses her desire to forgo an epidural amid her concerns for potential impacts it can have on breastfeeding, and how she ultimately found a way to mitigate those impacts when she opted for a c-section with spinal anesthesia.

Finally, Maja emphasizes the importance of understanding your body's needs and preparing for a healthy pregnancy. She shares her initial negative perception of birth, influenced by the medical system and stor

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Basically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!

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Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

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Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Send us a text

Ready to master the art of breastfeeding? Join us as we sit down with the brilliant Arya Pretlow, a certified nurse midwife, lactation consultant, and yoga therapist, whose wealth of experience guarantees a comprehensive guide to successful breastfeeding. The conversation takes off right from the hospital setting - preparing you to navigate through the complexities and challenges that new parents often face. Arya emphasizes the crucial role of prenatal breastfeeding classes, the potency of a strong support network, and the benefits of a lactation consultant and local La Leche League meetings.

Our discussion with Arya delves deeper as we explore the nuances of the first feed, the importance of patience, and how to best support your newborn during this time. Arya imparts vital tips on achieving a deep latch and highlights the must-know techniques and considerations surrounding breastfeeding. She also addresses the potential influences of spinal anesthesia and the epidural on breastfeeding, underlining the necessity of evaluating the larger picture of labor and delivery when identifying breastfeeding issues.

As we progress, Arya guides us through the fraught process of making informed decisions for infant feeding, particularly for preterm and early-term babies. She stresses the need for healthcare providers to offer more comprehensive education on potential outcomes. Furthermore, we take a closer look at lactation support for pumping and nipple shields and the significance of finding the perfect fit for you. By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with invaluable insights and practical tips from Arya's vast expertise to ensure a rewarding breastfeeding journey. So, why wait? Tune in now!

Connect with Arya at apwellnesservices.com

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community for moms & moms-to-be!

Coaching offer

Kelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth Coach
Basically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!

Support the show

Connect with Kelly at kellyhof.com

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyond

Grab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!

Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Send us a text

Dive into the enthralling world of motherhood with Marie Carle, labor and delivery nurse, as she pulls back the curtain on her personal journey through pregnancy, delivery, and raising children. Marie, a mom to three daughters, brings a unique perspective to the table as she harmoniously merges her professional insights with her personal experiences. From managing gestational diabetes to navigating morning sickness, Marie's story is a testament to the power of resilience, intuition, and the love of a mother.

Stepping onto the labor and delivery floor, we delve into the intricacies of labor support and pain management. Being the child of two anesthesiologists, she has a unique insight into the anesthesia world, which she brings into her practice as a labor and delivery nurse. We discuss the role of partners in managing labor pain, the techniques employed in France, and the critical importance of pain management, particularly for patients who choose not to have an epidural.

Our conversation takes a historical turn as Marie recounts riveting tales from her family history, her parents' Caribbean adventure (Marie made a surprise appearance), and the advent of epidural delivery. We also discuss the significance of rest when you’re dating for a newborn, trusting your i

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community for moms & moms-to-be!

Coaching offer

Kelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth Coach
Basically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!

Buzzsprout - Get your podcast launched!
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brrrBlanc: Practice the Art of Nesting
Eclectic home decor with contemporary reflections on folk & tribal art to help you build your nest.

Femometer Vegan Collagen Gummies
For Radiant Skin, Stronger Hair & Nails

Supports your body's natural collagen production

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly at kellyhof.com

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyond

Grab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!

Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Send us a text

Join us in this enlightening conversation on the world of pediatric chiropractic care with the remarkable Dr. Betel Aklilu. Promising a fresh perspective, Dr. Aklilu shares how chiropractic medicine can be a game-changer for your child's health, starting from birth. Starting with the physical trauma that newborns undergo during childbirth and how chiropractic care can alleviate the stress on their tiny muscles and joints, setting them on a path to optimal nerve and muscle function.

We journey further into the extensive benefits of pediatric chiropractic care. Get insights on how conditions such as torticollis, fluid-filled ears, and latching problems, can be addressed by a pediatric chiropractor. Dr. Aklilu illustrates the transformative Webster technique, a chiropractic method designed to help pregnant people. She also explains how a misaligned atlas can be the root cause of many of the common newborn troubles that many allopathic providers consider to be "normal".

Lastly, we elevate our discussion to encompass the holistic wellness that chiropractic care can bring to your child's life. As Dr. Aklilu underscores, chiropractic solutions are not just for immediate relief but for long-term health. She gives an account of how pediatric chiropractors work hand in hand with other healthcare professionals like pediatric dentists and ENTs to create a comprehensive care plan. In the end, you'll walk away with a newfound understanding of the role of movement in nourishing joints, why it's important not to tightly swaddle a baby's hips and legs, and the benefits of chiropractics for breech babies. This epis

Coaching offer

Kelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth Coach
Basically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!

Femometer Vegan Collagen Gummies
For Radiant Skin, Stronger Hair & Nails

Supports your body's natural collagen production

Buzzsprout - Get your podcast launched!
Start for FREE

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.

Support the show

Connect with Kelly at kellyhof.com

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyond

Grab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!

Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Send us a text

Ever wondered about the untold, raw stories of childbirth and breastfeeding? Today, we walk hand in hand with Alex Wachelka, a certified International Board Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). Her journey is filled with candid experiences of childbirth, the mystery of cluster feeding, the discomfort of 'brick dust' urine and the discovery of education and a career change that transformed her breastfeeding journey. Yes, the road was rocky, but Alex's determination and drive to persevere is a story that will inspire and resonate with many of us.

The second part of our conversation with Alex navigates through her preparation for the birth of her second child. Prepare to be amazed by the hypno birthing techniques that led to a fast, unmedicated birth. Alex shares her secret strategy of collecting her own colostrum before birth, an unconventional yet innovative technique that we delve deeper into. Alex's story, filled with wisdom and practical advice, will help mothers safeguard their milk supply and prepare for any breastfeeding challenges that may come their way.

Finally, we venture into Alex's path towards becoming an IBCLC. We uncover the hurdles of postpartum, the power of trusting one's instincts and the importance of support and information in successfully navigating motherhood. Alex's story is a testament to the strength that resides in all of us, ready to be unleashed. If you're seeking the expertise of an IBCLC like Alex, don’t worry, we've got you covered. Listen in as she shares her contact information for anyone in need. This conversation with Alex Wachelka is a must-listen for mothers and mothers-to-be worldwide. Come, join us on this journey of inspiration, knowledge, and practical strategies.

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community for moms & moms-to-be!

Coaching offer

Kelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth Coach
Basically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!

Support the show

Connect with Kelly at kellyhof.com

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyond

Grab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!

Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Send us a text

Ever found yourself face to face with unexpected health complications during pregnancy, wondering how to navigate the path ahead? I invite you to join me in this special episode, featuring Dr. Amy Tiffany, a board certified physician specializing in internal and lifestyle medicine, and a board certified health and life coach. Dr. Tiffany bravely peels back layers of her own birthing stories, fraught with challenges including gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and heart failure. From weeks-long hospital stays away from her other children, breastfeeding hurdles, to forming that elusive bond with her newborns, Dr. Tiffany's journey is a harrowing tale of resilience in the face of adversity.

However, a silver lining emerged when she took the reins of her health—her struggle with gestational diabetes inspired her to become a fervent advocate for women’s health, educating them about the high risks of type II diabetes and heart disease that can occur post-pregnancy. This journey led her to become her own doctor, offering a unique perspective on self-advocacy and the importance of health education for all mothers-to-be.

Parenting is no stroll in the park, and Dr. Tiffany isn't one to shy away from the hard truths. As our story unfolds, she shares her take on raising children in an environment that encourages learning from failure and resilience. She stresses the importance of intentional parenting, and maintaining a positive mindset, even when times get tough. As we delve into her experiences, we find precious nuggets of wisdom that all parents, new and seasoned, can take away. Tune into our episode and join Dr. Tiffany on this emotional journey of life, learning, and self-discovery.

Connect with Dr. Tiffany at vitalitymwc.com 

Coaching offer

Kelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth Coach
Basically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!

Support the show

Connect with Kelly at kellyhof.com

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyond

Grab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!

Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Send us a text

Ever found yourself questioning what correct positioning during breastfeeding looks like? How it impacts not only the baby's nourishment but also the mother's well-being? Come join the rich conversation we have with Christina Walsh, a physical therapist specializing in integrative manual therapy, as we unveil the answers to these queries and more. Christina brings to the table her wealth of wisdom on how to use pillows creatively for body support, tips on focusing on the baby's latch first, and the significance of posture while breastfeeding.

Navigating the intricacies of women's health, we discuss with Christina the benefits of integrative manual therapy for overcoming pelvic floor issues, abdominal separation, and back and hip tightness. With this holistic approach, traditional solutions are knocked out of the park, paving the way for each woman's unique healing journey. We bring to you compelling stories of women who have found remarkable healing through this method, reinforcing its validity and the hope it brings.

Get ready to explore the influence of Instagram on health and relationships, and delve into the importance of engaging in activities like yoga. Christina addresses common issues like rotator cuff injuries and provides advice on looking after your body during the breastfeeding period. She also highlights how her members program can make this protocol a part of your daily routine. This episode is replete with wisdom and practical tips, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their overall well-being. Be part of this enlightening conversation and discover the path to a healthier you.

Tighten Your Tinkler®️ website: https://www.tightenyourtinkler.com
Use code KELLY50 for $50 off their Signature Program OR Healing From Home 
IG: @tighten.your.tinkler
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Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community for moms & moms-to-be!

Coaching offer

Kelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth Coach
Basically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!

Support the show

Connect with Kelly at kellyhof.com

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyond

Grab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!

Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Send us a text

Have you ever wondered what giving birth in a foreign country might feel like? We plunge into an engaging conversation with Stefanie Fernandes, a certified parenting coach and hypnobirthing teacher, who courageously navigates us through her intriguing birthing experiences in Denmark. Despite encountering language barriers and differences in medical care, Stefanie casts a comforting light on her experiences, describing the warmth and control she felt throughout her journey. She even takes us through the unexpected moment when her labor started at home and she was instructed to wait before heading to the hospital.

As we move deeper into Stefanie's experiences, we discuss the emotional and psychological support available in Denmark, emphasizing the crucial role it played in her and her partner's journey. We learn about Stefanie's various checkups, the preparation by the midwives, and the power of personal affirmations during birth. Furthermore, we explore Stefanie's hypnobirthing experience and the steps her hospital took to promote a more natural birth experience.

Finally, we switch gears to discuss Denmark's child care system, the freedom in their education system, and the immediate need for pelvic floor specialists post-delivery. Stephanie shares her reflections on the unrealistic expectations she had about the postpartum period and how she learned to accept and honor her experiences. We conclude with a deep dive into how mothers can reclaim their birth stories and how healthcare providers can better support this process. This conversation is a treasure trove of insights into birthing, child care, and motherhood from a perspective that might be different from yours. Tune in to get a glimpse of Stefanie's remarkable journey!

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community for moms & moms-to-be!

Coaching offer

Kelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth Coach
Basically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!

Support the show

Connect with Kelly at kellyhof.com

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyond

Grab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!

Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Send us a text

Unlock the truth behind epidurals and labor anesthesia in our enlightening conversation with Dr. Bella Speight, a board certified anesthesiologist.  What are the actual risks? Dr. Speight debunks these myths and lays it all bare, offering a reassuring perspective on the minimal risks involved for healthy patients and the importance of correct positioning during the procedure. She also explores unmedicated delivery, shedding light on why some women may opt for this route.

Dive deeper as Dr. Speight reveals the intricate details about the medications used in epidurals and how they function in the body. Replacing an epidural, preparing for a C-section while an epidural is in place, and managing a one-sided epidural - she covers it all. And it doesn't stop there; she provides a comprehensive look at the symptoms of a spinal headache post-epidural and how to cope with it if you are one of the 1% of people who experiences this. With her expert guidance, you'll walk away with a solid understanding of epidurals, labor anesthesia, and what to expect. So, whether you're a budding parent or simply curious, this episode is a must-listen.

Coaching offer

Kelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth Coach
Basically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!

Support the show

Connect with Kelly at kellyhof.com

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyond

Grab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!

Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.

Send us a text

Welcome to an insightful conversation I had with Megan McCutchen, a therapist who dedicates her career to perinatal mental health. We navigate the murky waters of intrusive thoughts, a common yet unsettling phenomenon among women during pregnancy and after birth. These fleeting thoughts, ranging from harmless fears to catastrophic scenarios, often serve as indicators of postpartum OCD or perinatal anxiety. Megan and I explore how to perceive these thoughts as they are - just thoughts, not reality. We also share practical exercises to steer your mind away from these intrusive thoughts and manage them effectively.

Moving forward, we shed light on postpartum anxiety, a condition that can sometimes present with intrusive thoughts. For new mothers, this can be an overwhelming and bewildering experience. To help you navigate this, Megan offers strategies on how to confront these feelings of anxiety, instead of resisting or running away from them. In cases where these thoughts become too overpowering, we provide various coping mechanisms. We also delve into the role that medication can play when dealing with postpartum anxiety that feels all-consuming.

In the final segment of our conversation, we explore societal pressures and how they can contribute to heightened levels of anxiety. We dissect the societal push for 'toxic independence' and the influence of social media, and how they contribute to escalating stress levels. We also discuss the importance of letting go of the pursuit of perfection when it comes to parenthood. It's crucial to understand that everyone is working hard and deserves compassion and understanding. Remember, there's no such thing as a perfect parent - we're all just doing our best. So join us for this enlightening episode and equip yourself with strategies to better manage intrusive thoughts and anxiety during the perinatal period.

Coaching offer

Kelly Hof: Labor Nurse + Birth Coach
Basically, I'm your birth bestie! With me as your coach, you will tell fear to take a hike!

Support the show

Connect with Kelly at kellyhof.com

Join the Bump & Beyond Online Community!
https://www.facebook.com/groups/bumpnbeyond

Grab The Book of Hormones on Amazon!

Medical Disclaimer:
This podcast is intended as a safe space for women to share their birth experiences. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Each woman’s medical course of action is individual and may not appropriately transfer to another similar situation. Please speak to your medical provider before making any medical decisions. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that evidence based practice evolves as our knowledge of science improves. To the best of my ability I will attempt to present the most current ACOG and AWHONN recommendations at the time the podcast is recorded, but that may not necessarily reflect the best practices at the time the podcast is heard. Additionally, guests sharing their stories have the right to autonomy in their medical decisions, and may share their choice to go against current practice recommendations. I intend to hold space for people to share their decisions. I will attempt to share the current recommendations so that my audience is informed, but it is up to each individual to choose what is best for them.