Parenting Unplugged

Welcome to The Newborn Trenches—that foggy, love-soaked, and utterly exhausting place new parents find themselves in during the fourth trimester.

In this first episode of a three part series, we open up about the real postpartum experience—the part that rarely makes it into baby books. From relentless sleep deprivation to feeding frustrations and the emotional toll of recovery, we’re talking about it all. Honestly. Tenderly. Without filters.

You’ll hear:

• What the “fourth trimester” really means—and why it matters
• How sleep deprivation can shake your core (and how to cope)
• The highs, lows, and in-betweens of feeding—no matter your path
• Navigating your own healing while showing up for someone tiny and new

If you’re in it, have been through it, or are preparing for it—this episode is your reminder that you're not broken, you're just in the trenches. And one day, you'll climb out stronger than you ever imagined.

💛 This one’s for the tired hearts, the teary eyes, and the hands that keep holding on.

The moment has arrived—you’re bringing your baby home! In this episode, we dive into the emotional rollercoaster of those first few days and weeks as new parents.

From adjusting to sleepless nights to navigating feeding, bonding, and unexpected challenges, we share real stories, practical tips, and heartfelt advice to help make the transition smoother.

Whether you're preparing for your baby's arrival or reminiscing about your own experience, this episode is packed with reassurance and relatable moments.

In this second part of our two part series we dive into this heartfelt episode where we sit down with Monica as she shares her personal breastfeeding journey—the challenges, the triumphs, and the unexpected lessons along the way.

From discovering tongue ties and navigating latching difficulties to finding support in her community, Monica opens up about the emotional and physical aspects of her experience.

Breastfeeding is both a magical and challenging time of a mummas life, but with the right support and help it can really be a beautiful journey!

Whether you're a new parent, expecting, or simply curious about the realities of breastfeeding, this episode is filled with honest insights and encouragement. Tune in for a real and relatable conversation about the joys and struggles of nourishing a little one.

Monica's essentials for breastfeedinng;

Silverettes (a MUST to heal sore/cracked nipples):

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Livella-Silver-Nursing-Cups

Nipple shields (gives a better latch):

https://www.amazon.co.uk/MAM-Nipple-Shield-including-travel/dp/B00NMEWJ9Q?th=1

Haakaa manual pump (great to put on the other boob when breastfeeding):

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Haakaa-Breastpump-Lip-Phthalate-100ml

In this special 10th episode of our podcast, we share the part one of a two-part series of our breastfeeding journeys.

In part one, Elisa shares her deeply personal breastfeeding story. She opens up about the challenges of breastfeeding for an extended period, from the isolation it can bring to the judgment that often surrounds this intimate experience. Elisa explains why she made the decision to breastfeed and how it shaped her connection with her child, while also reflecting on both the tough moments and the rewarding, beautiful ones.

Elisa uses her story to celebrate the incredible strength of women who breastfeed and empowers others to feel confident in their choices. She discusses the importance of seeking professional help as a new mother, acknowledging that breastfeeding can be tough, and we cannot—and should not—do it alone. Elisa also emphasizes the critical role that a supportive partner or friend plays in this journey, underscoring how invaluable emotional and practical support can be during this time.

This episode is filled with raw honesty, encouragement, and solidarity. Elisa’s story is one of resilience, love, and community, and it offers vital advice for any mother navigating or considering breastfeeding. Stay tuned for Part 2 of our series, where we feature Monica that will be sharing her story with us all.

Some of Elisa's essentials for breastfeeding:

Elisa's favorite nipple cream:

Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter:

https://amzn.to/3Xslr0b

Engorgement relief hot/cold packs:

Lansinoh Breast Therapy Packs

https://amzn.to/3Dd2k3n

Elisa's Ride or Die Breast Pump

Lansinoh Pump

https://amzn.to/3Dd2k3n

In Bringing Baby Home, we reflect on one of the most emotional and life-changing days—bringing your baby home from the hospital. It’s a milestone that marks the beginning of an entirely new chapter in life, and we dive deep into the anticipation, excitement, and even the fears that come with it.

We start by looking back at the final weeks leading up to the birth— the emotional rollercoaster, and the hustle of setting up the nursery, buying baby essentials, and bracing for the big day. Were we ever fully ready? We dive into the difference between expectations and reality when it comes to getting ready for a baby.

Then, we talk about the big moment: leaving the hospital with your newborn. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, with a mix of excitement, nervousness, and maybe even fear. We share the surreal experience of that first car ride with baby and what it felt like to step into our home for the first time as a family.

Join us as we unpack the emotions, the surprises, and the joy of one of the most significant milestones in life—bringing your baby home.

In this episode, we dive into the raw and honest experiences of those first days after birth—both the magical and the challenging moments.

We begin by discussing the importance of hospital care, highlighting how midwives and healthcare professionals support recovery and guide new mums through those crucial first steps.

Then, we get real about mum’s first toilet break and first shower—often overlooked but significant milestones in postpartum recovery. We talk about what to expect, how to make it easier, and why these moments can feel like small victories.

We also break down post-labour self-care essentials, including peri bottles, peri sprays, ice packs, postpartum pads, and tummy wraps. Are they really necessary, or just nice to have? We share personal insights and practical advice on what works best for comfort and healing.

Finally, we reflect on the emotions of being alone with your baby for the first time—a mix of love, awe, and maybe even a little fear. We also talk about beginning the breastfeeding journey in the hospital, the first latch, and the support available for those early feeds.

Whether you’re an expecting mum, a new parent, or just curious about what happens in those first postpartum days, this episode is full of real talk, reassurance, and practical advice.

In our newest episode- Hello, Love, we invite you into the raw moment of when we meet our babies for the first time. In this episode, we reflect on this powerful, transformative moment, and the wave of emotions that floods in—love, fear, joy, and everything in between. We explore the deeper, often unspoken feelings that arise postpartum, sharing the importance of telling these stories to feel seen, heard, and supported.

We open up about the unexpected moments after labor—when your motherly instinct kicks in and you suddenly have to trust your intuition in ways you never expected. We offer advice for expectant parents on skin-to-skin bonding, breastfeeding, and navigating those first tender moments with your newborn.

We also discuss how labor and delivery shape you as a parent, and how that experience stays with you long after the hospital doors close. This episode is a safe space to share, learn, and reflect, and we invite listeners to join the conversation by sharing their own birth stories—because no one should ever feel alone in this journey.

Together, we honor the beauty, complexity, and strength of the experience of becoming a parent, and we remind each other that every story is worth sharing.

We are back with part two of our labor & delivery series!

In this episode, we dive into the details of our birth experiences—honestly reflecting on the labor process, the choices we made, and the support systems that helped us along the way. From where we chose to give birth to the reasons behind those decisions, we share our personal journeys with the hope of empowering other expectant parents.

At the heart of this episode is the message of empowerment—encouraging women to trust in their bodies, embrace the process, and believe in their ability to bring new life into the world. Whether you’re preparing for your own birth or simply want to hear diverse stories and perspectives, this conversation is a candid, uplifting look at the power of birth.

Join us as we reflect on the beauty and strength of childbirth, the choices we made, and the supportive networks that helped us feel confident and capable every step of the way.

Welcome to our Labor & Delivery Stories, a two-part series where we open up about one of life’s most transformative experiences. In Part 1, we dive into the deeply personal experience of labor and delivery, while also acknowledging the shared emotions and challenges that connect so many parents. Each birth experience is unique, but in telling our stories, we hope to offer comfort and a sense of connection to anyone preparing for or reflecting on their own birth journey.

From packing the hospital bag and attending birthing classes to handling pre-labor nerves, we reflect on how we prepared mentally and physically for the big day. We’ll talk about the importance of creating a birthing plan, knowing that flexibility is key when it comes to navigating the unpredictable nature of birth.

Join us for an honest and intimate conversation about what it means to prepare for labor, embrace the unknown, and share in the collective experience of bringing new life into the world.

The Mama Natural Week-by-Week Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth

By Genevieve Howland

https://amzn.to/3ONjkiR

Welcome back!

In this episode, we are so excited to be joined by a special guest!

Joining us is both a good friend and certified Doula who shares insights into the unique role Doulas play in the birthing process.

From providing emotional and physical support to advocating for the birthing person’s needs, we’ll explore how Doulas make a difference before, during, and after birth.

Tune in to learn how having a Doula can transform the birthing experience and what to consider when choosing one.

Whether you’re expecting, planning for the future, or just curious about birth support, this conversation offers a wealth of information and inspiration!

If you or anyone else would like to connect with Doula Annie Ortiz please find her contact informaion below;

📲 IG: annieortiz.hypnotherapy