The Best Birth Podcast

Helen Beagley, a nutritionalist, doula, and expert in various modalities, discusses the importance of mental and physical well-being in preparing for pregnancy and birth. She explains the concept of cognitive movement therapy and how it can help address trauma and belief systems related to birth. Helen also highlights the benefits of Mercier Therapy in optimizing pelvic organ function and creating space in the body. She emphasizes the significance of deep breathing, stress management, and self-care for new moms. Additionally, Helen shares insights on birth plans, the manifestation of trauma in the body, and the use of technology in supporting holistic health.

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Kaitlyn McEntire is a birth and motherhood photographer, videographer, and doula based in Colorado Springs. She serves families that value authenticity, abundance, and community, giving them a photography experience unlike any other. She also donates her energy in the bereavement space, providing families experiencing pregnancy and infant loss with meaningful images and support. Kaitlyn discusses her journey into photography and doula work, the impact of COVID on birth support, the balance between offering doula support and capturing moments, the importance of support for individuals birthing alone, and the work she does as a bereavement doula. She also talks about body image and the changes that come with pregnancy and postpartum, as well as the resources and tools available to cultivate a positive mindset.

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The Gifts of Imperfection Brené brown

Deb Flashenberg, a prenatal yoga instructor and birth advocate, shares her journey into the birth field and the importance of education and preparation for childbirth. She discusses how yoga and meditation can help with pain management and coping skills during labor. Deb also highlights the Spinning Babies technique and the role of community support in the perinatal period. She emphasizes the importance of evidence-based research and the changes in Lamaze childbirth education. Deb provides advice on pain techniques during labor and the need for flexibility and openness in birth plans. She recommends prenatal yoga, Spinning Babies, chiropractic work, and pelvic floor physical therapy as valuable resources for pregnant individuals.

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Transformed by Birth by Britta Bushnell, Ph.D

In this episode, Janelle Mellor, a registered nurse working in the postpartum unit, shares her personal experiences and expertise in women's health and postpartum care. She discusses her journey to becoming a nurse and her own birth stories, including a C-section and a uterine rupture. Janelle also explains the importance of postpartum checks, including monitoring blood pressure and checking for complications like hemorrhage. She provides insights into managing gestational diabetes and offers advice for new moms, such as practicing skin-to-skin contact and enjoying the bonding time with their babies.

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Morning Sickness Remedies

In this episode, Carrie Fox, a NICU nurse, shares insights and reassurance about the NICU experience. She discusses the different types of babies that are admitted to the NICU, the reasons for their admission, and the interventions and care they receive. Carrie also talks about feeding options, visiting hours, and the support resources available for parents. The episode provides valuable information for expectant parents and highlights the importance of prenatal care and being informed.

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Dr. Jennifer Finlayson-Fife, a relationship and sexuality coach, discusses intimacy during pregnancy and postpartum. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion and awareness during the transitional period of pregnancy. Dr. Finlayson-Fife advises couples to have open communication and self-regulation when physical barriers arise. She also addresses the misconception that having a baby dilutes love and highlights the need for personal growth and responsibility in relationships. Dr. Finlayson-Fife encourages women to embrace their changing bodies during pregnancy and postpartum, emphasizing the miraculous nature of the female body. She provides insights on dealing with body image issues and offers resources for couples to strengthen their relationships.

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Dr. John Schmidt, a pediatrician, discusses various topics related to raising young children. He emphasizes the importance of partnering with parents and provides insights on common concerns and questions. The conversation covers the role of a pediatrician in the birth room, delayed cord clamping, cord blood banking, jaundice in newborns, vitamin K shot, eye ointment, circumcision, lactation support, tongue ties, and feeding concerns. In this conversation, Dr. Schmidt discusses various topics related to infant feeding and development. She emphasizes the importance of allowing babies to eat when they're hungry and paying attention to their growth curve and velocity. She also provides insights into managing reflux in infants and the potential impact of altering the mother's diet while breastfeeding. Dr. Schmidt addresses common questions about newborn procedures, the vaccine schedule, and the benefits of reading to children. She encourages parents to trust their instincts and build a relationship with their pediatrician for better guidance and support.

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Carly Crowther, a flight attendant and birth educator, discusses the concept of a babymoon and provides tips for traveling during pregnancy. She emphasizes the importance of connecting with your partner and preparing emotionally for the arrival of the baby. Carly also shares her own birth experiences and highlights the benefits of an unmedicated birth. She encourages women to research and consider this option, even in a hospital setting. Carly shares her experience of giving birth in a birth center and how her second birth was very different from her first. She went into labor naturally and had to quickly adjust her plans. Despite the unexpected circumstances, Carly was able to surrender to the process and have a positive birth experience. She also provides valuable tips for traveling with babies and toddlers, including flying with lap children, checking car seats and strollers, and managing expectations. Carly emphasizes the importance of preparing mentally and physically for labor and encourages listeners to approach birth with a positive mindset.

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Dr. Marc Nelson, a chiropractor, discusses how chiropractic care can benefit pregnant women. He shares his journey into chiropractic care and how he witnessed the body's ability to heal itself given time and opportunity. Dr. Nelson emphasizes the importance of providing options and support for pregnant women experiencing back pain and other discomforts. He explains how chiropractic care can relieve physical stress and improve mental well-being during pregnancy. Dr. Nelson also discusses the role of chiropractic care in optimizing pelvic alignment for easier labor and delivery. He highlights the importance of trust in the birthing process and the need for personalized care and education.

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Stacey Green, a doula and owner of The Utah Birthplace, discusses birth support, doula work, and the benefits of birth centers. She shares her journey to opening the birth center and the importance of having a centralized location for pregnancy and postpartum resources. Stacey emphasizes the flexibility and personalized care offered at the Utah Birthplace, where women can choose their own midwife and have access to amenities like birth pools. She also highlights the role of doulas and support persons in providing comfort and empowerment during labor. The conversation touches on pain management techniques, the use of a rebozo, and the power of positive affirmations.

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