The MamasteFit Podcast

Gina sits down with Tiffany Belanger, founder of CoSleepy, to discuss how parents can safely bed share with their babies. They cover what bed sharing is and the stigmas surrounding it. Key safety tips are shared, including ensuring a sober and non-smoking environment, maintaining a firm and clutter-free mattress, and using the cuddle curl position. The episode also explores the benefits of bed sharing, such as improved sleep for both mom and baby and enhanced attachment. Tiffany provides practical advice and resources on setting up a safe sleep space and addresses common concerns about bed sharing and intimacy. As always listeners are encouraged to explore the options that work best for their families and are provided with numerous free resources to support their bed sharing journey if that is what they choose! 

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

01:31 Meet Tiffany from CoSleepy

02:00 Personal Bed Sharing Experiences

08:56 Safety Tips for Bed Sharing

15:19 Benefits of Bed Sharing

30:59 Alternative Co-Sleeping Arrangements

34:38 Common Concerns and Solutions

43:44 Conclusion and Resources

More About Tiffany & Resources:

Bedsharing Beginner's Guide: https://courses.cosleepy.com/courses/bedshare-irl

Tiffany Belanger attended UCLA and adventured in the film and television industry prior to parenthood. She was shocked at how difficult it was to find reliable information about safe cosleeping when her newborn would not sleep in his bassinet.

After two years of research and real-life trial and error, she founded cosleepy.com to help other parents keep their babies safe in their beds.

Tiffany’s work resonated with parents across the world, and it didn’t take long for her @cosleepyInstagram page to grow by the tens of thousands and become the largest community of cosleeping parents on the web.

She is a frequent guest on podcasts and blogs, and has been interviewed by the media several times as a representative for the educated, millennial parent who’s decided to go against the standard advice.

Her work has been referenced in several articles discussing the controversy of cosleeping, most notably New York Magazine's viral article Are We All Secretly Co-sleeping?

Tiffany cosleeps with her husband and two little boys in northern California.

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this Birth Story Friday, Jess shares her empowering experience deciding on and undergoing a scheduled C-section for her second baby. Jess's shares her journey of choosing a C-section over a VBAC, feeling empowered to make an informed choice based on her own personal risks. The episode explores Jess's preparation during pregnancy, including taking the MamasteFit strength course and selecting a supportive OB in her new city. Jess shares insights on listening to one's gut, navigating external pressures, and making informed decisions for birth. Additionally, Gina and Roxanne offer practical advice on personalizing a C-section birth and emphasize the importance of contingency plans. The episode also dives into postpartum recovery, with Jess detailing her faster and more prepared recovery process this time around. 

00:00 Introduction to Birth Story Friday

01:42 Meet Jess: Deciding Between VBAC and Scheduled C-Section

01:56 Pregnancy Preparation and Choosing a Provider

04:34 Deciding on a Repeat C-Section

07:37 End of Pregnancy and Unexpected Labor

08:59 Scheduled C-Section Experience

14:31 Postpartum Recovery and Reflections

18:23 Advice for Choosing Between VBAC and C-Section

24:22 Personalizing Your C-Section Experience

33:45 Planning for Contingencies in Birth

35:38 Conclusion and Resources

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

Gina (first born) and Roxanne (second born) speak with Dr. Bob Hurst about the impact our birth order and the birth orders of our children have on our lives. Dr. Hurst, an orthodontist with over 50 years of experience, shares his insights on how birth order influences individual behavior, sibling relationships, and how parents can better understand and support their children. The episode also delves into 'double birth orders' and their significance, as well as practical advice for preparing children for new siblings based on their birth order. The discussion covers tips for things to remember when introducing a new sibling to the family dynamic, and even covers birth order matches for marriage that are sure to stand the test of time! 

More about Dr. Bob:

Dr. Robert V.V. Hurst is a Harvard graduate and an experienced orthodontist with over 50 years in the field. Throughout his career, he has treated thousands of patients, observing firsthand how birth order and behavior patterns shape personal development and family dynamics. His extensive research challenges conventional birth order theories by introducing the concept of “Double Birth Order,” offering deeper insights into relationships and parenting. With a passion for understanding human behavior, Dr. Hurst combines his academic background with decades of practical experience to shed light on the complexities of familial roles and individual growth. He has shared his observations in his book LifesFingeprint: How Birth Order Affects Your Path Throughout Life.

00:00 Introduction to Birth Order and Personality

00:44 Meet the Hosts and Guest

01:35 Dr. Bob's Insights on Birth Order

03:14 Understanding Double Birth Orders

05:25 Sibling Dynamics and Rivalries

07:24 Birth Order in Larger Families

13:50 Blended Families and Birth Order

22:10 Practical Tips for Parents

25:48 Historical Context of Birth Order Theory

26:51 Sponsor Break: Needed Nutrition

32:31 Understanding Different Perspectives

33:02 Roles in Business and Family

34:20 The Dynamics of Twins and Multiples

37:00 Preparing Children for New Siblings

43:38 Parenting Based on Birth Order

46:35 Love and Birth Order

49:31 Complex Family Structures

53:48 Montessori and Birth Order

57:29 Final Thoughts and Resources

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina and Roxanne explore the topic of pain relief during labor, focusing on epidurals. They explain what an epidural is, its benefits, potential concerns, and debunks a few myths. They discuss the steps involved before, during, and after the epidural procedure, how to prepare for it, and how to manage labor and pushing with an epidural. The episode provides practical tips on positioning, movement, and pushing techniques for a more effective and comfortable birthing experience with an epidural!

00:00 Introduction to Pain Relief Options

01:05 Benefits and Considerations of Epidurals

02:31 Understanding Epidurals: What to Expect

07:28 Questions to Ask About Epidurals

17:43 Epidural Administration Process

21:14 Sponsor Break: Needed Nutrition

22:44 Epidural Placement and Experience

27:37 Monitoring and Adjusting Epidural Effects

28:47 Foley Catheter and Epidural Side Effects

30:51 Epidural and C-Section Concerns

32:28 Tools for Movement with an Epidural

36:54 Pushing with an Epidural

46:01 Advocating for Your Preferred Pushing Position

52:49 Recap and Final Thoughts on Epidurals

55:27 Additional Resources and Sponsorship

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of Birth Story Friday, Roxanne is joined by Melissa, who shares her transformative and intense home birth experience. After discovering a previous procedure left considerable cervical scar tissue that was delaying her labor at 41 weeks, Melissa and her midwives devise a plan to break up the scar tissue. Despite initial delays, Melissa's active labor starts rapidly once her water breaks, leading to a surprisingly swift progression. With supportive midwives, a dedicated doula, and her husband, Melissa successfully delivers her baby at home. This episode emphasizes the importance of trusting and working closely with knowledgeable care providers and offers insights for those with similar cervical procedures in their medical history.

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

01:27 Meet Melissa: Preparing for Pregnancy and Childbirth

03:58 Choosing Home Birth: Melissa's Decision

06:57 Facing Challenges: Scar Tissue and Labor Induction

12:30 Active Labor and Delivery

26:32 Postpartum Reflections and Advice

30:36 Conclusion and Resources

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, and Roxanne, a labor and delivery nurse and student midwife, discuss the essentials of an unmedicated birth, including what it is, why someone might choose it, and how to prepare for it. They delve into mental and physical preparation, emphasize the importance of continuous labor support, and share their personal experiences and professional expertise. The episode also covers the significance of choosing the right birth location and medical team, and highlights the benefits of fitness and childbirth education in achieving an empowered and positive birth experience.

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

01:10 Understanding Unmedicated Birth

02:08 Personal Experiences and Definitions

03:50 Mental Preparation for Unmedicated Birth

08:55 Physical Preparation and Comfort Techniques

16:17 The Role of Support During Labor

27:13 Choosing the Right Birth Environment

39:10 Conclusion and Resources

===

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne welcome Megan Aucutt, Program Director of Healthy Birthday, Inc. and creator of Count the Kicks, to discuss the critical role of fetal kick counts in reducing preventable stillbirths. Megan explains why starting kick counts at 28 weeks is essential, debunks common myths about fetal movements, and highlights the benefits of using the free Count the Kicks app for tracking movements. The conversation also covers how kick counts can alleviate anxiety, aid in bonding with the baby, and why it's crucial to trust maternal instincts and seek medical advice when in doubt about fetal movements.

About Megan:

Megan Aucutt is the Program Director with Healthy Birth Day, Inc. – the non-profit that created the evidence-based Count the Kicks stillbirth prevention program. Megan is a University of Northern Iowa graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in History and an emphasis in Global Health. She has over 15 years of experience with nonprofits and governmental work, focusing on grant writing and reviewing, coalition building, and educational program development.

Her true passion is maternal and child health. As Program Director, Megan oversees the organization’s research and programmatic outreach. She also manages the free Count the Kicks app and works closely with the medical community on system and policy changes.

Megan believes that knowledge truly is power. She used the Count the Kicks App during her pregnancies and has three healthy and rambunctious children. She is proud to be part of such an important organization with a powerful mission of saving babies.

Check out Megan’s website and download the Count the Kicks app here: https://countthekicks.org/download-app/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwj4K5BhDYARIsAD1Ly2pw91pSUfkimNiUTvMHHqA8JOwaY_WPfH_g_X6QNmI_HgfRdcp2xAcaAsSfEALw_wcB

Find Megan on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/countthekicksus/?hl=en

Learn More About the CDC’s Hear Her Campaign here: https://www.cdc.gov/hearher/index.html

00:00 Introduction to MamasteFit Podcast

01:20 Meet Megan Aucutt from Count the Kicks

01:51 Understanding Fetal Kick Counts

03:47 Using the Count the Kicks App

06:34 Addressing Common Concerns and Misconceptions

09:11 The Importance of Trusting Your Instincts

10:52 Preventing Stillbirths: A Medical Perspective

17:15 The Role of Medical Providers

24:58 Personal Stories and Final Thoughts

32:18 Conclusion and Resources

=====

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

Roxanne welcomes Erica, who shares her hospital water birth story and postpartum experience. Erica discusses her intentional preconception health changes, commitment to prenatal fitness, and the time she took to get educated on what to expect and how to prepare for birth. She recounts her labor journey, starting at home, transitioning to the hospital, and finding relief in a birthing pool. Erica then shares the intense emotional and physical challenges of the postpartum period, emphasizing the importance of taking time to prepare for this much longer phase of life in advance. The episode highlights the needs for better postpartum awareness and preparation! Check out our entire course dedicated to that topic here: https://mamastefit.com/education-courses/postpartum-and-newborn-care/

00:00 Introduction to Birth Story Fridays

00:02 Meet Erica: Hospital Water Birth Experience

00:12 Hosts Introduction and Podcast Overview

01:12 Erica's Pregnancy Journey and Birth Preparation

03:09 Challenges and Adjustments During Pregnancy

04:36 Choosing a Midwife and Water Birth

06:18 Early Signs of Labor and Preparation

07:44 Labor Begins: From Home to Hospital

13:17 Arrival at the Hospital and Progress

14:57 Arrival at the Labor and Delivery Room

15:27 Labor Land: The Intensity Begins

15:37 Water Birth Experience

16:28 The Final Push and Baby's Arrival

18:45 Post-Birth Challenges

21:42 Navigating Early Postpartum

22:13 Breastfeeding Struggles

24:14 Adjusting Expectations and Finding Solutions

25:02 Reflecting on the Postpartum Journey

26:54 Advice for Expecting Parents

29:41 Postpartum Preparation and Resources

31:39 Conclusion and Resources

=====

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

Gina and Roxanne sit down with pelvic floor physical therapist Hayley Kava to tackle the often-taboo subjects of hemorrhoids, constipation, anal fissures, incontinence, and pelvic organ prolapse associated with pregnancy and postpartum life. They provide valuable insights into the physiological changes that contribute to these conditions, emphasizing the importance of open dialogue and practical strategies for relief. The episode covers all you need to know about the root issues behind these discomforts, and what you can do actually about them! Let’s break the silence, end the shame, and finally talk about BUTT STUFF! 

Check out Hayley Kava’s website here: https://www.hayleykavapt.com/

00:00 Introduction to Pelvic Floor Issues

00:51 Meet Your Hosts and Guest

01:42 Breaking the Taboo: Discussing Butt Problems

05:30 Understanding Constipation During Pregnancy

06:17 Pelvic Floor Mechanics and Constipation Solutions

13:47 The Impact of Constipation on Health

20:54 Hemorrhoids: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

28:09 Sponsor Break: Needed Nutrition

28:34 Gut Health and Probiotics

29:31 Treating Anal Fissures and Hemorrhoids

32:56 Understanding Pressure Management

42:57 Addressing Incontinence Issues

54:48 Final Thoughts and Resources

=====

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/

In this heartfelt episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne share deeply personal stories of pregnancy loss in honor of Infant and Pregnancy Loss Awareness Month. Gina recounts her emotional experiences with multiple miscarriages, discussing the healing process that comes from sharing her story and breaking the stigma around pregnancy loss. Roxanne provides professional insights on early pregnancy complications and the challenges faced in emergency rooms. The episode highlights the importance of compassionate care, the role of supportive communities, and the impact of partnering with a proactive provider in the journey toward successful pregnancies. Listeners are encouraged to seek support and find solace in shared experiences while navigating the emotional rollercoaster of pregnancy loss and the hope of future pregnancies.

00:00 Introduction to the MamasteFit Podcast

00:01 Trigger Warning and Episode Overview

00:16 Meet Your Hosts: Gina and Roxanne

00:22 Empowering Your Perinatal Journey

01:05 Gina's Pregnancy Loss Stories Begin

01:58 First Pregnancy Loss: Initial Excitement and Concerns

06:55 The Heartbreaking Discovery

09:57 Navigating the Aftermath

14:36 Second Pregnancy Loss: Hope and Heartache

15:45 Emergency Room Visit and Emotional Turmoil

17:33 A Traumatic ER Experience

19:03 The Struggle for Compassionate Care

20:12 Sponsor Break: Needed Nutrition

22:47 A Compassionate Medical Provider

24:21 Discovering Thyroid Issues

26:17 Pregnancy After Loss

30:17 Navigating Anxiety and Bonding

32:58 A Healing Birth Experience

37:23 Sharing Stories and Finding Support

39:37 Conclusion and Community Resources

=====

Get Your Copy of Training for Two on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3VOTdwH

——

This podcast is sponsored by Needed, a nutrition company focused on optimal nourishment for your perinatal journey. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Use code MAMASTEPOD for 20% off your first order or three months of subscription.⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 

****Freebies*****

Early postpartum recovery course: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/early-postpartum-recovery-guide/ 

Pp sample 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/postpartum-fitness-guide/

Prenatal Sample: 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prenatal-fitness-program-guide/

Pelvic Floor 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-your-pelvic-floor-for-labor/

Birth Prep for Labor Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/prepare-for-labor-guide/

Birth Partner Guide 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-partner-guide/

Birth Plan 

https://mamastefit.com/freebies/birth-plan-guide/