Parenthood Prep

You know that feeling of finally getting your baby to fall asleep at bedtime... only to have them wake up multiple times during the night?

I know it's exhausting. And frustrating. And sometimes feels like it will never end.

But here's the thing - your baby CAN learn to sleep through the night. They just need the right tools and approach to figure it out.

In this week's episode, I'm breaking down exactly how to handle those middle-of-the-night wake-ups during sleep training.

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://happyfamilyafter.com/51

Got an older kid who thinks bedtime is optional? You're not alone. A lot of parents end up stuck in the routine of lying next to their kid until they finally drift off—or worse, dealing with a 3 AM visitor climbing into their bed.

Here's the good news: You CAN teach them to sleep on their own, and it doesn't have to come with a full-blown emotional meltdown (for them or you).

In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how to get your kid to fall asleep without you glued to their side. It's all about boundaries, and just like Jerry Seinfeld once said about car rentals, "Anyone can set a boundary. The key is to hold the boundary." By the end, you'll have the tools (and the confidence) to get your child snoozing like a pro. No more late-night negotiations, just actual, glorious sleep.

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://happyfamilyafter.com/50

Are you ready to take the plunge and sleep train your baby?

Sleep training can feel daunting, but with the right support and strategies, you can help your baby become an independent sleeper.

In this episode, I'm walking you through the bedtime process step by step, breaking down the sleep training method that actually works.

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://happyfamilyafter.com/49

So, you're having a baby—or maybe you're just morbidly curious about what actually happens when labor hits. Either way, let's talk about pain management.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by my sister, Kim Gordon, a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) who specializes in labor and delivery anesthesia. In other words, she's the person you really want to know when contractions get real.

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://happyfamilyafter.com/48

Feeling like a frazzled mess and want to parent with more peace (without becoming a full-time monk)?

In this week's episode, I'm joined by marriage and family therapist Ashby Lankford. She breaks down several practical strategies you can use in the heat of the moment to find more calm, compassion, and even humor when you're struggling with your kids.

If you're ready to feel a little less frustrated and a little more zen in your parenting, this episode is for you.

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://happyfamilyafter.com/47

Feeling overwhelmed trying to juggle it all with a baby in tow?

In this episode, I share my top tips for getting things done, even when it feels impossible. From breaking tasks into bite-sized steps to letting others help (without micromanaging!), these strategies will help you feel accomplished.

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://happyfamilyafter.com/46

Have you or someone you know had a baby in the NICU? It's an experience no parent wants to go through, but there can be some unexpected positives that come out of it.

In this episode, I talk with my good friend and coach Margaret Mason Tate about her experience when her son Hamish spent time in the NICU as a newborn. We also discuss tips for managing the emotional trauma of the NICU, both in the moment and even years later. If you're a NICU parent looking for support and perspective, this is the episode for you.

Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://happyfamilyafter.com/45

Are you constantly worrying about your baby's safety? Do you feel overwhelmed by all the guidelines and potential risks? In this episode, we'll explore some different hazards and help you understand what's truly dangerous and what's actually safer than you might think.

Join me as I share insights from my experience as a sleep consultant, working with countless families and observing their safety practices. I'll discuss the most common mistakes I see parents making, the products and situations that pose the greatest risks, and how to assess hazards more effectively.

For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://www.happyfamilyafter.com/44

Thinking about hiring overnight newborn care but not sure where to start? In this episode, I'm breaking down everything you need to know about hiring overnight support for your newborn - from finding trustworthy caregivers to understanding costs and asking the right questions during interviews.

Join me as I walk you through the essential considerations for hiring overnight newborn care, including how to structure your support schedule, what to expect regarding costs, and why the first few weeks postpartum deserve careful planning. Whether you're expecting your first baby or adding to your family, this episode will help you make informed decisions about newborn care support.

For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://www.happyfamilyafter.com/43

Have you ever wondered about the many paths to parenthood that exist today? In a world where medical technology has opened up so many possibilities, it can be hard to keep track of all the options. As someone who has always been fascinated by babies and fertility, I'm thrilled to dive into this topic with an expert. Our guest today is Justine Witzke, the founder and CEO of Aligneage Fertility, a boutique sperm bank and fertility consultancy in New York City. With nearly 20 years of experience in reproductive medicine, a master's in public health, and a PhD in translational research, Justine has found her niche in this rapidly evolving field. In this episode, we explore the wide range of assisted reproductive technologies available, from IVF and egg freezing to sperm and embryo donation. Whether you're currently navigating fertility challenges or simply curious about the latest advancements, this conversation will leave you informed and inspired. For full transcript and show notes, please visit: https://www.happyfamilyafter.com/42