Oh, Baby Podcast

Your anxiety is loud, your intuition whispers, and if you’re a mom living in constant go-mode, this conversation will change how you hear both. Lauren sits down with nervous system expert Daryl McInnis to unpack why so many women feel like they’re one second from unraveling, and why the real issue is often not bad parenting, but a body that never learned what safety feels like. Daryl shares how her work moved beyond traditional therapy and into nervous system healing after seeing the same patterns repeat in her clients and in herself. She breaks down why so many of us get stuck in survival mode, how childhood caretaking, scarcity, and hypervigilance shape adult motherhood, and why being “high functioning” can still mean you’re deeply dysregulated underneath.You'll discover:

• Why your body can react to parenting triggers like you’re still a kid
• How to tell the difference between hyperarousal, hypoarousal, and actual regulation
• The simple 3-minute practice Daryl uses to build safety and interrupt spirals
• Why anxiety often screams while intuition whispers
• How apology, storytelling, and repair help kids process conflict instead of storing trauma

Lauren and Daryl also get real about inherited patterns, control, people-pleasing, and the fear that if you stop holding everything together, everything will fall apart. Daryl explains why that fear is information, not failure, and how small shifts like a physiological sigh, a grounding mantra, or just 1% more pleasure can help bring you back into your body.This episode is especially powerful if you’re a mother, a caregiver, or anyone who secretly wonders whether “survival mode” is just their personality. Daryl’s message is simple but life-changing: you do not have to be a perfect mother to raise emotionally healthy kids. You just have to keep coming back.Perfect for moms who feel overwhelmed, cycle-breakers trying to do it differently, and anyone ready to trade self-blame for a better understanding of the nervous system.

Daryl is a therapist, coach, and nervous system practitioner who specializes in helping people understand the body-based patterns behind anxiety, survival mode, and emotional regulation. She is the creator of the Nervous System Workbook: A 7-Day Reset and shares practical tools for healing on Instagram and through her coaching work.

Socials & More: https://linktr.ee/ohbabyt

Daryl's Workbook: https://a.co/d/0dbOXduE

Daryl's Social: @darylvaleco @theregulatedlife.co

• Why motherhood can become your biggest business advantage
• How to turn existing skills into paid services, even if you’ve been out of the workforce for years
• The non-negotiables Sara uses to stay productive without burning out
• How to set boundaries early so clients respect your time
• Why “one door closes, another opens” is more than a cliché when your life gets shaken up

Sara also opens up about imposter syndrome, the pressure of trying to be everything to everyone, and the lesson she learned the hard way after burnout. Along the way, she shares the mindset that helped her rebuild after losing her corporate job, create a business that fit her family, and now coach women around the world to do the same.This is essential listening for moms, aspiring founders, and anyone who needs a reminder that your next chapter can start with the thing you never saw coming.Sara Reyes is the founder of Assist by Sarah, a virtual assistant business turned coaching platform, and the creator of a parent-focused co-working space on the Sunshine Coast. She helps women turn their skills into flexible businesses that support both income and family life.Follow Sara on Instagram @assistbysara or connect with her on LinkedIn at Sara Reyes.

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Three identical triplet boys. One placenta. One terrifying prognosis. And a mom who chose faith when doctors told her to consider the unthinkable.Tyler opens up about the shock of finding out at 15 weeks that she was carrying mono tri triplets, the rarest kind of identical triplets, and the emotional whiplash of trying to process it all while keeping the news from her husband until the gender reveal. What should have been a celebration became a moment her family will never forget - and the hardest secret Tyler has ever had to carry.Then the conversation turns deeply personal as Tyler shares the medical scare that changed everything at 22 weeks, when doctors warned that one baby might not make it past 24 weeks and pushed options that would have changed her family forever. She talks about being sent from South Carolina to Boston for high-risk care, the daily two-hour drives to Charleston, and the decision to trust God, keep monitoring, and hold onto hope when everything felt uncertain. You'll discover:

• What mono tri triplets actually means and why this pregnancy was so rare and high-risk
• How Tyler processed the diagnosis, the fear, and the pressure to make impossible decisions
• Why she says her singleton pregnancy was harder than carrying triplets
• What 75 days in the NICU was really like with three babies and a five-year-old daughter at home
• How her daughter Nova became the family’s unexpected rock star
• Why Tyler now believes three babies can sometimes be easier than one

Lauren and Tyler also talk candidly about the trauma-bond that formed in the NICU, the need for real support from other moms, and the way motherhood reshapes everything from identity to self-care. Tyler shares how she protects her family, manages life with four kids, and refuses to compare her boys against one another as they hit milestones at different speeds.This episode is a powerful reminder that motherhood is not a performance - it's patience, discernment, and fierce protection. Perfect for NICU parents, moms navigating medical uncertainty, or anyone who needs a raw, hopeful story about trusting your instincts when the stakes are highest.

- host of O Baby, guiding the conversation with warmth, honesty, and her own NICU perspective.

- mom of four, dental hygienist, and rare triplet mother sharing the story of her high-risk pregnancy, NICU journey, and hard-won perspective on motherhood.

Dont forget to like and subscribe! Join us on facebook, instagram & tik tok! @oh.baby.t

Follow along with Tyler and her life on tik tok @bunsxoxoxo "Identical Triplet Chaos"

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A trach does not end a child’s life - and Olivia has the story that proves it. If you’re a medical mom, a NICU parent, or anyone fighting to get your child home, this conversation will hit hard and give you hope.Lauren sits down with her friend Olivia, whose son Baylor was born at 27 weeks, spent months in the NICU, and faced a devastating set of diagnoses including bronchomalacia, a grade four brain hemorrhage, a PDA, MRSA, and repeated reintubations. Olivia shares the moment she pushed to start the trach conversation, the family meeting that introduced comfort care as an option, and why she knew Baylor’s path was different. You’ll hear how Olivia became her son’s fiercest advocate and why she says parents need to be treated as part of the medical team. She opens up about the trauma of being dismissed by hospital staff, the pressure of navigating DME companies and caregiver support, and what it feels like to constantly prove you know your own child.We also break down the real-life side of trach parenting that people never see - suctioning, oxygen tanks, emergency bags, hospital procedures, school events, family vacations, and the tiny wins that mean everything. Olivia also talks about her other three children, two of whom have their own medical needs, and how her family has learned to build a life around compassion instead of fear.Olivia and Lauren get honest about the judgment medical families face, the questions people are too afraid to ask, and the importance of letting kids live fully within their limitations. From the NICU to the grocery store to Disney trips and everyday milestones, this episode is a reminder that a trach kid can still be a kid.Essential listening if you need encouragement, practical perspective, or a reminder that you are not alone in the fight. Olivia is also on TikTok at @trachmomunfiltered

sharing Baylor’s journey in real time.

https://linktr.ee/ohbabyt

IVF can break your body, your bank account, and your heart - and Cait Fullam lived every brutal part of it. From stage four endometriosis to failed retrievals, false hope, and the grief of walking away from a dream she fought for years to build, this is the raw truth about infertility no one prepares you for.Lauren sits down with her high school friend Cait for an unfiltered conversation about pain, advocacy, faith, and what it means to keep going when every doctor seems to say no. Cait shares how years of severe period pain led to an endometriosis diagnosis, why finding the right fertility specialist became a battle in itself, and what it felt like to go through multiple IVF clinics only to hear her chances were less than 1%.You’ll hear:

• What stage four endometriosis actually does to the body, and why it is so often dismissed
• The shocking advice Cait received from fertility doctors, including treatments that felt more like experiments than care
• What three egg retrievals, one embryo, and one devastating final result taught her about hope and limits
• How IVF changed her marriage, her mental health, her body, and her relationship with faith
• Why she now believes there are many ways to become a mother, even if pregnancy is not one of them

Cait also opens up about the loneliness of infertility, the friendships that faded when the topic became too heavy, and the community of women who helped her feel less alone. Her story is a reminder that period pain is not "just a period," infertility is not something you can simply will away, and sometimes the bravest thing you can do is stop fighting the wrong battle and choose a different path.If you or someone you love is navigating infertility, endometriosis, or the emotional fallout of trying to become a parent, this episode will feel painfully real and deeply validating. It is for anyone who needs honesty, solidarity, and a reminder that even after loss, hope can still look like a future you never expected.

Postpartum anxiety, OCD, and psychosis are not the same thing - and confusing them can cost mothers everything. Lauren sits down with Alex, a former NICU respiratory therapist and mother of three, for a deeply personal, urgent conversation about the invisible mental health crisis so many women are terrified to name.What makes this episode hit hard is Alex’s own story. She opens up about the intrusive thoughts that began during pregnancy, the silent spiral that followed each baby, and the moment she realized her fear was bigger than "new mom nerves." From compulsive mental checking to the constant search for certainty, she breaks down what postpartum OCD actually feels like and why it can be so misunderstood. You’ll discover:

• How postpartum OCD differs from normal intrusive thoughts
• Why anxiety, depression, and psychosis are often conflated
• What "ego-dystonic" thoughts actually mean in real life
• How exposure response prevention helped Alex regain control
• Why medication fear can keep struggling moms from getting help
• The major red flags that separate postpartum psychosis from OCD

Lauren and Alex also tackle the Lindsay Clancy case carefully and thoughtfully, using it as a lens to explain the dangerous gaps in public understanding, postpartum care, and mental health support. They unpack why some women are dismissed, why treatment often comes too late, and why "the postpartum period" does not magically end at six weeks.If you’re a new mom, love a new mom, work with mothers, or have ever wondered whether what you’re feeling is "normal," this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and a much-needed reality check. Essential listening if you need language for the thoughts you’ve been afraid to say out loud.

Social media makes child development look like a checklist. It is not. Pediatric physical therapist Charlene breaks down what parents should actually watch for, when a milestone delay is worth a closer look, and why tiny wins can matter more than the big headline moments. Host Lauren opens up about Thomas's journey and what it has been like learning to celebrate progress in a completely different way. Charlene, Thomas's pediatric physical therapist, brings 24 years of experience to a conversation that is equal parts practical, reassuring, and eye-opening for any parent wondering if their child is on the "right" timeline. You'll discover:

• Why milestones are ranges, not deadlines
• What red flags matter more than comparing your child to someone else's
• How early intervention works in South Carolina and why home-based therapy can be so effective
• What "container baby syndrome" is and how common baby gear can unintentionally limit development
• Easy at-home ways to build strength using items you already have, from painter's tape to laundry baskets
• Why crawling, tummy time, and play-based movement still matter even when a child seems to "skip" a step

Charlene also explains the difference between a child who is simply delayed and a medically complex child who needs a wider support team. She shares how therapy changes when a child has a trach, g-tube, oxygen, or other medical needs, and why flexibility, trust, and reading a child's cues are everything.This episode is a must-listen for parents of babies and toddlers, especially anyone feeling pressure from milestone charts, mom groups, or comparison culture. If you need permission to slow down, ask for help, and stop measuring your child against everyone else's highlight reel, this conversation will feel like a deep breath.Perfect for moms, dads, and caregivers who want to support development without turning every day into a stress test. Listen for encouragement, practical tools, and a powerful reminder that every little step forward counts.

Marleigh, an athletic trainer and a mother of a lively three-year-old, shares her intimate journey through motherhood intertwined with her lifelong battle with epilepsy. From the chaos of labor to the tender messiness of toddlerhood, she reveals how her past health battles shape her approach to parenting. Discover how her experience with seizures, the emotional weight of hospital stays, and the resilience needed to endure them have transformed her outlook and motherhood style.In this episode, you’ll uncover:

• The surprising ways epilepsy intersects with pregnancy and motherhood, including her experience with medication and seizure management during pregnancy.
• The emotional and physical realities of caring for a child with seizures, including how Marley’s training becomes her superpower in emergency situations.
• The importance of building a strong community, including the value of connecting with first responders and medical professionals before crises happen.
• Honest reflections on postpartum anxiety, the struggles of losing independence through temporary license loss, and the ongoing journey of mental health.
• The humor, love, and chaos that define everyday life—like Maggie’s unpredictable tantrums, her tendency to escape through the doggy door, and her hilarious screamouts of “Rubble on the double.”

Marley’s story is an emotional rollercoaster that highlights not just the resilience of motherhood but also the courage it takes to face health challenges head-on. If you're navigating postpartum struggles, caring for a child with special needs, or just need reassurance that you’re not alone in the chaos, this episode will inspire, educate, and maybe even make you laugh out loud. Perfect for parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in the real side of motherhood—where love and fight-or-flight instincts collide. Tune in to hear about the strength it takes to keep going, the importance of community, and how you can prepare for life’s unexpected emergencies.

Remember, no matter how tough it gets, you’re not alone. Hit play and discover what it really takes to thrive in the chaos.

Your motherhood journey—and your life—are worth fighting for.

Most new parents imagine motherhood as a fairytale—beautiful, simple, perfect. But what if your journey is far more complex, filled with unexpected challenges like ADHD, blended families, and court battles? In this candid episode, Kelsea shares her raw, honest experience navigating motherhood as a single mom, step-mom, and a woman constantly learning to pivot through life's chaos. Discover how she handles the roller coaster of raising teenage girls, managing a challenging relationship with her child's father, and balancing her own mental health. We break down real conversations about ADHD medication and med breaks, blending families without losing yourself, and the power of showing up for your kids—even when life isn't straightforward. Kelsea reveals the emotional toll of court battles, the importance of presence over perfection, and the lessons she's learned about resilience and love. You'll uncover practical insights on fostering strong sibling bonds when they're not full biological siblings, navigating the emotional terrain of court-mandated visits, and recognizing the signs of anxiety and depression in children. More importantly, she explains why being fully present and showing up every day—no matter what—builds the foundation for a legacy of love, strength, and authenticity.This episode is perfect for single moms, step-parents, or anyone feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of motherhood. If you're craving honest stories mixed with humor and hope, you'll leave inspired to embrace your imperfect journey and cherish every moment with your kids. Because in the end, the most important thing you can give them is your genuine presence and love, no matter how messy life gets. Join us for an empowering conversation about the real ups and downs of motherhood—because your story deserves to be told, and your kids deserve a parent who shows up, unfiltered. Don’t miss this heartfelt episode that reminds us all: Motherhood isn’t perfect, but it’s always worth it.

Discover why every single parenting journey is unique—and why embracing that diversity can bring peace and empowerment to your family. Whether you're just starting out or deep into the challenges, this episode reminds you: your love, patience, and advocacy are what truly matter.Rachel shares her personal story navigating parenting a child with autism, highlighting the importance of patience, non-comparison, and community support. You'll learn how to find reassurance in the chaos and discover resources like Autism Society of America and Autism Speaks that can guide families at every stage. Her heartfelt insights reveal that there’s no “right” timeline or one-size-fits-all approach to parenting, only your authentic love and advocacy.We break down key strategies for embracing your child's unique developmental path, managing expectations, and finding joy in the everyday moments. You'll discover practical advice for connecting with local support groups, talking with healthcare professionals, and cultivating your own grace as a parent. Rachel's story is a powerful reminder that you’re never alone—every challenge comes with lessons, victories, and hope.This episode is essential listening for parents at any stage of their autism journey—whether you're seeking reassurance, community, or new perspectives. By the end, you'll feel inspired to trust your instincts, celebrate your child's progress, and carry grace into every step.Join us for a nurturing conversation that celebrates diversity in parenting and reminds every parent: your love makes all the difference. Perfect for parents, caregivers, and anyone supporting a child with special needs. Press play and remember, you are never alone on this beautiful journey.