Fierce, Kind Mama of Multiples

Join me in conversation with Shauna Leven, CEO of Twins Trust - a charity based in the UK that provides evidence-based information and support to multiple-birth families. 

In this interview, Shauna shares with us:

• the origin story of Twins Trust (formerly known as TAMBA) 
• the various services Twins Trust offers, from advocacy work, to campaigning, to bereavement support
• the challenges multiple-birth families face
• the need for more awareness and research into these challenges....and so much more!

Did I mention that Shauna is also a human rights lawyer, a successful campaigner and strategist, and a mother to twins? 

I had so much fun learning about the important work that Twins Trust is doing to support multiple-birth families.

Be sure to head over to the website and check out the amazing work they are doing to support multiple-birth families:

https://twinstrust.org/

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

Join Dr Cristina for an enlightening conversation with Nadja Dinneen, a seasoned acupuncturist with over 15 years of expertise in Women's Health, pregnancy support, birth, and postpartum care. Nadja's approach, deeply rooted in Chinese medicine philosophy, offers a refreshing perspective on women's well-being.

In this episode, Nadja discusses her passion for Chinese Medicine. She delves into the intricacies of pulse diagnosis, revealing how it provides a window into a woman's overall health. By considering the individual's circumstances, Nadja tailors her treatments to harmonize Yin and Yang, balancing energy and nourishing the body.

Nadja's insights into Chi, the vital life force, offers a holistic view of health. She emphasizes the importance of proactive care and the profound impact it can have on a woman's overall well-being.

Nadja sheds light on the often overlooked postpartum period, highlighting the need for increased support and acknowledgment for mothers during this crucial time. Her perspective challenges societal norms, advocating for a shift in how we perceive and value motherhood.

Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese medicine's transformative potential in women's health, and discover how Nadja's approach helps to empower mothers to prioritize their own well-being for the betterment of their families and communities.

You can connect with Nadja here:

Email: [email protected]
Website:
www.nadjasfamilyacupuncture.com

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

In this episode, Alex Weehuizen shares her emotional journey through a twin pregnancy filled with unexpected challenges. From early pregnancy fears to a surprising diagnosis of twin to twin transfusion syndrome, Alex takes us through the highs and lows, culminating in a premature delivery. Her story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the incredible care she received along the way.

Alex is a parenting mentor, postpartum doula, qualified early childhood teacher and mother to twins. She is passionate about respectful and responsive care for both parents and their children. Her challenging perinatal experiences inspired her to establish Precious Beginnings, a 10-week postpartum and parenting programme centered around conversations. Precious Beginnings’ vision is to support parents so that they can connect with other parents in the same season of life and grow in their parenting confidence.

CONTENT NOTE:

In this episode, she talks about her experience of miscarriage, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome and postpartum anxiety. 

Here are some services in Australia for those that may need support around pregnancy loss or postpartum anxiety. 

https://www.pregnancylossaustralia.org.au/

https://www.sands.org.au/

http://www.panda.org.au

Crisis lines (24-hour support):

LIFELINE

​13 11 14

http://www.lifeline.org.au
 
 

BEYOND BLUE
1300 22 4636

http://www.beyondblue.org.au
 
 

I hope you enjoy this episode!

You can connect with Alex here:

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nurtured.parenting/

Website: www.nurtured.net.nz

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

In this solo episode, Dr. Cristina delves into the concept of independence, examining it from the perspectives of both parents and children. The inspiration for this discussion came from a listener's question about co-sleeping with her four-year-old twins. This query prompted a broader exploration of infant and childhood sleep patterns and the societal norms surrounding independent sleeping.

The episode delves into the historical and cultural practices surrounding sleep. From communal sleeping to  private bedrooms, Dr. Cristina discusses how this transition was driven by concerns of modesty and privacy, reflecting evolving societal norms.

She also discusses co-sleeping, a practice that varies widely across cultures. Dr. Cristina emphasizes the importance of understanding these practices within their cultural and historical contexts. She acknowledges that co-sleeping remains a topic of contention, with differing perspectives on its benefits and risks.

Dr. Cristina challenges the idea that independence should be the ultimate goal for both parents and children. Drawing from compassion-focused therapy, she asserts that humans are inherently wired for nurturance and connection. She emphasizes that interdependence is a defining feature of humanity, essential for survival and overall well-being.

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

October is pregnancy and infant loss awareness month. 

CONTENT NOTE:

On today’s episode I am joined by Dr Natasha Davison who speaks about twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome and pregnancy loss which I know can be distressing.

Here are some relevant links if you need resources or support around pregnancy loss:

https://www.pregnancylossaustralia.org.au/

https://www.sands.org.au/

https://www.miraclebabies.org.au/content/loss-of-your-twin-or-triplet-baby/gjsr3c

https://www.pinkelephants.org.au/

https://www.bearsofhope.org.au/

Crisis lines (24 hour support):

LIFELINE

​13 11 14
 www.lifeline.org.au

BEYOND BLUE
1300 22 4636
www.beyondblue.org.au

In this poignant episode, Dr. Natasha Davison, a psychologist and high performance coach, opens up about her deeply personal journey through pregnancy, loss, and resilience. Dr. Davison's story is one of unexpected twists, from the surprise of a twin pregnancy after initially believing she'd only conceived one child, to the devastating diagnosis of Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS).

As she recounts the emotional rollercoaster of hope and heartbreak, Dr. Davison reflects on the strength required to navigate such challenging circumstances. The vivid account of her in utero procedure and subsequent complications is a testament to the courage and tenacity she embodied during this trying period.

Tragically, on May 1st a decade ago, Dr. Davison experienced the unimaginable loss of both twins. Her candid narrative touches on the profound impact of this event and the complex grief that followed.

However, this episode is not solely about loss, but also about resilience. Dr. Davison shares the transformational process she underwent in the aftermath, ultimately leading her to return to her work as a psychologist and high performance coach. Her unique perspective, drawn from personal experience, now serves as a beacon of hope for others facing adversity.

Join us in this deeply moving conversation as Dr. Davison honors the memory of her twin boys and imparts invaluable wisdom on finding strength in the face of heartbreak. Her journey is a testament to the human capacity for resilience, offering solace and inspiration to all who listen.

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

October is pregnancy and infant loss awareness month.  Today, we have the honour of hosting a distinguished guest, Dr. Erin Bowe. Erin is not only a clinical and perinatal psychologist, but also a course creator and business mentor. Her expertise has touched lives across 45 countries through her mental health courses, and she's the author of two transformative books: "More Than a Healthy Baby: Finding Strength and Growth After Birth Trauma" and "Social Media Detox for Moms: A New Way to Find Balance".

In this insightful conversation, Erin opens up about her own experience with birth trauma, providing a candid and heartfelt account of her journey. With warmth and wisdom, she guides us through recognizing the signs of birth trauma and offers invaluable advice for parents of multiples who may have faced a difficult or challenging birth.

Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:

·        Personal Resilience and Growth: Erin's personal journey serves as a beacon of hope for those who have experienced birth trauma. She shares how she transformed her traumatic birth into a source of strength and growth, inspiring others to find their own path to healing.

·        Recognizing Birth Trauma: Erin provides valuable insights into recognizing the signs of birth trauma. By shedding light on this often-overlooked aspect of the perinatal experience, she empowers parents to seek the support and care they deserve.

·        Navigating Trauma as Parents of Multiples: With a deep understanding of the the effects of birth trauma on mothers and fathers, Erin offers practical advice on how to navigate trauma while caring for more than one child.

This episode is a testament to the power of resilience and the potential for growth, even in the face of profound challenges. Dr. Erin Bowe's compassionate guidance and expert knowledge provide a beacon of hope for parents seeking to heal from birth trauma.

Tune in to this episode to gain invaluable insights on navigating trauma and finding strength in your journey as a parent. Remember to share this episode with anyone who may find comfort and inspiration from Erin's personal and professional experience.
 
 CONTENT NOTE: Some listeners may find details of this episode upsetting. If you need support around birth trauma and you are located in Australia, you can call the PANDA National Helpline on 1300 726 306 for assistance.
 
 To find out more about Dr Erin Bowe:
 [email protected]

https://doctorerin.com.au/

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

In this insightful solo episode, I delve into a crucial and often overlooked aspect of the multiple birth journey: the emotional wellbeing of expectant mothers. Drawing from personal experiences and professional expertise, I explore the range of emotions that can arise upon discovering the news of expecting multiples. I highlight the need for early and consistent emotional support for both mothers and partners, emphasizing that this aspect is just as vital as physical health during pregnancy.

The episode emphasizes that emotional preparation is key to not only thriving but finding fulfillment in the demanding yet rewarding journey of parenting multiples.

Join me for an episode that sheds light on the significance of proactive emotional care in the journey towards a balanced and joyful multiple birth experience. Whether you're an expectant mother, a partner, or someone passionate about supporting parents of multiples, this episode offers valuable insights.

Free Workshop Coming Soon!
If you are an expectant mother of multiples, or you know anyone else who is, then you are going to love my three-part workshop: How to Beat Overwhelm and Prepare for Raising Multiples. It's completely free and if you can't attend live, you'll get 7-day access to the recordings! Head over to my website for all the details and feel free to share this with anyone else who might benefit. https://www.fiercekindmama.com/

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

In this enlightening episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of twinship dynamics with the incredible Dr. Katie Wood. Dr. Wood is not only a psychologist with extensive experience in twinship issues, but she also brings a unique perspective as a sibling to identical twins herself.

👥 Twinship Realities Unveiled:
Contrary to popular belief, not all twins share an idyllic bond. Dr. Wood sheds light on the reality that not all twins get along, exploring the complexities of their relationships and the factors that contribute to their dynamic.

🎭 Celebrating Sameness and Difference:
Discover the delicate art of celebrating the similarities while respecting the differences within twin pairs. Dr. Wood delves into how parents and twins themselves can strike the perfect balance, nurturing a supportive and understanding environment.

🏆 The Unspoken Competition:
Competition can be a natural part of any relationship, and twins are no exception. Dr. Wood uncovers both the spoken and unspoken competitions that can arise between twins and provides insights on managing these dynamics.

🌐 Navigating the Twin Social World:
Explore how the social world of twins differs from that of singletons and gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges and benefits twins experience in their interactions with others.

🚪 Exclusion and Inclusion:
The twinship dynamic can sometimes leave parents and siblings feeling excluded. Dr. Wood addresses these feelings and offers strategies to foster inclusivity within the twin relationship and the larger family context.

🛤️ The Three Parts of Twinship:
Dr. Wood introduces the concept of the three parts of the twinship dynamic and how to nurture each part to promote healthy growth and understanding.

🤝 Understanding Twin Psychology:
By sharing her personal experiences and professional expertise, Dr. Wood invites us to comprehend the intricate psychology of twins, offering valuable insights for twins, parents, and anyone interested in understanding this unique relationship.

Tune in to this enriching conversation as we unravel the complexities, joys, and challenges of twinship dynamics. Whether you're a twin yourself, a parent of multiples, or simply curious about the world of twins, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and wisdom. 🎧👥

Dr. Wood can be contacted on [email protected]

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

On today’s episode, I share a review from Emma, mother of identical twins. 

She writes: "Wow, I've just listened to the first episode of your podcast. Just about everything you have said mimics my life currently, with identical twin boys. I'm so excited to keep listening and to learn and grow. Thank you so much for this. Exactly what I need right now."

Thank you Emma for this feedback. I'm so glad that the podcast resonates with your experience as I hope it will for others too. 

If you have any feedback or questions for me, please feel free to email me at [email protected]

I also announced a webinar I am hosting very soon too.  Love Rekindled: “Baby-Proofing” Your Relationship with Multiples. If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples looking to maintain or strengthen your bond and intimacy with your partner, then this webinar is for you!

You can find all the details at www.fiercekindmama.com/workshop

----

Today, I am joined by Rebecca Pearce. Rebecca Pearce is a Psychologist and Body Confidence Coach. She helps women create a healthy relationship with their bodies so they can feel empowered, live authentically, break free from diet-culture and body-shame, and become healthy role models for the next generation. She works from the belief that your body is an amazing vessel for your soul, precious and unique, deserving of self-compassion and nurturing. That what it looks like does not define its worth. Her online coaching and group program allows women to better understand and transform the relationship they have with their bodies.

In this episode, we discuss how women can have a healthy relationship with their bodies after a multiple birth pregnancy and how as mothers we can instill body confidence in our children.  

I hope you enjoy this conversation.

---

You can reach Rebecca here:

[email protected]
https://www.facebook.com/RebeccaPearcePsychologist/

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB

On today’s episode, I speak with Tiffany Rochester, Founding CEO of Co-Parenting Companion, a business which provides coaching support to separated co-parents, with a focus on helping parents establish healthy boundaries and clear communication to find collaborative solutions.

In this episode, we discuss the following:

·        her work in helping separated parents successfully co-parent;

·        the role of evolution in how separated parents navigate shared care;

·        why both parents play an important role in children’s development;

·        how separated parents can effectively handle conflict. 

How to get in touch with Tiffany:

Email:  [email protected]

Facebook: fb.me/coparentingCompanion/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coparentingcompanion/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/co-parenting-companion/

Website: https://coparentingcompanion.au/

 In the episode Tiffany also refers to another service that can be found here: www.collaborativeprofessionals.com.au

Thanks for listening! If you are a soon-to-be or current parent of multiples, be sure to head over to my website http://www.fiercekindmama.com to get my FREE resources designed specifically for you!

Be sure to follow me on Instagram and Facebook too.

Credits:
Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):
https://uppbeat.io/t/aylex/with-you
License code: YLMJTQCPKRANEOVB