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In this deeply personal episode, our host, Naiomi Catron, RN, IBCLC, takes us behind the scenes of her recent experience working alongside midwives and healthcare professionals in Malawi, Africa.

Naiomi traveled to Malawi to share her knowledge about breastfeeding and infant feeding, but she quickly discovered that she would be learning just as much as she was teaching. From caring for premature babies with limited resources to supporting mothers facing incredible challenges, Naiomi shares the moments that stopped her in her tracks and the lessons she brought home.
Despite thousands of miles between Malawi and home, Naiomi reflects on the similarities that connect mothers and babies everywhere—the desire to nourish, protect, and care for their children.

Key Highlights:

Breastfeeding Without Electric Pumps: What happens when a premature baby is too weak to breastfeed and electric pumps aren't available? Naiomi shares what she witnessed and the resourcefulness of healthcare professionals caring for vulnerable babies.
When Access to Care Isn't Easy: Naiomi explores the realities mothers may face when something like engorgement or mastitis occurs and getting to a hospital can mean traveling for hours.
When a Mother Dies During Childbirth: Naiomi discusses one of the most heartbreaking realities she encountered in Malawi—what happens to a baby when their mother doesn't survive childbirth and how communities step in to provide care.
What We Can Learn From Malawi: Naiomi shares what she learned from a culture where breastfeeding is deeply woven into motherhood and how this experience changed the way she thinks about breastfeeding support.

Join us for this special episode as Naiomi takes us along on her journey to Malawi. This episode is more than a conversation about breastfeeding—it's an invitation to see a part of the world most of us may never experience firsthand and to meet the women who taught Naiomi just as much as she taught them.

🎧 WATCH EPISODE 53: Call the Midwife: Africa Edition on our YouTube channel!

Expecting a little one? Join our Prenatal Breastfeeding Class!

#Breastfeeding #LactationSupport #MaternalHealth #InfantHealth #Malawi #BreastfeedingSupport #Motherhood #TheBoobBusinessPodcast #MilkDiva

Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is the real-talk guide every new mom needs. Written by award-winning nurse & IBCLC Naiomi Catron, this book helps you ditch the stress, and feed with confidence. 

Grab your copy at milkdbook.com!

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. 

📺 Watch on Youtube 

Take the next step with my book!  📕Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is a must have for anyone who is 🤰🏻expecting!

• 📘 Grab a copy @ Amazon, B&N, Apple Books or MilkdBook.com

LOOKING FOR FREE BREASTFEEDING TOOLS? ->milkdiva.com/free-resources.html

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In this episode, we talk about: 

• What a Labor and Delivery Nurse does
• What an Induction is and things you may not know about it
• The Role of a Labor and Delivery Nurse in Breastfeeding 
• How to get breastfeeding off to a great start

Camilla Rowden is a Labor and Delivery Nurse who has also been named Nurse of the Year for the Central Texas Region. 

www.MilkDiva.com
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If you are pregnant, grab your FREE 11 page breastfeeding survival guide here.

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MEDICAL DISCLAIMER: 
Please know that all opinions expressed on this podcast are solely my own and not intended to substitute the advise of a medical provider. I am not a medical doctor and all information shared is intended for your general knowledge and is geared towards full term, healthy singleton infants and healthy, low-risk pregnant or postpartum women. 

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. 

📺 Watch on Youtube 

Take the next step with my book!  📕Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is a must have for anyone who is 🤰🏻expecting!

• 📘 Grab a copy @ Amazon, B&N, Apple Books or MilkdBook.com

LOOKING FOR FREE BREASTFEEDING TOOLS? ->milkdiva.com/free-resources.html

Send us Fan Mail

In this eye-opening episode, our host, Naiomi Catron, RN, IBCLC, explores everything breastfeeding parents need to understand when it comes to bottle feeding. From decoding misleading marketing on bottle packaging to tackling common concerns like nipple confusion, bottle refusal, and selecting the right bottle for your baby, Naiomi offers expert advice backed by years of experience. 

Whether you’re introducing a bottle for the first time or looking for ways to improve your baby’s feeding experience, this episode is packed with practical tips to guide you through the process. 

Key Highlights:

Nipple Flow Testing: Ever wondered if your baby is struggling with too fast or too slow nipple flow? Naiomi dives into the importance of flow rate and how it impacts your baby’s feeding.  (Tip: Watch the demo on YouTube to see it in action!)
Is Nipple Confusion Real? Naiomi breaks down the facts surrounding nipple confusion and provides insights to help you understand whether this issue is truly affecting your baby or if other factors are at play.
Avoiding Bottle Refusal: Struggling to get your baby to take a bottle? Naiomi shares practical strategies to help you avoid or overcome bottle refusal, especially during the crucial early weeks of life when feeding habits are being established.

Join us in this episode to learn the truth about baby bottles and how to navigate the overwhelming choices in the market. Naiomi’s expert guidance will help you make informed decisions for your baby’s feeding journey.

Don’t miss out on the visual demonstrations and tips available on our YouTube channel—head over there to watch now!

Our Sponsor:
Want to grow your lactation and perinatal education expertise? UC San Diego Extended Studies offers comprehensive programs designed to elevate your skills. Whether you're just starting, pursuing IBCLC, or seeking further education, their expert-led courses and clinical training are perfect for your growth. Learn more!

Expecting a little one? Join Our Prenatal Breastfeeding Class!

#Breastfeeding #BabyBottleTips #LactationSupport #ParentingAdvice #BottleFeeding #NippleConfusion #FeedingJourney #NewParents

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. 

📺 Watch on Youtube 

Take the next step with my book!  📕Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is a must have for anyone who is 🤰🏻expecting!

• 📘 Grab a copy @ Amazon, B&N, Apple Books or MilkdBook.com

LOOKING FOR FREE BREASTFEEDING TOOLS? ->milkdiva.com/free-resources.html

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We are thrilled to welcome Katrina B. Mitchell, MD, IBCLC, PMH-C,  a dedicated breast surgeon, lactation consultant, and perinatal mental health provider who runs a daily breastfeeding medicine clinic alongside her surgical practice. 

Join us in this episode as we explore the latest evidence-based recommendations for maintaining optimal breast and nipple health during breastfeeding, here are some key points during our conversation:

• Foundational Understanding: Dr. Mitchell lays the groundwork for maintaining optimal breast and nipple health during breastfeeding.
• Deciphering Triple Nipple Ointment: Explore the controversy surrounding triple nipple ointment—is it a quick fix or a potential long-term risk?
• Essential Insights on Nipple Wound Healing: Gain valuable knowledge on recognizing and addressing nipple wounds for a smoother breastfeeding journey.

………..And much much more!

More About Dr. Mitchell:
She is the creator of the Physician Guide to Breastfeeding, an evidence-based website for breastfeeding families and the communities that support them.
It can be found at physicianguidetobreastfeeding.org or katrinamitchell.org. Follow her on Instagram at @physicianguidetobreastfeeding. 

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. 

📺 Watch on Youtube 

Take the next step with my book!  📕Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is a must have for anyone who is 🤰🏻expecting!

• 📘 Grab a copy @ Amazon, B&N, Apple Books or MilkdBook.com

LOOKING FOR FREE BREASTFEEDING TOOLS? ->milkdiva.com/free-resources.html

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Ever wonder why you struggled with a low milk supply?  Wanna know if pumping all the time will ever come to an end?… Is triple feeding necessary? Are you 🤰🏽 pregnant and worried about having a low milk supply? Have you been told, “Some people just can't make enough milk and that's why we have formula….”

Have you been pumping a million times per day and still only getting a few ounces of milk?

Are you looking for answers about your milk supply?

Low milk supply can be an intensely , frustrating and triggering experience. Please take a few minutes out of your day and listen to episode 19, to learn the truths about low milk supply and how to properly support people in this situation.

Please pay it forward and share it with other parents and professionals who support breastfeeding families.

Mentioned in this episode:

https://www.instagram.com/lowsupplymom/

https://www.instagram.com/lowmilksupplyfoundation/ 

https://www.instagram.com/igtandlowmilksupply/

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. 

📺 Watch on Youtube 

Take the next step with my book!  📕Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is a must have for anyone who is 🤰🏻expecting!

• 📘 Grab a copy @ Amazon, B&N, Apple Books or MilkdBook.com

LOOKING FOR FREE BREASTFEEDING TOOLS? ->milkdiva.com/free-resources.html

Send us Fan Mail

When it comes to infant formula, a lot of questions are raised by concerned parents who are always aiming to give their babies the best nutrition available alongside breastmilk.
**This episode was recorded before the national formula recall**

In today's episode, we have the pleasure of interviewing Dr. Bridget Young, Doctor of Perinatal Nutrition and creator of  the Confidently Find the Best Baby Formula for Your Unique Angel course.

Dr. Young is a pediatric nutritionist who conducts academic research in human milk composition. She has worked with countless families working through formula tolerance issues, helping them find the perfect feeding solution for their baby.

As a mom of two boys herself, Dr. Young understands how stressful infant feeding (and all the gassy messy issues that come along with it!) can be. She is passionate about reducing some of that stress so parents can just focus on bonding with their baby.

Through her website: BabyFormulaExpert.com, she uses her expertise to educate both parents and pediatricians about the nutrition science behind infant formula with the goal of helping all parents feel empowered and confident in the feeding decisions they make for their special baby.

Find out more about her amazing work:

For Parents:  https://babyformulaexpert.teachable.com/p/confidently-find-the-best-baby-formula-for-your-unique-angel

If you suspect your baby may have food allergies, check out this awesome resource https://www.freetofeed.com/diaper

For Providers:  https://babyformulaexpert.teachable.com/p/infant-formula-updates-for-practitioners

Follow her on her social media accounts:

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BabyFormulaExpert
IG: https://www.instagram.com/babyformulanutrition/

-----> Mentioned Milk Diva's  NEWBORN FEEDING CHEATSHEET https://www.milkdiva.com/newbornfeeding

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. 

📺 Watch on Youtube 

Take the next step with my book!  📕Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is a must have for anyone who is 🤰🏻expecting!

• 📘 Grab a copy @ Amazon, B&N, Apple Books or MilkdBook.com

LOOKING FOR FREE BREASTFEEDING TOOLS? ->milkdiva.com/free-resources.html

Send us Fan Mail

In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the complex topic of cannabis use during breastfeeding. From covering the most recent research in cannabis use to addressing common concerns around cannabis, and providing insights into the potential effects on breast milk and infant health- we touch on many important topics you may have questions about! 

Because the use of cannabis within a legal realm is extremely recent, we are seeing that there is a ton of emerging research on all the ways cannabis can impact an individual’s health! At Milk Diva, we always promote education and informed decision-making for those who are breastfeeding- whether you're seeking clarity or simply curious about this controversial topic...  This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the nuanced relationship between cannabis and breastfeeding.

Listen to our expert guest, Laurel Wilson BSc, IBCLC, RLC, CLE, CLD, CCCE, PPPI as she provides valuable perspectives (gained over 30 years of experience), debunks myths, and offers practical guidance to help you navigate the intersection of cannabis use and breastfeeding!

More Resources:

1. Dr. Nice’s New book The Breastfeeding Family's Guide to Nonprescription Drugs and Everyday Products
2. Dr. Hale’s Infant Risk Center
3. LactMed @NIH https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501922/ 
4. The Cannabis Conundrum Webinar http://motherjourney.com/the-cannabis-conundrum.html

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. 

📺 Watch on Youtube 

Take the next step with my book!  📕Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is a must have for anyone who is 🤰🏻expecting!

• 📘 Grab a copy @ Amazon, B&N, Apple Books or MilkdBook.com

LOOKING FOR FREE BREASTFEEDING TOOLS? ->milkdiva.com/free-resources.html

Send us Fan Mail

Want the glow without risking your flow? We dive into the beauty and body questions breastfeeding parents ask most and bring receipts from the InfantRisk Center so you can make confident, evidence-based choices. From cosmetic fillers and microneedling to topical retinoids and modern weight loss strategies, we separate local skin treatments from systemic exposures, explain what actually reaches milk, and call out the real-world factors that matter more than hype.

Some of the Topics Covered:

• why dermal fillers stay local and don’t reach milk when injected properly
• microneedling prep, numbing creams, and safe post-care serums
• topical retinoids hierarchy from cosmetic retinol to prescriptions
• oral retinoids to avoid due to systemic exposure
• calorie needs that include the cost of making milk
• hydration truths vs sports drink myths
• gentle return to exercise and pelvic floor priorities
• why GLP-1 weight loss drugs raise supply and nutrition concerns
• realistic timelines for fat loss while protecting infant growth

Links to InfantRisk Center articles and calculators:

https://www.infantrisk.com/content/cosmetic-fillers-and-breastfeeding-what-you-need-know

https://www.infantrisk.com/content/microneedling-while-breastfeeding-what-you-need-know

https://www.infantrisk.com/content/retinoid-skincare-and-nursing-what-new-moms-should-know

https://www.infantrisk.com/content/weight-loss-lactation

Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is the real-talk guide every new mom needs. Written by award-winning nurse & IBCLC Naiomi Catron, this book helps you ditch the stress, and feed with confidence. 

Grab your copy at milkdbook.com!

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. 

📺 Watch on Youtube 

Take the next step with my book!  📕Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is a must have for anyone who is 🤰🏻expecting!

• 📘 Grab a copy @ Amazon, B&N, Apple Books or MilkdBook.com

LOOKING FOR FREE BREASTFEEDING TOOLS? ->milkdiva.com/free-resources.html

Send us Fan Mail

Childhood vaccines are one of the most heated topics of debate and today we will have an open conversation with Integrative Pediatrician and Author Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh.

Drawing from his book Between a Shot and a Hard Place, Dr. Warsh helps us unpack what’s really missing from the public conversation, like safety research gaps, pharmaceutical influence, informed consent, and how to advocate for your child without fear or shame.

Whether you're a new parent, healthcare provider, or just vaccine-curious, this episode is a must-listen. You'll leave empowered with facts, not fear.

🎯 Topics include:

• How vaccines are tested (or not)
• What doctors don’t learn about vaccines in med school
• Are they truly ‘safe and effective’?
• Autism and vaccines
• What Informed Consent Should Really Look Like
• Solutions That Make Sense

🔗 www.theshotbook.com
📚 Between a Shot and a Hard Place — available now
📱 Follow Dr. Warsh on Instagram: @drjoelgator

Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is the real-talk guide every new mom needs. Written by award-winning nurse & IBCLC Naiomi Catron, this book helps you ditch the stress, and feed with confidence. 

Grab your copy at milkdbook.com!

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. 

📺 Watch on Youtube 

Take the next step with my book!  📕Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is a must have for anyone who is 🤰🏻expecting!

• 📘 Grab a copy @ Amazon, B&N, Apple Books or MilkdBook.com

LOOKING FOR FREE BREASTFEEDING TOOLS? ->milkdiva.com/free-resources.html

Send us Fan Mail

A new trend is making the rounds on TikTok: moms aiming to pump or breastfeed intensively for 6 months to create a stash big enough to feed their baby for an entire year. Sounds efficient, right? But what really happens when you try it?

In this milestone 50th episode, Naiomi teams up with Katie Tims IBCLC,  for an unfiltered look at the promises, pitfalls, and everything in between. From how much milk babies actually need, to the realities of oversupply, freezer storage surprises, and what breastfeeding really feels like in the second half of the year—this conversation is eye-opening.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode

• Why the “6-month stash” plan is gaining popularity
• The truth about daily milk volumes and whether they keep increasing
• Oversupply: blessing, curse… or both?
• What parents often don’t anticipate about hormones, nutrition, and breast health
• The freezer stash surprise no one talks about (hint: taste changes!)
• Why many moms find breastfeeding easier—not harder—after 6 months
• A week-by-week approach that may serve families better long-term

Key Takeaway
Is the 6-month pumping plan a genius shortcut or a recipe for unnecessary stress? You’ll have to listen to find out.

Resources Mentioned

• Naiomi’s book: Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding
• Episode 21: Breast Pain: Don’t Suffer in Silence
• Episode 42: Hormones, Thyroid, and Nutrient Deficiencies

This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute providing medical advice. 

📺 Watch on Youtube 

Take the next step with my book!  📕Milk’D: Finding Your Flow in the First Weeks of Breastfeeding is a must have for anyone who is 🤰🏻expecting!

• 📘 Grab a copy @ Amazon, B&N, Apple Books or MilkdBook.com

LOOKING FOR FREE BREASTFEEDING TOOLS? ->milkdiva.com/free-resources.html