In this episode of Delivered, we are so grateful to be joined by Kiona, the creator and podcaster of her amazing show,  Birth As We Know It. Kiona is a mother of 3, a birth doula, a birth assistant, and a former midwife student who has supported over 140 birthing families.  Today we are turning the tables to interview Kiona about her postpartum experiences. 

Postpartum depression is far more than just the “baby blues”—it’s a complex emotional, mental, and physical experience that affects countless new mothers and their families. In this episode, we explore the importance of recognizing the often-overlooked signs of postpartum depression and the critical steps toward healing. From understanding the biological, psychological, and social factors at play to exploring effective treatment options and supportive resources, we shed light on what recovery can look like. Whether you’re a new mom, a partner, or someone who supports mothers, this conversation offers compassion, clarity, and hope for navigating one of the most challenging chapters of motherhood.

Kiona's podcast, Birth As We Know It: Listen on Apple!  Listen on Spotify! 

Kiona's IG: @birthasweknowitpodcast

Athena's episode on the BAWKI podcast, Episode 38:  Click Here!!

Postpartum Support International

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In this episode of Delivered, we are joined by one of my greatest friends, Emilie Reyes, who is a Licensed Massage Therapist and has a powerful story to share! In this deeply personal episode, Emilie will share how past trauma shapes the way we mother—our choices, our fears, our resilience, and our healing. Whether it’s a traumatic event (or two!), pregnancy issues, or birth trauma, trauma doesn’t disappear when a baby arrives; instead, it often resurfaces in unexpected ways. Join us as we sit down with Emilie, who has walked through the fire to discuss how trauma informs the mothering journey—and how, through awareness, support, and healing, those wounds can become a source of strength, resiliency, and wisdom. This episode is a reminder that healing is possible, and that every story matters! 

Terms in this episode:

Prosthetic eye: an artificial eye that is placed when someone does not have an eye or must have one removed after a traumatic event

Eneucleation: the removal of the eye from the orbit

Emilie's Instagram: @emanne319

Emilie's Nuvita link: CLICK HERE!

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In this episode of Delivered, we are so grateful to be joined by Dr. Jessica Vernon, MD, PMH-C. Dr. Jessica is a Board-Certified OB/GYN who has cared for and supported thousands of people throughout their reproductive journeys over the past 15 years. She is the Clinical Director of Product as well as an Associate Medical Director at Oula, a midwifery based women’s health startup in New York City. As a mom of two she brings her lived experience with the transition to parenthood to her work. She has a deep passion for providing holistic, people centered, culturally humble care and has developed programs to increase access to perinatal mental health care and improve health equity. Then Comes Baby is her first book, you can buy it now on Amazon & Barnes & Noble

Join us, as we explore the unique and transformative role of midwifery in supporting women from labor through the often-overlooked postpartum period. Dr. Jessica shares how midwifery care extends beyond the delivery room—offering personalized support, emotional guidance, and holistic healing during the critical weeks and months after birth. Whether you're preparing for a baby, navigating the postpartum fog, or simply curious about the midwifery model of care, this conversation sheds light on why midwives are essential allies in maternal health.

You can learn more about Dr. Jessica at her website: https://www.drjessicavernon.com/ or at her Instagram: @dr.jessicavernon

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In this episode of Delivered, we are so grateful to be joined again by Dr. Mera Keenan. Dr. Keenan is the OB that delivered our baby girl, who will be turning FIVE so soon!! As a board-certified OB, she now serves patients in an OB ER based in the DC area.  Dr. Keenan & I will be discussing some of the most common PPD questions parents have—from early signs and symptoms to treatment options and support strategies. Whether you're a new parent navigating your emotions, a partner looking to help, or a friend seeking to understand, this episode is packed with practical advice, compassionate insights, and real-world stories to help you feel informed and empowered.

Tune in as we tackle the tough questions, break down myths, and share tools for navigating postpartum depression with confidence and care.

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In this episode of Delivered, we are joined by Dr. Jill Garrett, a licensed psychologist who specializes in perinatal mental health.  Dr. Garrett is the founding psychologist and program director of Baptist Health’s maternal mental health program, The Motherhood Space. The Motherhood Space is the first wellness-inspired, mental health day program for moms in the U.S. From navigating the emotional complexities of early motherhood to creating this Space that fosters genuine community, Dr. Garrett shares her expertise and strategies for helping new mothers feel seen, supported, and empowered. Whether you're a new mom, a healthcare provider, or simply someone who cares about maternal wellbeing, this episode offers valuable perspective on why the "space" we create for mothers truly matters. Dr. Garrett is the host of the podcast, Hindsight is 20/20: A Motherhood Feels Podcast, where she interviews seasoned parents on what, in hindsight, they wish they had known ahead of their parenting journey.

You can learn more about her work at www.motherhoodfeels.com, @motherhoodfeels on YouTube, and The Motherhood Space channel on YouTube.

Dr. Jill's social handles include: @motherhoodfeels and @thefatherhoodspace

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In this special episode of Delivered, we are so happy to welcome Lauren back to the show! Lauren brings a wealth of knowledge in the mental health field, with a strong background in the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). In today's episode, we dive deep into the transformative journey of healing within the structure of an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP). Whether you're navigating mental health challenges, postpartum depression, or trauma, an IOP can be a powerful bridge between inpatient care and full independence. We’ll explore what an IOP really looks like, the kinds of support it offers, and why it's such a critical part of so many people's healing journeys. Lauren & I share honest insights, challenges, and victories along the way. If you or someone you love is seeking healing, this episode offers hope, clarity, and real-world perspective on what recovery can look like.

Terms in this Episode:

BACE Model: Body, Achieve, Connect, Enjoy

Derealization: feeling of detachment from the external world. 

To learn more about NAMI, go to National Alliance on Mental Illness website

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In this special episode of Delivered, we are joined by Erin Ference, MSW. She is the Social Work Team Lead for Inpatient Case Management at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville.  In our episode, we dive into the truth that Motherhood is beautiful, but let’s be real—it’s also messy, exhausting, and nothing like the picture-perfect moments we see on social media. We discuss the unfiltered realities of being a mom—the struggles, the guilt, the unexpected challenges, and the moments no one warns you about. From the mental load to the identity shifts, we’re talking about it all with honesty and vulnerability.

Whether you’re a new mom feeling overwhelmed or a seasoned parent, this conversation is here to remind you that you ARE NOT alone. Grab a cup of coffee (or reheat the one you forgot about), and let’s get real about motherhood.

Erin's Instagram: @emr.mrs

For premie parents, the Nuna carseats can accomodate as little as 4lb babies. Shop Nuna Here!

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In this special episode of Delivered, we are so fortunate to be joined again by Sarah Barnett, who is an amazing postpartum doula, chef, and retreat host. In this raw and real episode, we dive into the untold stories of motherhood—the moments that transform, challenge, and empower. Becoming a mother is often portrayed as a joyful journey, but the reality is far more complex, and can bring moments of grief. From losing parts of ourselves to discovering new strengths, motherhood is a path of constant evolution.

Join us as we explore what it means to reclaim your identity amidst the chaos of raising children. We’ll talk about the guilt of wanting time for yourself, the pressure to be the "perfect" mom, and the silent battles many mothers face alone. Through this honest conversation, we’ll uncover how to navigate this hidden journey with grace, resilience, and self-compassion.

Whether you're a new mom trying to find your footing or a seasoned mother seeking to reconnect with who you are, this episode is for YOU. Tune in for an empowering discussion on embracing both the beauty and the struggle of motherhood—without losing sight of yourself.

To learn more about Sarah and her healing retreats, visit thekorujourney.com

Sarah's Instagrams: @yourpostpartumdoula and @thekorujourney

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In this episode of Delivered, we are joined by Dr. Lauren Petrovich, DO. Who is also an Anesthesiologist, Director of OB Anesthesia at St. Vincent Hospital, Advanced BHRT, Integrative and Functional Medicine Physician. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of regenerative medicine and explore groundbreaking, anti-conventional treatments that challenge traditional healthcare norms. Dr. Lauren shares her expertise both in the postpartum world and in the functional medicine realm. For those who love pushing boundaries, this episode is for you.

Don’t forget to subscribe, download, and share this episode with someone who enjoys questioning the status quo.

Dr. Lauren's Instagram: @LAAesthetics_and_wellness

Rethinking Hypothyroidism book, learn more here!

Healthy Kids, Happy Kids book, learn more here!

Zuranolone article, READ HERE!

The Alternative Approach to Anti-depressants, READ HERE!

Medical treatment of PPD, READ HERE!

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In this episode of Delivered, we are joined by Danielle Smith, LCSW, PMH-C.  Danielle is a wife & Mom of three littles, who’s passionate about helping mothers embrace their true potential. Danielle shares her personal journey of overcoming self-doubt, practical strategies for building self-confidence, and the tools every mom needs to thrive in motherhood.

Whether you're navigating sleepless nights, juggling a career, or simply seeking to rediscover yourself, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration to help you feel empowered and confident in your unique journey as a Mom.  Tune in and take the first step toward becoming the most confident version of yourself—because empowered Moms raise empowered families!

Be sure to subscribe, download, and pass this episode along to a Mom who could use a little extra empowerment today! 

Postpartum Support International Resources

Danielle's Instagram: @empoweredmotherhood_

Danielle's support group & other resources: CLICK HERE

To learn more about Danielle, check out her website: https://www.empoweredcounselingnj.com

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