Fourth Trimester: The First Months and Beyond | Parenting | Newborn Baby | Postpartum | Doula (Sarah Roselinda Trott)

In a word, Ann Jonas is resilient. She incorporates her own sense of spirituality into her coaching work, having experienced the sudden loss of her parents (her father killed her mother and died himself shortly thereafter in jail) and subsequently experienced the loss of her partner when her daughter was only two years old. One of Ann's takeaways from her journey thus far is that "life happens for you, not to you." She uses the metaphor of a car as the way we can look at life. There's a huge front windshield so we can look ahead and look around us. Listen to Ann share how to become the best version of yourself on Episode 24 of the Fourth Trimester Podcast.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

How does eating while pregnant factor into baby's palate?

What is the relationship between milk supply and foods?

Which foods work well for first solids to try with your 4-6 month old?

What nutritious foods are helpful for a recovering new mom?

Listen to the show to find out the answers to these questions and more.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Ali Starling joins us to talk about the significant and often under-discussed topic of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMAD). Ali Starling is an experienced midwife and academic from the University of California San Francisco. We talk about her passions: midwifery, mental health, and the intersection between the two. 

Our discussion thoroughly explores how new parents can navigate the challenging psychological landscape following childbirth. Listen to learn more about: 

• the nature of PMADs
• actions to take for early preparation and social support
• practical advice on both medical and non-medical treatment options
• the many (free) resources available

Full show notes:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Resources mentioned:

MGH Center for Women's Mental Health | Mother to Baby Factsheets (Check if drugs are okay to use while pregnant or breastfeeding) | reprotox.org | National Library of Medicine | National Curriculum in Reproductive Psychiatry Training | Postpartum Support International | LactMed Database | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan

"Shortly after the birth of my daughter, I spent 10 days locked in the psych ward of the hospital after my postpartum depression and psychosis made me suicidal. In my altered psychotic state, I thought my house was bugged and the police were coming to arrest me for a crime for which I was wrongly accused. I thought the only way out of my crisis was to kill myself, so I told my mom and husband that I was going to go jump off the Golden Gate Bridge."

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Here's a Birth Plan Template you can download and customize for your own use in hospital or for a home birth. It is 1,000 times easier to edit a birth plan template compared to creating one from scratch. Listen to episodes 13 & 40 (for Parts 1 & 2 respectively) to hear Esther and Sarah explain each item on the plan. Love, Sarah & Esther

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

We asked the fatherhood expert: What are the top three topics that come up during First Time Dad group sessions?

David Arrell is the author of 'Welcome To Fatherhood: The Modern Man's Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Fatherhood', he is a Dad Coach and a leader of new father support groups. David is our guest on the Fourth Trimester Podcast.

On this episode he demystifies 'new father support groups' by sharing the top three topics that arise during his sessions.

As Jennifer Garner puts it, "From now on ladies, I will have a bump. And it will be my baby bump. And let's just all settle in and get used to it. It's not going anywhere."

Love your body. Love your body for so many reasons. Your body created new life. Your body gave you a baby you love. Your body works hard every day. Your body isn't a girl's body, it is a woman's body. Bodies change after having a baby, and that's okay. By loving your body, you are setting an example for your child that worth comes from who you are, not what you look like.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

'Why Not Home: The Surprising Birth Choices of Doctors and Midwives' is about "changing the conversation about birth in America and spreading evidence-based information about birth across settings." The short answer to home birth or hospital birth question is that there is no right answer. "Both options carry risks", Jessicca is quick to point out. However, some of the risks of a hospital birth are introduced by the fact that most hospital births come with an increased risk of interventions that would not have occurred at home. If you're considering a home birth, or just researching in general, we'd recommend listening to the episode and watching 'Why Not Home' on https://whynothome.vhx.tv/

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Dr Rebecca Dekker of Evidence Based Birth provides clear, plain-language guidance on postpartum recovery, including the very immediate period after birth from delivering the placenta and then through the extended fourth trimester.

Learn what the evidence points to so that you can make informed decisions and enhance your recovery period.

Full show notes

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Resources

Skin to Skin After A Cesarean

Evidence on Pitocin During the Third Stage of Labor

Why Postpartum Midwifery is Vital to Healing With Serena Saeed-Winn

FREE DOWNLOAD Birth Plan Template (a.k.a. Birth Intentions Document)

Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS)

The Best Hospitals For Labor And Delivery - Ratings App ‘Irth’ Created By Kimberly Seals Allers

The State of Postpartum Maternal Health with Dr Amanda P Williams 

The introductory episode of Fourth Trimester answers questions around doula care, postpartum care, and helps provide parents with an overview of some care options. For example, what are the strategies for taking care of the partner and the rest of the family while looking after your newborn? Thanks for listening! Sarah & Esther xo

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Returning guest Melissa Hurt shares common perinatal conditions you don't have to accept: depletion, pelvic imbalance, diastasis recti, weak core, vocal fry.

As a new mother, it can feel as though your body is going through all kinds of changes and challenges that you never expected. However, there are some perinatal conditions that you do not have to accept as your new normal. With some self-care, mindfulness, and the right support, you can overcome these challenges and find your way to a healthier, stronger postpartum experience. Hurt advises seeking support from a doctor, friends, or spiritual advisor to address any physical or mental health concerns. 

Transcript, links to resources mentioned on the show can be found on fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

This episode features Kiran Saluja, the Executive Director of the PHFE WIC (Women Infants Children) Program. She is a respected authority in the field of nutrition and breastfeeding. With a career spanning nearly 40 years, Kiran brings an exceptional depth of knowledge and passion to our discussion. 

We talk about common breastfeeding challenges and solutions, nutritional guidance, and the significance of building a robust support network, including practical advice on: 

• What Diet to Maintain While Breastfeeding
• Recognizing Infant Cues
• Managing Postpartum Expectations
• How Everyone Can Utilize WIC Resources 

Kiran is so down-to-earth and she is such an enjoyable speaker. Her own experiences as a mother and grandmother enrich our conversation with the many stories shared. We loved the discussion and hope you do as well!

Full show notes: 

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Links and resources mentioned: (links can also be found on fourthtrimesterpodcast.com)

Breastfeeding Resources: The decision of how to feed your baby is a big one. The more you learn about feeding your newborn, the more confident and comfortable you will be after your baby is born. This hospital experience guide will help you get off to a great start in the first hours and days after delivery, and this guide to breastfeeding has tips for positioning and getting a great latch. Feeding gets easier as the days go by and you get to know your baby’s hunger cues, fullness cues, and other ways they communicate with you.

Postpartum Nutrition: Taking care of YOU is as important as taking care of your baby. Be healthy for you and your baby both of you with good postpartum nutrition and self-care.

Find your local WIC program: www.Signupwic.com 

More than half of babies born in the US qualify for WIC. Use this screening tool to see if you may be eligible.

Connect with Kiran Saluja www.phfewic.org | Instagram | Facebook | TikTok

FREE Birth Plan Download

Serena teaches a class to help parents ease the transition into parenting by sharing what to expect and how to prepare for the first few months of being new parents. The class covers everything from postpartum healing, infant CPR and first aid, newborn care and gear, infant feeding, relationship savers and more.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Here's a quick guide to the questions every new parent asks. 

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Chanti Smith is an expert at human connection. She has worked with people of all ages to strengthen their parental attachment relationships. In particular, the work she does through Somatic Experiencing has helped parents develop a strong sense of connection and attachment with their babies.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

The episode about MIND + MOVEMENT. We speak with Evelyn Freebury who is a movement therapist and who has decades of experience working with parents and newborns. She shares ways in which movement therapy benefits both parent and newborn.

At the end of the episode, Evelyn leads us through a live, guided somatic experience. Enjoy!

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Laura Ash, a Clinical Herbalist, shares the benefits of herbal medicine for fertility, pregnancy and postpartum. Find out which are best for your goals.

Fourth Trimester listeners can use code FOURTH for 10% off purchases made on scarletsage.com

Full show notes and resource links:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Esther and Sarah return to the subject of visitors. A discussion of why visitors in the first two to six weeks aren't always the right thing for new parents from a physical, emotional-social and spiritual perspective, as well as why our culture doesn't foster appropriate support.

This episode of the Fourth Trimester Podcast is a playbook for handling visitors, including: 

setting boundaries for yourself

communicating how you need visitation to work to your loved ones

the difference between visitors who help vs visitors who don't know how to positively contribute 

how to set up an appropriate 'meet the baby' event 

why your birth story is a private experience you may or may not choose to share 

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

In this episode, Esther has a really fun and intimate chat with long-time pre- and post- natal yoga instructor Jane Austin about giving birth, what pregnant and new mommas need and the power of yoga. We have some laughs and Jane offers a lovely guided meditation!!

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Here to answer the questions you always wanted to ask is Esther Gallagher, long-time birth and postpartum doula.

Top questions on this episode include:

• Are Doulas Worth It? How Much Do they Cost and how do I get the service paid for?
• Can doulas bill my insurance / is it covered?
• What about workplace incentives like Carrot and Hello Cleo?
• Do doulas charge differently for virtual support?
• What about Medicaid paying for doulas?
• I’m someone who has had past trauma and I need special kind of support from my doula. Can they help? What is Trauma Informed Care?
• In terms of advocacy, can you advocate with more than my medical team? Can [you/doula] speak with my [partner, parents, therapist, dr…..]

Links and resources:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com (all resources below can be found here)

Learn more Doula Medicaid Project | Birth Doula 101 | What To Expect From A Postpartum Doula | The Dos & Don'ts Of Being A Respectful & HELPFUL Visitor To A New Parent | Knowledge is Power: Safer Childbirth Advice from Birth Trauma Attorney Gina Mundy

Recommended Mindfulness Childbirth and Parenting Courses | Somatic Experiencing

In this episode of Fourth Trimester Podcast, we are joined by an experienced financial advisor, Laura Davis CFP. 

This episode centers on how families can create a budget that sets the family up for financial success, including: what a budget is, how to create one, considerations before having a baby, what to budget for during pregnancy, postpartum and longer term (kids education, your own retirement etc.)

We also have a great conversation around helping raise children to be financially independent.

Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Connect with Laura Davis financiallab.us

Learn more  (all on fourthtrimesterpodcast.com)

Family Financial Wellness: Three Finance Must-dos for Families 

How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You if You Don’t Have a Doula (What is a Doula?)

Mindfulness Childbirth and Parenting Courses

FREE Download - Birth Plan Template

In this episode, hosted by Didi D'Errico as a special edition, we focus on ACTIONABLE ways you can build more reliable, more accessible and more timely support as a new parent.

We know there are enough barriers to support for new parents as it is, as highlighted by March of Dimes in their recent report on Maternity Care Deserts - THANK YOU for providing insights and data!

We talk you through specific steps you can take to have a better-resourced fourth trimester and beyond. We highlight FREE planning templates and tools that every new and expecting parent needs to know about, including a service we are very excited about called HelloGaia.

HelloGaia is a FREE AI-driven search-based chat tool that is designed to help families find fast, trustworthy, always-available answers to questions that will arise during pregnancy, postnatally and as their child grows. Get started with HelloGaia here.

Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Links to HelloGaia hellogaia.ai | Use Cases & Quotes (Listen to the bonus track at the end of this episode to hear a full review from Esther Gallagher, postpartum doula)

Resources mentioned FREE Birth Plan Template | FREE Fourth Trimester Plan Template

Learn more What To Expect From A Doula | March of Dimes Report on Maternal Care Deserts 

This episode is a guide for how friends or family members can take a deeply human and holistic approach to supporting birthgivers when professional doula services are either inaccessible or unaffordable.

Importantly, your support person (or persons if you are able to secure multiple helpers!) can provide crucial support before, during and after childbirth.

Whoever is attending your birth - and/or helping you after the birth - must give this one a listen - your mom, your partner, your sibling, your friend, or anyone else who will be there.

Listen to the full episode to hear step-by-step guidance on:

* The Role of a Support Person

* What to do Pre-Birth

* Strategies for Providing Support During Birth

* Practical Advice for Postpartum Support

* What to do Post-Birth

Make sure your support person listens to this episode and that together you talk through expectations and practical examples of what you'd like to happen.

There are lots of links in the show notes on our website that will be helpful resources for your support person.

Full show notes:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Parents benefit hugely from having regular and purposeful emotional outlets - when we take care of our own emotions, we are able to be more present, patient and connected with our children and families. 

Listening Partnerships are a tool we recommend for every parent to keep in their parenting toolbox. Why? It's FREE, it takes 5 mins a week, and it has tremendous benefits!!! 

Sarah and her real-life listening partner Kaitlin Solimine break down how to create and benefit from a listening partnership. Tune in to learn: 

• What is a Listening Partnership 
• Benefits of Listening Partnerships 
• How to create one of your own 
• Tools you can use

Full show notes: 

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com 

FREE Download Resources:

(Go to https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resources-recommendations/)

Customizable Birth Plan / Intentions Document

It's Black Maternal Health Week and in this episode Sarah talks with Dr Amanda P Williams about the current state of postpartum maternal health and birth equity.

Sarah first heard Dr Williams give the keynote talk at the Future of Maternal Care Summit. She invited Dr Williams onto the program to share her insights with all of our Fourth Trimester listeners.

Dr Williams is raising the bar for all birthing people and families by helping hospitals and innovators with improved practices and solutions. She is the Clinical Innovation Advisor with the California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative. Her legacy is about 'finding a better way' in the name of improved outcomes for women and families.

Listen to the episode to learn information that impacts us all, including practical guidance new and expecting families can put into practice right away, including:

• What the data tells us about postpartum maternal health 
• Postpartum medical warning signs and preventing complications
• Creating a postpartum village and doula support
• Exciting work that’s being done to innovate around maternal care
• Where new and expecting parents can go to find resources and support
• What to gift a pregnant or postpartum person (answer: blood pressure cuff, breast pump, doula)

Full show notes:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

FREE Download Resources:

(Go to https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resources-recommendations/)

Customizable Birth Plan / Intentions Document

Discover the wisdom of sacred postpartum traditions with Pānquetzani, a traditional healer and advocate for holistic maternal care. In this episode, we explore time-honored practices that support healing, thriving, and deep connection during the fourth trimester.

Learn how to honor your postpartum journey with simple, yet powerful practices that support lasting wellness.

Whether you're an expecting parent, new parent, or support person, this conversation offers invaluable tools to nurture mind, body, and spirit.

Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Connect with Pānquetzani indigemama.com | Facebook | Instagram

Caldo (bone broth) recipe fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/recipes

Learn more A Parent’s Guide To Building Self-Trust (And Why It Matters) With First Forty Days Author Marisa Belger | How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You if You Don’t Have a Doula (What is a Doula?)

Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram

• FREE HelloGaia Parenting Copilot
• FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan
• FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan
• FREE DOWNLOAD Birth Team Overview – Who’s Who At The Hospital

In this episode we dive deep into the crucial aspects of physical preparation for childbirth as we unveil targeted exercises, expert insights, and practical tips to empower expectant parents. Leah Keller, Founder of Every Mother, leads us through a transformative discussion that equips you with the tools needed to approach the birthing process with strength, resilience, and unwavering confidence.

Visit fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/everymother for 10% OFF Every Mother on-demand, personalized exercise regimes

Resources and show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

FREE Birth Plan Download fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resources

Julia Aziz captured 20+ years of working with parents in an incredibly readable memoir called Lessons of Labor wherein she documented learnings parents can apply in their own lives. Julia shares insights on living in the present, accepting help from others and creating joy and self-love throughout parenting.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Parenting isn’t just about raising children—it’s about the roles we all play in supporting the next generation. 

In this episode, PSI Founder Jane Honikman shares wisdom for parents, partners, and grandparents on the power of community, mental health, and the importance of not doing it alone.

Please share with the dads, grandparents, other caregivers and extended family in your life!

Special thanks to podcasthon.org, the world's largest podcast charity initiative.

Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Connect with PSI Founder Jane Honikman janehonikman.com

Learn more Postpartum Recovery Plan | Pinpoint Where You Are on the Spectrum of Mental Health

Resources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Postpartum Support International Parent Groups | PSI Helpline

Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram

Meghan Doyle, CEO of Partum Health helps families access services that address mental, emotional, physical well-being.

Learn about creating successful pre & postnatal care plans. Typical plans include birth and postpartum doula care, lactation support, and physical therapy services. Hear how parents are electing preventative services for mental health and taking other proactive steps.

Fourth Trimester listeners can use code FOURTHTRIMESTER for 50% off classes offered through Partum Health: partumhealth.com/events-classes

Full show notes and resource links:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Discover the benefits of babywearing in this episode with Whitney Dula, IBCLC, postpartum doula, and trained babywearing expert. Whitney shares tips on choosing and using baby carriers, safety essentials, and how babywearing supports bonding and development.

Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Connect with Whitney Dula themamasdula.com | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook

Learn more Babywearing How To Videos | HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE Babywearing Guide | Where to Check if Your Hand-Me-Down Carrier Has Been Recalled: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls | Amy Rainbow Adjoyn

Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram

Additional Resources

• FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan
• FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan
• FREE DOWNLOAD Birth Team Overview – Who’s Who At The Hospital

Confidence-building is a lifelong exercise for all people, including parents. Listen to this Confidence Masterclass on episode 62 of the Fourth Trimester Podcast. Learn the confidence-building foundations. This audio masterclass is designed for women and mothers in particular. The course covers: 

The importance of demonstrating confidence to our children

Loving and respecting yourself 

What self care means 

How to unearth your true identity 

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

How can partners prepare for the fourth trimester? Sure, we have lots of practical suggestions such as relationship proofing, practical preparation, but there are some big considerations outside the practical. Listen in to learn how to create a level of connectedness that will ease the way for everything else that is to come.

Enjoy! Sarah and Esther xo

Full episode notes:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Birth is one of the most transformative experiences in a person’s life, but when things don’t go as planned - something traumatic or simply not what you thought would happen - the emotional impact can linger.

Chanti Smith is a licensed professional midwife and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. In this episode she talks about healing from birth trauma and reclaiming joy.

Listen to learn how somatic experiencing helps release stored trauma, reconnect with the body, and create a new sense of empowerment. This conversation is an important reminder that healing is possible, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.

Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Connect with Chanti Smith embodiedbeginnings.com | Book A Session | Workshops

Learn more Somatic Experiencing Can Build Attachment Between Parent And Child | Reproductive Psychiatry: Optimizing Your Mental Health with Dr Ida Eden | Preparing to Enjoy the Fourth Trimester

Resources Mindfulness Childbirth and Parenting Courses | Somatic Experiencing | Snack Trays | castellinotraining.com

Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram

Additional Resources

• HelloGaia Parenting Copilot
• FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan
• FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan
• FREE DOWNLOAD Birth Team Overview – Who’s Who At The Hospital

I don't know about you, but one of my top goals as a parent of a newborn was getting more sleep. A night doula is a great addition to any postpartum dream team because they will help with achieving exactly that - more sleep. More sleep for you, your other family members in your household, your baby.

It's perfectly normal for newborns to be awake multiple times during the night (just ask PhD Sleep Consultant Dr Millette). And, it's also true that sleep deprivation is associated with an increased risk of postpartum anxiety and depression. Plus, sleep is simply wonderful.

In this episode, we talk with Kristin Revere, a doula and the founder of Gold Coast Doulas. She's also the author of Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby. We talk about how to get the most out of your night doula experience, including:

• Hiring the right person, what to check and ask
• Costs and affordability
• Benefits
• A typical night with a night doula
• What to expect: practical, mental, social, emotional support examples

Wishing you happy family sleep!

Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Connect with Kristin Revere goldcoastdoulas.com | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Learn more Doula Interview Questions | How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You if You Don’t Have a Doula (What is a Doula?) | A Parent’s Guide To Building Self-Trust (And Why It Matters) | Baby Sleep Solutions - The Top 10 Sleep Training Questions Every Parent Asks with Dr Angelique Millette

Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram

Additional Resources

• HelloGaia Parenting Copilot
• FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan
• FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan
• FREE DOWNLOAD Birth Team Overview – Who’s Who At The Hospital

In this episode, Sarah Trott talks with pediatric sleep consultant Dr. Angelique Millette to answer the top 10 TODDLER sleep questions every parent has. (Go to the BABY episode if you want help with baby sleep! Link below.)

Dr. Millette shares her expertise on the challenges of toddler sleep, providing practical solutions for common issues like bedtime resistance, night wakings, early morning risings, and more. She also covers how to recognize signs of sleep readiness, establish effective bedtime routines, and create an environment that supports restful sleep.

Listen to learn strategies tailored to meet a toddler’s specific needs, fostering smoother nights for the whole family.

Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.com (FREE Birth plan download here)

Connect with Dr Angelique Millette angeliquemillette.com | Facebook | YouTube

Resources mentioned Safe Sleep Guide for Room Sharing and Bed Sharing

Angelique's other sleep episodes Dr Angelique Millette on Sleep Training | The No-low Cry Sleep Method | Help Your Little One Prepare For Sleeping In Their Own Room | The Top 10 Baby Sleep Questions Every Parent Asks

Learn more Wire Your Baby for Success Through Optimal Newborn Brain Development | A Parent’s Guide To Building Self-Trust (And Why It Matters) With First Forty Days Author Marisa Belger

Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram | About & Contact

Additional Resources

• FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan
• FREE DOWNLOAD Birth Team Overview – Who’s Who At The Hospital
• HelloGaia Parenting Copilot

How To Build Your Strength After A Major Life Change - Jane Honikman Shares The Steps To Wellness

Jane Honikman gave her first baby up for adoption because she felt pressure to "do things in order". She later finished college, married the father and had additional babies with the same man who is now her husband. Jane described her experience of giving up her first baby as a trauma. Compounding that trauma was the feeling that her second baby, another girl, was severely jaundiced as a kind of karmic punishment for what she'd done with her first baby. The experience triggered tremendous grief and guilt. Jane was not able to recover from her traumas until decades later through therapy. She waited until she was in her fifties to get the help she needed, having felt waves of anxiety and depression throughout her life. Jane encourages women to seek out the help they need as soon as they are able, and not to postpone healing. In our latest episode, we share an outline to help address postpartum anxiety and depression issues. This is relevant for EVERYONE, not just people who are "depressed".

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Gina Mundy is an attorney that specializes in childbirth cases and she is a bestselling author. For over two decades, she has analyzed the mistakes that are made during labor and delivery. Drawing on this knowledge, she has authored the book "A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth" to help parents prevent these mistakes and have a healthy baby.

Sarah and Gina discuss proactive steps parents can take in order to help ensure a safer birth experience. Overall, the focus is on transforming fear and uncertainty around childbirth into an empowered and educated journey toward a safe and joyous birth.

Links and resources mentioned:

FREE DOWNLOAD Birth Plan Template https://bit.ly/45Sv9KF

Irth App https://irthapp.com/

Full show notes:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Here's what the midwives of San Francisco have to say to all expecting parents on the safety of home birth amid the unprecedented global event of Coronavirus (COVID-19) and government-imposed social-distancing. Women are questioning, in new ways, what should be considered "safe" for giving birth.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Our amazing guest for Episode 78 is Jeanae Hopgood-Jones who has taken a tragic and powerful experience as a mother and found a space of creativity and inspiration.  Her blog  https://blackangelmom.com/  is not only beautiful and sincere, it addresses areas of parenthood and life that are all too often relegated to the purely personal and not given or allowed a voice by the larger culture.  The loss of her twin daughters and reaching towards families of color and their experiences of loss are the seeds of this endeavor.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Sometimes simply knowing your options is what makes all the difference. Education is key for pregnant mothers as they prepare for their birth and early motherhood.

Birth Education is important for women because the "childbearing year" of pregnancy, labor, birth and the fourth trimester,  is the moment where fundamental respect, care and nurturing can be experienced and where culture-change can begin in each life with the benefits paying forward to individuals and society.

In this episode we have the honor and delight of speaking with a mother-daughter duo whose work together spans this cultural intervention of doula work in the context of social justice.  We weave together these elements along with the practical benefits of doula care. We explore the generational and traditional threads of women caring for families.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

In a world where postpartum care is often overlooked, postpartum midwifery care offers a valuable service to families.

This primer on midwifery is a must for anyone looking to learn more about how a midwife works with moms and families.

A common successful plan looks like this: hospital birth, birth doula present alongside doctor, go home, postpartum midwife plus postpartum doula care during first 30/60/90 days. Listen to learn more!

Special offer:

Enter code 4TRI to get 10% off all birth prep workshops and lactation consultations and $100 off postpartum packages. https://www.thekazproject.com/about-4

Show notes, links and more:

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Trusting another person to care for your child can be challenging. Having a plan in place for hiring and employing a childcare provider will go a long way in alleviating some of the stress. Put your plan in place with episode 63, including:

when to start looking for a nanny / childcare provider (accounting for how long it can take to hire someone)

how to pre-screen candidates and conduct the interview process (because you need more than one interview with your final selections)

conducting a nanny trial period 

how to develop and maintain a good line of communication between parents and care providers

what to expect for how to pay a nanny (over the table vs under the table) and having contracts 

how to consider the nanny's perspective, including pressure they may feel (e.g. if you don't have any backup care)

how to set clear household expectations 

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Mikka Bonel is a doula and a long-time facilitator of New Parent Circles. In these groups, parents gather in a safe and supportive, facilitated group. All parents of new babies are welcome to share and connect around the transition to their new role as a parent, changing family relationships, and the vast spectrum of emotions that arise in new parenthood.

In this episode, Mikka shares the top 5 questions parents ask in her groups, touching on:

• Confidence and balancing the pressure to "get it right"
• Partner dynamics
• Emotions during the fourth trimester
• Physical recovery
• Navigating first few days to 6 weeks

By listening, you'll benefit from decades of wisdom and experience that supports new parenthood.

Full show notes here: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Connect with Mikka birthingyoga.com | New Parent Circles | Instagram

Special Mention Natural Resources Online Shop Code: 4THTRIMESTER for $15 OFF  (On $40 or more)

Learn more Snack Trays | Postpartum Soups and Stews Collection | Wire Your Baby for Success Through Optimal Newborn Brain Development

Resources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan

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If you are even remotely considering hiring a doula to help you out after you've had a baby, we highly recommend listening to Monique Cowan (a.k.a. Monique The Doula) share her first-hand experiences in a typical day in her job. She talks through the practical offerings of helping families prepare for a birth and thrive after baby has arrived. 

Monique was inspired to become a postpartum doula after her own birth experience. She saw the potential to help women in her Southern California locale, particularly women of color and inner city areas.  She works with all people who need postpartum doula services and her website is https://moniquethedoula.wordpress.com/

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Sara Mauskopf came home from the hospital with a healthy baby. She herself on the other hand, while healthy otherwise, struggled with postpartum depression. With help from her family, friends and professionals, she came out the other side fully recovered. Her experience as a new mom, both because of the depression and in general, helped inspire her to create parenting app Winnie.

Be it Winnie or another app or online resource, we encourage parents of all types to seek the information and support they need. And there's no need to wait until after baby is born. While you're expecting is a great time to explore the resources around you for everything from parenting meetups to breastfeeding support to local kid-friendly restaurants and everything else.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

There is a lot to think about when you’re expecting a new little one, especially for the first time. This episode helps answer the following question:

What advice do we have for new parents-to-be to think about before they give birth, so that they can make the most of their 4th trimester?

Thanks for listening! Sarah & Esther xo

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Jane Honikman gives us an overview and outline for finding ourselves on the spectrum of mental health. Listen to the episode to find out how to identify different parts of the continuum and better understand where you yourself might fall on that spectrum.

She talks about her time studying with Dr. James Hamilton who was interested in maternal mental health at a time when it might have seemed as if no one cared or understood, much like today in many women's experience!

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Dr. Angelique Millette is a Family Sleep Consultant, Parent Educator, and creator of The Millette Method™. We welcomed her back on our show for a third time because she is simply that amazing. Here's what we discuss: 

How to prepare a baby for sleeping in their own room in a way that emphasizes safety and love for the child

When to start thinking about making the transition from room-sharing to the baby being in their own room (around 12-24 months is pretty typical) 

What considerations to make for having siblings sleep in the same room together

How sleep solutions vary from child to child 

How to identify and address nightmares and sleep terrors  

We discuss the phases of preparation for helping a baby prepare for sleeping in their own room, including practical exercises you can do at home with your child right away. For example, you can use pretend play to demonstrate safety, as well as draw pictures and tell stories about the bedtime routine. Listen to Episode 47 of the Fourth Trimester Podcast for the details. 

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

In this episode we are joined by an experienced financial advisor, Laura Davis CFP. Laura shares her expertise in transforming financial lives and provides actionable steps that parents and soon-to-be parents can take to secure a strong financial future for their families.

Learn the three financial must-dos for families that can help set your family up for success.

Full show notes:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Links/resources mentioned: (more links available in full notes article)

Sara Mauskopf CEO and Co-founder of Winnie | winnie.com | LegalZoom Estate Planning | A Parent’s Guide To Building Self-Trust (And Why It Matters)

Suzannah Neufeld, MFT, yoga therapist has dropped by my house to have tea and discuss her new book Awake At 3AM and tell us about how she applies insights both from psychotherapy and yoga/mindfulness practice to help parents through the very challenging perinatal period. Suzannah herself suffered with grueling hyperemesis and was thrown into depression and anxiety as a result.  Hear her story and learn about her approach to helping us with the tough stuff.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

The Mom Group Guide features special guest Rebecca Walsh, veteran Mom Group facilitator and Early Childhood Education leader with 20+ years of experience. Rebecca is The Queen Of Mom Groups.

We covered:

*why Mom Groups are so beneficial

*differences between First Time groups vs Second Time groups

*how facilitated groups lead to stronger connection within the group

*the biggest themes that come up during mom groups

*how to facilitate your own group if you don't have one in your area

*recommendations for leading in-person and online groups

Use Code FOURTH for 20% OFF mom groups and programs:

earlychildhoodmatters.org

Resources and show notes: (including links to all of the recommended mom groups mentioned)

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

The number one complication of pregnancy is a form of postpartum depression or anxiety. Despite how common it is for women to experience a degree of anxiety or depression associated during pregnancy or post-natally, there are still cases where women aren't receiving the care they need.

To help crack the issue wide open, Maureen Fura and her co-producer Jennifer Silliman created a documentary film entitled, The Dark Side Of The Full Moon.

The issue is dear to Marueen's heart. She was suicidal during her pregnancy and had dozens of counselors, OBs, psychiatrists and social workers tell her there was nothing they could do to help her. No wonder she took the matter into her own hands. She was particularly motivated to seek help before her baby was born because she was worried about the baby being taken away. Then again, she also planned to take her own life after the baby was born. These feelings are very real, and sadly, very common.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

We take you step-by-step through a birth plan document (and there's even a template on our site!

We define and talk through the pros and cons of each item. Enjoy! Sarah & Esther xo

Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

• Birth Plan Part 2: Episode 40
• Birth Plan Part 3: Episode 42

Learn more Home Birth As An Alternative To The Hospital | Four Relationship-Saving Questions To Ask Before Baby Arrives

Having six children means Shari Stamps knows a fair bit about preparing for postpartum. Since having kids, she's dedicated her life to growing her experience as a perinatal professional, taking many courses including doula training. Now she's sharing her wisdom from her own parenting experience plus her professional training with us.

Hear Shari's tips for postpartum and birth preparation, including:

• Who to Include in a Comprehensive Support Village
• When to Start Putting Resources in Place
• Clinical Vs Non-clinical Support Postpartum
• Advice on Preparing One’s Home, Nurturing Relationships, and Setting Boundaries
• Actionable Steps New Parents Can Take to Feel More Prepared, Supported, and Confident as They Transition Into This New Phase of Life

Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Free birth plan download: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resources

Free Infant Massage Course fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/shari

Even Kourtney Kardashian ate her own placenta. Some women eat their placenta because they believe the organ contains the nutrients being transferred from mother to child while the baby is in the womb. Some benefits could include increased breast milk production and a decrease in post-natal depression.

Spring Childers is a certified doula, massage therapist, placenta encapsulation specialist.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Unlock the secrets of newborn brain development with Childhood Educator Rebecca Walsh. Discover how to wire your baby for success.

Listen to the full episode to learn what you need to know for helping your baby develop intelligence, plus the strong interpersonal and soft skills they’ll require later in life - both the EQ and IQ. You'll learn:

* How the brain develops

* What parents can do practically to optimize that development

* "Serve and Return" interaction concept

* How supporting your infant during the first year of life helps set them up for success as older kids and adults

* Example routines and rituals you can implement right away

We would love for everyone to understand the fundamentals of supporting newborn brain development. Enjoy!

Full show notes:

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

As it turns out one in three women experience urinary incontinence after having a baby. The good news is that urinary control is something that can be regained. In other words, if you wee yourself a little bit (like Kate Winslet), this isn't something you have to live with forever.

Women can regain confidence that they aren't going to accidentally pee during exercise (think running, jumping jacks, CrossFit, etc.), when they sneeze, laugh out loud, or simply when they have to go to the bathroom. Here's how.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

LGBTQ Parenting and the community organization that supports it in the Bay Area are our topic in this episode. Our Family Coalition is a non profit that is also involved in policy work and advocacy throughout the state of California. Our guests Dy Nguyen and Jeanette Page bring their individual and collective experience to the show to talk about family-making outside the heterosexual box. 

We discuss:

Differences in the process of becoming a family with kids

Getting pregnant— finding a donor/partner/village, acquiring sperm, insemination services

What the LGBTQ “village” can look like

Our Family Coalition programs: playgroups, support groups, parenting classes

Big events

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

In this episode of Fourth Trimester, we're joined by Dr. Melissa Dennis, a seasoned OBGYN with over two decades of experience in healthcare. Dr. Dennis shares her evidence-based insights and practical advice on how to navigate the often-overlooked but critical phase of birth recovery. 

We discuss essential knowledge and practices that can support smoother recoveries and enhance the overall post-birth experience, including: 

• The Role of An OBGYN
• Birth Team Scenarios 
• An Overview of the Six Week Check 
• Top Recommendations for Improving the Birth Recovery Experience

Full show notes: 

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

FREE Download Resources: 

(Go to https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/resources-recommendations/)

Customizable Birth Plan / Intentions Document 

Overview of Birth Team Members & Roles 

Other Resources Mentioned:

partumhealth.com

postpartum.net

It makes intuitive sense that communication and play during the first 0-12 months of a baby's life help set the tone for the child's relationship with the world around them. But how do we proactively and thoughtfully communicate with a baby in a way that encourages learning, emotional security and confidence? 

Here's what you'll learn on Episode 51 of the Fourth Trimester Podcast:

+ How to support early communication - from birth and beyond!

+ How to be musical with your baby (even if you don't consider yourself "musical")

+ Tips for raising a bilingual/multilingual baby

+ Why the tools to support your baby's development are already in your home

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Chinese culture practices postnatal "confinement" also known as "sitting the month" where women adhere (as much or as little as they want) to a set of guidelines designed to help them relax and regain strength after giving birth. Lisa Chin shares her story, and talks about her efforts to transform the postpartum experience for others through the Fourth Trimester Summit

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Dr. Angelique Millette is a nationally-recognized pediatric sleep consultant. We discuss realistic expectations for sleep during the first weeks and months with a newborn, strategies for parents with newborns to maximize sleep for everyone, and napping. Enjoy! Sarah and Esther xo

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

What is a midwife? How to decide on a midwife vs an OB? The Midwife perspective on the Fourth Trimester

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Every woman deserves the opportunity to fully heal and recover from birth trauma. It is never too late to address a past trauma.

Listen to this episode of Fourth Trimester Podcast to hear: 

How to recognize that you've experienced trauma or PTSD 

How to begin addressing a potential trauma - the first steps to take for healing 

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

The FINAL Birth Plan Episode. We provide a Birth Plan Template you can download and customize for your own use in hospital or for a home birth. It is 1,000 times easier to edit a birth plan template compared to creating one from scratch. Listen to episodes 13 & 40 & 42 (for Parts 1 & 2 & 3 respectively) to hear Esther and Sarah explain each item on the plan. Love, Sarah & Esther

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

One of the major contributors to that feeling of overwhelm for expecting parents is the notion of having to hurry up and prepare for their little one's arrival.

A major tickbox for that preparedness is BUYING TONS OF STUFF. That can be a fun part, and also a hugely EXPENSIVE and EXHAUSTING experience.

So here's the simple thing you can do: buy a charming, high-quality clothing set that you can sell-back to a community of like-minded parents. 

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Infertility and pregnancy loss are deeply emotional and often isolating experiences. Knowing how to approach and discuss these topics with sensitivity is essential. In this episode, we will explore strategies for addressing infertility and pregnancy loss, offering support, and witnessing grief.

Emily Barrett, PsyD is a licensed psychologist in California. She is the special guest on this episode and she brings both her professional background working with clients on their own grief, and also her personal experiences with infertility and pregnancy loss. She’s passionate about helping women and families heal, and here she is teaching us all how to embrace the emotional expression that’s necessary for holistic wellness.

Full show notes and resource links:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Women who don’t meet their personal breastfeeding goals tend to think it is their own fault. It is time for women to stop blaming themselves.

Women are starting to learn that difficulty with breastfeeding isn’t their fault, and that oftentimes what is happening is that the hospital environment and modern medical system isn’t setting women up for breastfeeding success.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

We are so happy to introduce Nethal Abdul-Mu-Amin to our listeners.  In this episode we also give our listeners an opportunity to learn a bit about Islamic cultural diversity and how Nethal is helping Muslim families find their reflection in the Parenting Community.

We discuss the following and more:

Homebirth Midwifery in the era before legalization and the current state of access

Nethal’s background and what led her to become a Birth and Postpartum Doula and Childbirth Educator

Resources Nethal has helped develop  as a Childbirth Educator, specifically for the Muslim community

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Learn strategies for feeding the new parent in your life and yourself as you make your way through the first weeks and months with your newborn at home. Esther is your digital postpartum doula. Eat well! Sarah and Esther xo

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

When it comes to exercise postpartum, the primary message is to take the time you need to heal. Don’t rush to “get your body back” because it is easy to do more harm than good by pushing your body too hard before it is ready. The best thing to do for your body right after having a baby is to rest and recover. There are people out there who want to help you and who have the right tools to help you. It is okay that your body takes time to heal and build strength back. There are smart ways to develop strength and function, such as learning how posture and breathing can help you in everyday activities. When your body is ready, and that could be months or years after giving birth, you can develop a fitness strategy that is appropriate for yourself.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

This episode is about finding the best labor and delivery hospitals using community-based tools and reviews. Listen to learn more about how community reviews tools are helping women find better facilities. Think “Yelp for hospitals”.

Kimberly Seals Allers is our featured guest. She is the creator of Irth, a non-profit app designed to collect and leverage reviews of birthing hospitals and pediatricians from Black and Brown communities to hold these institutions accountable and facilitate systems change for bias-free experiences.

The app facilitates transparency and community empowerment by allowing users to share their experiences, which are turned into actionable data for improving care. With ongoing community engagement, including a paid ambassador program for birth workers, Irth serves as an education tool, a platform for raising care expectations, and an advocate for more birthing options and empowerment in motherhood.

Full show notes and links:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Listen up if you're considering home birth. In this episode, we touch on the breadth of women's historical engagement with their perinatal care, including the shift from home to hospital, bias and racism in our care system, government programs and how they do and don't work, and some of the history of midwifery in the US and the UK.

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Good Enough Mothering is actually The Best Mothering.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

This episode is a high-level introduction of RIE infant parenting. Some of the themes discussed are about slowing down, truly connecting with your baby by giving them your full attention, and creating some predictability for your infant as part of the day-to-day routines. Listen to learn how to apply some of these principles to your own experience as a new parent.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Allyson Downey is CEO and co-founder of weeSpring, a start-up that helps new and expecting parents collect advice from their friends about what they need for their family. "Yelp for baby products,"

She's also the author of HERE'S THE PLAN, a career guide for pregnancy and parenthood, published in 2016 by Seal Press.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

We had the pleasure of speaking with Dr Adrian Villalba about perinatal chiropractic practices that benefit mothers. Having balance in your body both before and after giving birth can benefit new mamas in their recovery process. Adrian is certified in Webster Technique by the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association. Listen to learn more about out how this works.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Guest Reise Tanner applies her decades of mentoring experience to share guidance on creating an atmosphere of confidence and acceptance for new parents. She helps parents articulate new visions of themselves amid their most challenging and inspiring periods of change. Her website is http://www.reisetanner.com/

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Meet a mama who created a successful tech startup after having her first baby. We discuss the balance of baby life and social life, as well as how to prepare for baby number two. Enjoy!

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

In this informative episode of the Fourth Trimester Podcast, we're diving deep into a topic that affects many postpartum individuals but is often shrouded in mystery and concern – Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Join us as we welcome physiologist Jenn Lormand, a physiologist in women's health for nearly 30 years, to discuss practical strategies for both avoiding and addressing this common postpartum issue.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse can be a source of anxiety for many, but there is hope. Jenn will share her personal experience with stage two prolapse and how she sought alternative (non-surgical) methods for healing. In sharing her wealth of knowledge, Jenn helps you understand the ins and outs of this condition without the panic. Learn about the common causes, symptoms, and risk factors associated with Pelvic Organ Prolapse, as well as valuable insights into how you can protect your pelvic health during and after pregnancy.

Jenn Lormand provides invaluable tips and exercises to help strengthen your pelvic floor, improve your overall well-being, and potentially prevent or alleviate Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Whether you're currently dealing with this condition or just looking to safeguard your pelvic health as part of birth preparation, this episode is filled with empowering information to help you on your journey to recovery and resilience. (It’s never too late to do the repair work!)

Join us for a compassionate and insightful conversation that puts you in control of your pelvic health. Tune in to the Fourth Trimester Podcast to gain a better understanding of Pelvic Organ Prolapse and the tools you need to take the panic out of prolapse.

Use Code FOURTH for $50 off any of Jenn’s programs: https://www.tightenyourtinkler.com/signatureprogram

Resources and show notes: (including free exercises you can do right away)

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Empowerment Coach Lisa Chin shares how parents can become more confident and authentic through self-discovery and healing

By addressing and releasing past traumas, mothers can create a more nurturing environment for themselves and their children, fostering a sense of authenticity, peace, and growth.

Listeners of the Fourth Trimester can receive a 10% discount on their first session with Chin by using the code FTPODCAST when booking on lisaforreal.com

Full show notes and resource links:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

In this episode of Fourth Trimester Podcast, functional medicine dietitian Bridgitte Mallinson joins us to explore the essentials of prenatal vitamins. She illuminates the purpose of various supplements, emphasizing their critical role in nurturing both maternal and fetal health throughout pregnancy.

Bridgitte explains which vital nutrients expectant mothers should prioritize and highlights red flags to watch out for when selecting prenatal supplements, empowering listeners to make informed choices tailored to their unique needs.

Listen to the full episode to learn all about:

* What prenatal vitamins do

* What nutrients to look for and why

* Any red flags to watch out for when selecting a prenatal

* How to incorporate prenatals into your routine

* Taking vitamins after birth during postpartum and while nursing

Special offer:

Use code FOURTH for 10% OFF everything at GutPersonal, including Prenatal Vitamins by shopping here gutpersonal.com/fourth

Full show notes:

fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Sandra Lloyd is a Depth Hypnosis Practitioner. Learn about how becoming a parent brings up emotional issues from our own experience as children. We share thoughts on how to take what you want from your own childhood experiences and how to make conscious decisions about the kind of parent you want to be.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Parents can have a hard time doing something for themselves, but will do anything for their child. When new moms and dads take care of themselves, they are increasing the capacity they have to take care of their baby. Here's what you can do for yourself in order to give your infant a better experience.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

The Fourth Trimester Podcast is honored to have guest Miriam Zoila Pérez on our program. She and Esther discuss issues around birth support work as it relates to racism, politics, gender roles, anthropology and yes, even chemistry. 

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Authors of The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother. We discuss how to prepare your home, your kitchen, your mind and your supporters ahead of baby’s arrival.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Learn how to fortify your relationship before baby arrives. We speak with Marisa Belger who is the co-author of The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother about important topics soon-to-be parents can discuss together.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Practical solutions for making necessary adjustments for a second baby to join the family in a way that helps meet everyone's needs, including your older child

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

We at Fourth Trimester teamed up with Career Coach Sharon Weinberg to create a guide to help you make a smooth transition between working and being on leave.

The guide is useful for those who will be having a leave of one month or more, although elements of the approach can easily be used effectively for shorter absences.

This preparation can enable you to create the necessary clarity, accountability, and continued execution to strategy by you and your team during your absence and set them up for success.

Contact Sharon with discount FOURTH for your own customized coaching sessions sharon@sharonweinberg.com

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Guest Beth Berry, writer, life coach, mother of four daughters explains how In the Absence of the Village, parents Struggle Most. Beth’s coaching work focuses on empowering women and families. When we take care of ourselves, we are better able to care for others. Her site is called Revolution from Home http://revolutionfromhome.com/

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

I had a ton of anxiety about THE BIRTH. And then a fair amount of feelings about being a parent - would I be good enough? I appreciated talking with Leah Chalofsky about the New Parents Circle and Cesarean Birth Support Group, anxiety (as it relates to pregnancy and parenting), domestic violence, and teen pregnancy/parenting. The recorded conversation (Episode 66 of Fourth Trimester Podcast) includes all these topics:

Hormones and their influence

Emotions prior to birth 

Anxiety, Depression and "feeling bad about feeling bad" 

First two years of child's life - transitions physical and mental 

Benefiting from being around other parents

Ruling out physical issues - how physical and emotional are intertwined 

LISTEN AND TELL YOUR FRIENDS - I’m a Mom doing this for other Moms :)

Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com

Having worked with women through all stages of pregnancy, from pre-natal right through postpartum, Susi Hately has observed that a lot of new moms seem resigned to the fact that post-baby body is just ‘the way things are’ – prolapses, dry vaginas, painful sex, leakage, etc. Susi is on our show to help educate expecting mothers on how to take care of their wellbeing during pregnancy, postpartum and beyond.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Calisha Cobb is the founder and patented inventor of HANDY (Hands-Free Pumping Bra Tops). As a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Mother of two breastfed daughters, she experienced the challenges of breastfeeding when she returned back to work, and shortly thereafter, as the result of common challenges that working breastfeeding Mothers face, the HANDY Top was invented! Her goal is to assist all Moms in achieving their breastfeeding goals.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

We are excited to call this episode of the Fourth Trimester Podcast the TWINS episode. Here's what we cover: 

Having twin babies prematurely and a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) experience

Why it isn't just a simple formula of twice the work 

Identifying and getting help for postpartum anxiety 

Feeding two babies at the same time 

Taking shifts between parents, and additionally with the help of a doula or someone else and how that can benefit everyone 

Preparing for the specific differences between preparing for having multiple babies compared to a single baby

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Ever heard of Vaginal Steaming? Neither had we! Turns out, V-Steaming is a well-known and well-loved practice around the world. People love the practice for fertility, cycle cleanses, postpartum recovery & menopause. File it under "feels good and has potentially awesome benefits."

We invited a V-Steam expert, Keli Garza, to join us on Fourth Trimester Podcast and share all the juicy - dare we say, steamy! - details.

Enjoy the show! This is a fun one!

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Dr Monica Hannon is our guest on episode 21 and she shares some of the major issues that mothers and partners face during the first six weeks following the birth of a baby. Find out when it makes sense to pick up the phone and call your doctor.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

On Episode 56 of the Fourth Trimester Podcast we speak with Lynn Benson, co-author of "Chicken Soup for the Soul Life Lessons for Busy Moms."

Listen to hear more about: 

Signs you’re suffering from burnout as a result of caregiving

The physical, emotional stress and financial toll of caregiving

Tools and resources available to help family members with the challenges of caregiving

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

Renée Ann Cramer is our guest on episode 45 of the Fourth Trimester Podcast. She wrote "Pregnant With The Stars: Watching And Wanting The Celebrity Baby Bump" as part of her research into the culture around pregnancy and celebrity. She shares personal stories about her experience as a mother, as well as her fascinating perspective on how celebrity image plays into the psyche of modern parents.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/

The episode all about Dads. We talk with a stay-at-home Dad, Andrew Gentry-Law, who shares his personal experiences with newborn twins, and about his work in helping other new dads in their roles as fathers. He is also a licensed marriage and family therapist.

https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/