The Whole Bundle: Nurturing parents through nourishing conversations

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Has navigating the world of parenting introduced a whole new set of challenges for you and your partner?

If so, you're not alone. Today, we dive into an insightful conversation with Rhona Berens, a professional certified coach and co-author of the book *"Fight Right for Your Baby"*. This comprehensive guide is designed to help expecting and new parents shift from conflict to connection, an essential aspect of co-parenting that is often underestimated.

Becoming a parent inevitably places stress on relationships. Rhona and her wife experienced firsthand the shock of how parenting impacted their relationship. Rhona's journey emphasized the importance of creating a "designed partnership alliance" to navigate the often tumultuous transition from being a couple to being parents.

One of the key topics discussed was the concept of fighting right versus fighting wrong. Rhona explained that fighting wrong involves unskillful, unproductive ways of disagreeing that pull couples apart. Drawing from John Gottman's research, she explains the four toxic communication styles: contempt, defensiveness, criticism, and stonewalling. 

1. Contempt: Disrespectful communication including condescension, sarcasm, and eye-rolling.

2. Defensiveness: Reacting with a chip on your shoulder, refusing to see your part in the conflict.

3. Criticism: Blaming and nagging that turns issues into personal attacks.

4. Stonewalling: Becoming uncommunicative, walking away, or avoiding the conflict entirely.

Rhona emphasized the importance of becoming aware of these behaviors and working towards changing unproductive patterns. She encourages couples to recognize the impact of their communication on their children and to make a conscious effort to model healthier interaction.

Fighting is normal. It's not about never fighting but about how you fight and, more importantly, how you repair and reconnect after a conflict. Small moments of reconnection—like affirming words, a hug, or simply holding hands—can make a significant difference in maintaining a positive relationship dynamic in front of your children. 

For parents approaching this monumental life change, Rhona’s insights and the tools in her book can serve as a valuable resource to navigate the complexities of new parenthood while maintaining a healthy, connected relationship with your partner.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 01:25 Rhona's Personal Journey to Becoming a Coach
• 04:30 The Impact of Parenting on Relationships
• 10:31 The Book: Fight Right for Your Baby
• 17:26 Understanding and Addressing Conflict in Relationships
• 35:35 Tips for New and Expecting Parents

Connect with Rhona

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/FightRightBooks/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonaberens/ 
• www.rhonaberens.com 
• www.fightrightbooks.com 
• https://rhonaberens.com/resources/ 
• https://rhonaberens.com/changing-habits/ 

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

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Are you looking for delicious, plant-based recipes that can help you recover postpartum?

In this episode, I’m joined by Chef Eduardo Justo. Eduardo brings a wealth of experience, having worked in some of the best restaurants in the world and now specializing in vegan and plant-based cuisine. Eduardo shares his journey, cooking philosophy, and two amazing recipes designed specifically for postpartum moms.

Eduardo shares the benefits of plant-based eating for recovery, as well as two nutritious recipes he created that are not only delicious but also supportive of postpartum recovery and nursing mothers. Using ingredients known as galactagogues—foods that help increase breast milk supply—he highlights the importance of these foods, emphasizing how they can aid in both recovery and milk production.

Our first recipe is a Lentil Fenugreek Stew, perfect for the fall season or any time you need a hearty, nourishing meal. The second recipe is a vibrant and nutritious Creamy Chickpea Beet Soup, packed with protein and vitamins.

Both recipes are designed to be simple and quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy postpartum moms. Remember, you can easily add your preferred protein like chicken, fish, or tofu to these dishes to suit your dietary needs. These recipes can also be made in large batches and frozen for later consumption.

Eduardo’s passion for plant-based cooking and his understanding of postpartum nutrition make these recipes a wonderful addition to any new mom’s meal rotation. 

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:55 Eduardo's Journey to Becoming a Chef
• 05:00 Eduardo's Vegan Transformation
• 06:44 The Importance of Galactagogues
• 08:59 Recipe 1: Lentil Fenugreek Stew
• 15:52 Recipe 2: Creamy Chickpea Beet Soup

Connect with Eduardo

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Vegancookingmastery/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Vegancookingmastery  
• www.chefeduardojusto.com 

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

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Are you wondering what it’s like to embark on the journey of motherhood later in life? Maybe you’re a new mother in her 40s, or thinking of having kids later on in life. In this episode, I have a profound conversation with Victoria Lauture Duncker from "New Mommy at 40." Victoria, a multifaceted artist, storyteller, and advocate, shared her inspiring journey of becoming a mother in her 40s and the incredible work she is doing to support women navigating similar paths. 

Victoria’s journey to motherhood is both unique and inspiring. She started her career in musical theater and film, influenced by the powerful voices of women in her family. Despite her vibrant career, she always wondered when her journey to motherhood would begin. Victoria humorously shares her experience, noting the industry’s tendency to value youth, which led many of her colleagues to delay motherhood. At 40, she met her husband, and within a year, they were married and expecting their first child.

Her journey wasn’t without its challenges, including struggles with fibroids, PCOS, and fertility. Victoria was determined to break societal stigmas and advocate for herself and others. Through her experiences, she created the "New Mommy at 40" podcast to empower other women, share stories, and build a supportive community.

Victoria offers advice to women considering motherhood later in life:

1. Breathe and Manage Stress: Stress never helps, so it's crucial to find ways to relax and manage anxiety about the future.

2. Stay Informed: Understand your anatomy and reproductive health.

3. Explore Options: Consider cryopreservation and other fertility options to keep future possibilities open.

4. Seek Support: Build a support system of like-minded individuals who understand your journey.

5. Advocate for Yourself: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek the care you deserve.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 04:01 Victoria's Journey to Motherhood
• 08:57 Creating the New Mommy at 40 Podcast
• 10:09 Challenges and Realities of Late Motherhood
• 12:12 Navigating Medical and Social Challenges
• 20:24 Insights and Advice for Aspiring Older Mothers
• 40:45 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

Connect with Victoria

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newmommyat40/ 
• Facebook: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtxX63UGUYNExwfk9GY9Kug 
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtxX63UGUYNExwfk9GY9Kug
• Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/new-mommy-at-40 
• www.newmommyat40.com 

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

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Have you ever faced a medical diagnosis that changed the course of your life?

Today, we delve into the heartfelt journey of Steph, a woman who has battled endometriosis and infertility, and her ultimate triumph in becoming a mother. This is a compelling story of resilience, emotional strength, and the tireless pursuit of a family.

Steph's journey began at the age of 30 when she first received her diagnosis of endometriosis. Despite having a family history of painful periods, it wasn't until she experienced excruciating abdominal pain and was diagnosed with a cyst that she began to truly understand her condition. 

Their surrogacy journey brought them to Los Angeles, where they underwent further IVF treatments to harvest and inseminate Steph's eggs, creating embryos ready for transfer. After an initial setback with their first surrogate, they met a wonderful woman in North Carolina who successfully carried their daughter.

Throughout this period, the emotional toll was immense. Steph grappled with grief, anger, and anxiety. Her anxiety hit peak levels during the surrogacy process, to the point where she relied on Pablo (her husband) to manage the logistics and updates. Despite the emotional upheaval, the couple's perseverance paid off when they finally welcomed Alma into their lives.

From her journey, Steph offers invaluable advice for those grappling with endometriosis and infertility. She emphasizes the importance of not losing hope and managing the disease through diet, acupuncture, and physiotherapy to reduce inflammation. Connecting with others facing similar challenges and staying informed about the condition can make a significant difference.

Today, five years after their successful surrogacy journey, Steph continues to manage her endometriosis through a disciplined lifestyle, including dietary changes and regular acupuncture. Despite the challenges, she feels good and is grateful for the journey that brought her to motherhood.

Steph's story is a testament to enduring hope, the power of medical intervention, and the unyielding desire to create a family, no matter the obstacles. Her experience offers a beacon of hope to many struggling with similar issues, showing that with persistence and the right support, one can navigate through the darkest tunnels to find light.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:12 Steph's Diagnosis and Early Symptoms
• 02:43 The Impact of Oral Contraceptives
• 03:24 Surgical Interventions and Challenges
• 07:44 IVF Journey and Miscarriages
• 11:42 Decision for Surrogacy
• 14:48 Surrogacy Process and Success
• 23:09 Managing Endometriosis and Final Thoughts

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

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If you’re here, you have likely felt overwhelmed by the challenges of new motherhood, and deservedly so. While it’s a beautiful time, it can be an equally challenging one for many new parents. 

In this episode, we welcome Kathleena Nair from White Feather Coaching. Kathleena is a transformational coach specializing in helping women change their mindset, overcome limiting beliefs, and crush self-sabotage. Her coaching style is gentle, empathetic, and supportive, focusing on helping women see their unlimited potential, break barriers, and achieve goals they once thought impossible.

During our chat, Kathleena shared insights into how she uses NLP and hypnotherapy in her coaching practice, particularly for postpartum moms. She explained how these techniques can help women break free from negative thought patterns and self-doubt. Kathleena also emphasized the importance of having a support system and preparing mentally for the postpartum period.

An essential topic we discussed was the often-overlooked "fourth trimester." Kathleena advocates for new mothers to prepare mentally for this period and to give themselves grace and patience during this transitional phase. The unpredictability and demands of motherhood require adaptability and self-compassion.

Finally, Kathleena explained how NLP works by examining our thoughts and emotions to influence our behavior positively. This involves creating positive associations and challenging negative thinking patterns. Consistent practice can lead to profound changes, helping women regain control over their thoughts and emotions.

One of Kathleena’s key pieces of advice is practicing gratitude. Even on the toughest days, listing a few things you're grateful for can shift your energy and perspective. Gratitude helps counteract fear and anxiety, fostering a positive mindset.

If you are feeling overwhelmed or need support, Kathleena from White Feather Coaching offers valuable resources and coaching. Remember, it's okay to reach out and ask for help. You are not alone in this journey.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 03:22 Kathleena's Personal Journey
• 05:56 Challenges of Motherhood
• 08:48 The Fourth Trimester
• 12:46 Understanding Limiting Beliefs
• 14:17 Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP)
• 15:34 Changing Negative Thoughts
• 19:30 The Power of Coaching
• 22:28 Understanding and Managing Fear
• 23:57 Identity Crisis in Motherhood
• 24:42 Mindset Shifts During Postpartum
• 25:43 Support for New Fathers
• 27:19 Creating a Postpartum Plan
• 29:18 Hypnotherapy and NLP for Emotional Healing
• 37:10 The Power of Gratitude

Resources In This Episode:

1. Free Self-Care Workbook to help you shift the focus back to your own needs, dreams, and desires: https://whitefeathercoaching.systeme.io/workbook 
   
   
   
2. Book a FREE strategy call with Kathleena to help you find clarity and confidence to achieve your big goals here --> https://calendly.com/whitefeathercoaching/free-coaching-session 

Connect with Kathleena

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitefeathercoaching/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kathnair/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleena-kaur-nair-7896a264/

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/

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Have you ever wondered why some new mothers struggle with breastfeeding, while others seem to transition seamlessly into bottle feeding?

In today's episode, I’m joined by Dr. Courtney Livaudais, an occupational therapist and lactation consultant. Courtney shares her unique insights and experiences, offering a holistic approach to support new mothers in their feeding journey. 

Courtney shares her personal struggles with breastfeeding her first child, who had a significant tongue tie. These challenges led her to seek help from a lactation consultant, which ultimately enabled her to breastfeed successfully for a year. This experience highlighted how crucial early support is in navigating the complexities of breastfeeding, from physical pain to emotional struggles.

Courtney emphasizes a holistic approach to lactation support, where the family's goals are prioritized. Rather than pushing an agenda, she asks, "How would you like to feed your baby?" This method acknowledges that breastfeeding, pumping, and bottle feeding are all valid options depending on the family's needs and circumstances.

Advice for New and Expecting Moms

1. Permission to Ask for Help: Courtney stresses the importance of asking for help early. The moment you start experiencing issues, reach out to a professional to avoid escalating problems.
2. Find Support Groups: Both professional and peer support are essential. Support groups, whether online or in-person, can provide invaluable insights and normalize the challenges you're facing.
3. No Decision is Permanent: Understand that decisions around feeding your baby are not set in stone. There's always room to adapt and change based on what works best for you and your family.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. Whether you're exclusively breastfeeding, pumping, bottle feeding, or combining methods, the right support can make all the difference. Feel free to reach out for help and support tailored to your unique needs.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:24 Courtney's Background and Journey
• 05:39 Challenges and Realities of Breastfeeding
• 14:00 Holistic Lactation Support
• 27:44 Advice for New and Expecting Moms
• 31:13 Conclusion and Resources

Connect with Courtney

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/triplemoontherapy
• www.triplemoontherapy.com 
• Free Breastfeeding Positioning Guide: https://www.triplemoontherapy.com/ 

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

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Have you ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure about how to move forward as a mom?

Welcome to a deep-dive conversation with Kelly Sinning from Fulfill and Flourish Coaching. This week, Kelly shares her inspiring journey and expert insights on overcoming the challenges of motherhood. With over a decade of experience as a licensed therapist and a mom, Kelly uniquely understands the struggles that come with trying to conceive and the postpartum phase.

Kelly shared the emotional toll of experiencing multiple miscarriages. Initially, she received empathy and questions about her well-being, but over time, the support dwindled. This left her feeling even more isolated and numb. Kelly emphasized the importance of allowing women to grieve openly without rushing their healing process.

One of the critical points Kelly addressed was the invisible nature of many mental health hardships. By the time people around her understood her struggles, she had already reached her emotional capacity. This led to feelings of loneliness and isolation, even with a robust support network. She pinpointed how friends and family often run out of empathy, contributing further to her feelings of aloneness.

Kelly's advice for new and expecting mothers is twofold:

1. Accept That You Are Both Birthing a Baby and Being Reborn as a Mother: Each child brings a new experience, and it's okay to give yourself grace during this learning process.

2. Prepare Early: Research therapists, coaches, and support systems before giving birth. Knowing who to turn to can significantly reduce the stress of seeking help when you're already overwhelmed.

She also suggests practical tips like outsourcing tasks, using paper plates to reduce dishwashing, and focusing on essential activities to keep things manageable.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 03:56 The Struggles of Recurrent Miscarriages
• 07:14 The Emotional Toll of Loss
• 13:33 Pregnancy and Postpartum Challenges
• 19:51 Recognizing and Addressing Postpartum Depression
• 25:49 Navigating Relationship Challenges Postpartum
• 26:21 Creating a Postpartum Plan
• 29:18 Recognizing and Addressing Postpartum Depression
• 30:53 The Importance of Support Systems
• 34:34 Therapy vs. Coaching for New Moms
• 40:23 Introducing the Reclaim and Restore Retreat
• 45:12 Advice for Expecting and New Moms
• 51:05 Final Thoughts and Resources

Connect with Kelly

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Kelly.the.momcoach 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birthbabysleep  
• Get 10% off her coaching services here: www.Fulfillandflourishcoaching.com 
• https://www.fulfillandflourishcoaching.com/resources 
• https://www.fulfillandflourishcoaching.com/blog 

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

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Are you considering co-sleeping but concerned about the potential risks and stigma associated with it?

In this episode, we get into the often controversial topic of co-sleeping with expert Ashley Cooley of Birth Baby Sleep. Together, we aim to provide comprehensive and evidence-based information to help parents make informed decisions, all while challenging the taboo surrounding this parenting choice.

Conversations about co-sleeping are often swept under the rug due to its taboo nature, but many parents end up co-sleeping out of sheer exhaustion. Our goal is to disseminate valuable information, ensuring safer spaces for both parents and babies if they choose this route.

We discuss recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Canadian Pediatric Society (CPS), both of which advocate for infants to sleep on their backs on a firm mattress in their own environment. Ashley and I emphasize that while these organizations strongly discourage bed-sharing, reality often diverges from these guidelines. Many parents, especially breastfeeding mothers, fall asleep with their babies, sometimes in unsafe conditions. We also talk about some practical tips to make it safer.

Ashley Cooley’s insights offer a balanced, non-judgmental perspective on the nuances of co-sleeping. The goal of this episode is not to promote or dissuade parents from co-sleeping but to provide them with the tools and knowledge to make informed choices and create the safest sleep environment possible.

We hope this conversation removes some of the stigma and shame parents might feel about co-sleeping. Remember, parenting is a journey filled with diverse experiences, and informed decisions can make this journey a bit smoother.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 06:20 Ashley Cooley's Journey into Sleep Consulting
• 10:37 Co-Sleeping Recommendations and Realities
• 16:08 Creating a Safe Co-Sleeping Environment
• 19:37 Practical Tips for Safe Co-Sleeping
• 24:33 Preventing Gaps Between Mattress and Wall
• 25:09 Risks of Co-Sleeping with Preterm Babies
• 28:55 Addressing Shame and Embarrassment
• 29:23 Clarifying Co-Sleeping Misconceptions
• 33:48 Smoking and Co-Sleeping Risks
• 36:47 Importance of Back Sleeping
• 40:09 Final Thoughts and Advice for New Parents

Connect with Ashley

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birth_baby_sleep
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/birthbabysleep  
• www.birthbabysleep.ca 
• Bringing Up Baby Podcast: https://bringingupbaby.buzzsprout.com/ 
• Perinatal Support Network: https://birth-baby-sleep.mn.co/share/Jo2rICwGd4Gm1i4X?utm_source=manual   

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

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Are you a new dad feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn for support?

Today, we’re diving into the inspiring story of Tyler Kort and his creation, Fathercy, a business and social media platform designed to support dads. Tyler's initiative aims to encourage, equip, and educate fathers as they navigate the complex journey of parenting.

Tyler’s journey into fatherhood began with his daughter and is now expanding with a soon-to-arrive son. His experiences led him to create Fathercy, a resource that offers valuable tools and a supportive community for dads everywhere.

Tyler shared the poignant moment when his wife’s birth plan changed unexpectedly due to his daughter being in a breech position, necessitating a C-section. This sudden twist pushed Tyler into a more active role in the birthing process, from undergoing the excitement of labor to managing the realities of a C-section recovery. He emphasized the importance of having a doula for support, not just for his wife but also for himself as he navigated these unfamiliar waters.

Postpartum challenges are often discussed concerning mothers, but Tyler opened up about his own struggles as a new dad. He discussed the emotional toll of feeling overwhelmed and questioning his capabilities. Initially, Tyler, like many fathers, chose to suffer in silence rather than burden his already recovering wife. 

Are you a dad in need of support and community? Visit Fathercy for tools, inspiration, and to connect with a community of fathers undergoing the same journey.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 05:24 The Birth Experience: Challenges and Emotions
• 08:02 Postpartum Realities and Support
• 13:40 The Emotional Struggles of New Dads
• 17:29 Redefining Good Parenting
• 21:58 The Father C Challenge: 28 Days to Recenter
• 23:27 The Benefits of Cold Showers and Mental Fortitude
• 28:27 Words of Wisdom for Expecting and New Dads
• 32:55 Encouraging, Equipping, and Educating Fathers

Connect with Tyler

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fathercy_ 
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@fathercy_ 
• www.fathercy.com 
• https://amzn.to/3y0eHN6 

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

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Have you ever wondered what it truly takes to undergo IVF, not just physically but mentally and emotionally?*

Welcome to part two of Vanessa Nasrallah's IVF journey. While Vanessa had previously shared the physical challenges of IVF in last week’s episode, this episode delves deeper into the emotional and psychological toll of the process. 

In our heartfelt conversation, Vanessa discusses the unseen and often unspoken emotional load of IVF, the differences between her two experiences, and how she and her husband, Peter, navigated through these trials.

Reflecting on her experiences, Vanessa emphasizes that her journey through IVF and early motherhood was not just about the physical aspects but also about dealing with unresolved trauma and grief. The conversation underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing mental health issues along the way.

Vanessa's story is a testament to the power of vulnerability, resilience, and seeking help. It's a reminder that while the road of IVF and parenthood can be filled with challenges, sharing our journeys can make those paths a bit easier to navigate.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:19 The Emotional Aftermath of IVF and Bringing Baby Home
• 03:26 Vanessa's Personal Mental Health Journey
• 06:21 Struggles with Postpartum Anxiety and Seeking Help
• 12:24 The Importance of Therapy and Support
• 18:40 Reflecting on Trauma and the Journey Ahead
• 21:42 Seeking Therapy for Infertility
• 23:53 Deciding to Have Another Baby
• 25:37 Navigating the Second IVF Journey
• 27:04 The Emotional Rollercoaster of IVF
• 33:58 Words of Wisdom for IVF Couples

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/