Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey (Laura Birek, Shanna Micko)

Laura reports on entering the second trimester and taking a babymoon to Hawaii, and Shanna describes feeling her baby move. Also, in the special segment "What I Googled This Week," embarrassment abounds as Shanna and Laura admit the pregnancy topics they asked the internet this week, including the topics of sore butts, peeing while sneezing and more. Finally, the moms-to-be also divulge their highs and lows (BFPs and BFNs) this week. Laura is 14 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 18 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 14 of pregnancy -Week 18 of pregnancy -Second trimester -Babymoon -Hawaii -Fetal movement -Feeling your baby move -Butt hurting from sitting while pregnant -Peeing while sneezing when pregnant -Mercury in fish -Prenatal vitamins / gummies -Baby nursery design This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna duke it out in a thrilling round of baby-related trivia, where we learn the birth weight of one of basketball’s biggest stars, among other facts. Also, Shanna discusses scoring some drugs for her newborn, and Laura talks about a fascinating quality of breast milk. Finally, the new moms reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is eight weeks old, and Laura’s baby is four weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-36/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s less than 24 hours ‘til Laura’s c-section, and she talks about what she’s been up to in the last days and hours before her delivery, and Shanna reports on her latest attempts to get her newborn to gain weight, including a new galactagogue and a helpful support group. In this week’s special segment, "They Said What?!," Shanna and Laura flip the script on the segment's regular format to share the best parenting and pregnancy advice they’ve received, diving into the topics of Janet Lansbury, respectful parenting, nursing bras and more! Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 38 weeks pregnant, Shanna is three weeks postpartum, and her baby is three weeks old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 38 of pregnancy -3 weeks postpartum -3-week-old baby -24 hours before giving birth -Making a baby quilt -Experiencing a newborn poop explosion -Using galactagogues to increase breastmilk -Taking Reglan to increase milk supply -Going to a breastfeeding support group -Weighing your baby before and after breastfeeding -Figuring out your parenting philosophy -Reading the book Elevating Childcare by Janet Lansbury -RIE parenting, respectful parenting, gentle parenting -Nursing bras -Doing kegals -Christmas This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In part two of "Checkin' the Inbox," Laura and Shanna answer more listener questions, diving into the topics of fertility tests, baby names, diet culture and more! Also, Shanna talks about her daughter's student council campaign, and Laura reports on her 5-year-old's latest writing achievement. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Helping your kid run for student council -When letters and writing click for your Kindergartener -How to handle social media when you are pregnant -Handling grief when you are a parent -Trying to conceive -Should I do fertility testing before trying to conceive This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Never Have I Ever: Parenting Edition," Laura and Shanna dive into the topics of unusual things we have bought for our kids, the eerie things we've heard lately as parents and more! Also, Laura discusses her experience getting a colonoscopy and how it affected her mom life, and Shanna reports on the newest reward system she's invented for her kids. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Getting a colonoscopy -Preparing for a colonoscopy when you're a mom -Creating a reward system for your kids to incentivize good behavior -When your kid wants to use vampire teeth -Handling your child's big emotions at pickup time -When your child talks about their past lives -Hearing creepy things on the baby monitor -Trouble with kids' extracurricular activities -Spending time with family friends This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s special segment, "Big Topic," Shanna and Laura dive deep into the highly anticipated event… Shanna’s birth! Shanna talks about what it was like to have a planned c-section birth, what her hospital stay was like, how the baby is doing and more! Also, Laura reports on her baby shower and discusses her birth plan for her breech baby. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 35 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is no longer pregnant! Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 35 of pregnancy -Week 39 of pregnancy -Having a baby shower -Planning for a breech baby delivery -Giving birth -Having a planned c-section delivery -Useful things to have in your hospital bag This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura are dissed, shamed and stunned in this week’s special segment, “They Said What?!”, in which the new moms recount shocking, hilarious or offensive things people have said to them lately. Also, Laura reports on her baby’s two-month vaccinations, and Shanna talks about how her baby’s perfectly constructed sleep environment is turned on its head. Finally, the new moms reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 12 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is eight weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-40/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna both dive into the topic of being working moms. Laura reports on the challenges of her freelance projects ramping up at the least ideal time, and Shanna reports on adjusting to returning to the office after working remotely for almost six years. Also, in the special segment "Loose Ends," Shanna and Laura give updates about topics they've talked about previously, including potty training, pom-pom jars, parkour and more! Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -The challenges of being a working mom -Returning to the office after working remotely -How to handle childcare when you are a working parent -Potty training -Should I let my kids do drop-off playdates? -Visual calendars and clocks for kids -Why is my child chewing on her hair? -Making time for yourself when you're a mom -Listening to audiobooks This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna get in the Halloween spirit with a very spooky "Throwback" segment, in which Laura recounts unsettling moments from her childhood living in a haunted house. Also, Shanna reports on how the Halloween season disrupts her life, and Laura discusses the evolution of her 3-year-old's Halloween costume. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Halloween -Costume ideas for your kids -Celebrating Halloween with your kids -Growing up in a haunted house -Doing Halloween crafts with your kids -Seeing "The Wild Robot" movie with your kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura reports on her interview with a doula and how it didn't go as expected, and Shanna talks about the physical challenges of being pregnant, including insomnia and body aches. Also, in the new special segment “They Said What?!” Laura and Shanna share the shocking or ridiculous things people have said to them about pregnancy, including some choice words about breastfeeding, placentas and more! The moms-to-be also reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 22 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 26 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 22 of pregnancy -Week 26 of pregnancy -Doulas -Pregnancy insomnia -Physical discomfort during pregnancy -Weird things people say when you're pregnant -Breastfeeding -First poop after birth -Eating your placenta -Being pregnant at work -Going to the zoo while pregnant This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura discusses her first “girls’ night out” since having her baby, and Shanna talks about her bouts of postpartum insomnia. Also, in the segment “Today I Learned,” the new moms share interesting info they’ve recently learned about birth control and prenatal care. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 20 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 16 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-48/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna introduce a brand-new special segment in which they invite a fellow parent on to participate in a classic BFP segment of the guest's choice and share about what's going on in their parenting world! In this episode, Shanna and Laura chat with mom and writer Heather Sundell, who talks about her experience making a big life decision when she was 8 months pregnant. Also, Laura discusses her struggle to make time for her 3-year-old's school event during a very busy work week, and Shanna reports on hosting a kids' Halloween party at her house. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Halloween events and parties -Balancing work and parenting -Deciding whether to go back to school when you are a mom -Whether or not to cancel your child's extracurricular activity -Dia de los Muertos This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna reports on her 20 week anatomy scan and how her previous missed miscarriages affect her experience of this pregnancy, and Laura discusses getting parenting advice from friends, including info about the first poop after childbirth. Also, in the special segment "Big Topic," the moms-to-be dive deep into a discussion about how to decide if you want kids. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 16 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 20 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 16 of pregnancy -Week 20 of pregnancy -Second trimester -20 week anatomy scan -Miscarriage -Missed miscarriage -Pregnancy anxiety -First poop after childbirth -Deciding if you want kids -How to decide if you want to become a parent -Sleeping while pregnant -Congestion during pregnancy This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment, "They Said What?!" Shanna and Laura discuss the funny, outrageous or offensive things people have said to them recently about parenting, including stories about negligent neighbors and movie-theater mishaps. Also, Laura reports on her 5-year-old's surprising new outdoor interest, and Shanna discusses a last-minute pivot she and her husband had to make on Christmas Eve. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Christmas with young kids -Doing yard work with young kids -Big-muscle activity for kids -Kids and trampolines -Should I give big gifts from Santa or from parents -Falling asleep during movies as a mom -Rude neighbors This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna reports on her first trimester screening and shares the results of her nuchal translucency scan (NT scan), and Laura discusses how her geneticist mom encouraged her to do comprehensive genetic testing. In the special segment "OMG I'm Freaking Out," the moms-to-be also discuss what pregnancy related topics they felt anxious about recently, diving into the topics of telling friends and family about being pregnant, getting home renovations done before the baby arrives and more. Finally they divulge their highs and lows (BFPs and BFNs) this week. Laura is 9 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 13 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 9 of pregnancy -Week 13 of pregnancy -Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) -First-trimester screening -NT scan -Genetic testing in pregnancy -3D ultrasounds -Sharing news of being pregnant -Pregnancy announcement -Home renovation -Maternity jeans -Maternity clothes -Keeping pregnancy a secret This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura share last-minute gift ideas and holiday tips in the special segment "What the Hack?!," including tricks for hanging ornaments, managing holiday-morning chaos and more! Also, Shanna checks in on her mission to remove 1,000 pounds of sand from her backyard, and Laura talks about an artistic activity that has deeply engaged her 5-year-old. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -How to get rid of a sandbox -My kid keeps drawing violent images -Tips and tricks for managing the holidays with kids -Last-minute holiday gift ideas This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna tells the story of a mishap during her rejuvenating "me day," and Laura reports on her family's unique way of celebrating the 4th of July. Also, in the special segment "Why Is My Kid Crying," Shanna and Laura thoughtfully dissect the seemingly mundane situations that have caused their little ones to melt down recently, including big feelings about desert birds and swing sets. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Feeling overwhelm as a mom -Taking a "me day" as a mom -Finding a way to relax and recharge as a parent -Spending the 4th of July with kids -Understanding the deeper meaning behind your child's big feelings -How to respond when your child expresses jealousy -How to respond when your child expresses anxiety -Kids musical theater -Reaction to fireworks as a parent This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s “Big Topic,” Shanna discusses her journey of trying to conceive, which includes a long, circuitous route through infertility, pregnancy loss, reproductive endocrinologists and IVF. Laura discusses the intricate baby-name spreadsheet she created, and Shanna talks about her 32-week growth scan and feeling her baby's hiccups in utero. The moms-to-be also reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 28 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 32 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 28 of pregnancy -Week 32 of pregnancy -Baby names -Fetal growth scan -3D ultrasound pictures -Fetal hiccups -Trying to conceive -Miscarriage -IVF -Third trimester This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Throwback," Laura tells the story of her very first best friend in Kindergarten and the turn of events in their friendship that broke her heart. Also, Shanna reports on her 5-year-old's language development, including the hilarious insults she coined, and Laura discusses the feelings that came up during her 3-year-old's preschool completion ceremony. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Preschool graduation/completion ceremony -5-year-old experimentation with language -Kids' funny insults -Friendships in kindergarten -Should I let my young daughter wear makeup -Taking kids to Brick Fest This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Loose Ends," Laura and Shanna circle back on topics they've talked about in previous episodes, including updates about inane injuries, toy tantrums, 5-year-olds' friendships, and one of BFP's colossal cliffhangers to date. Also, Laura reports on her 3-year-old's "why phase," which is more like a "who, what, when, where, why phase," and Shanna checks in on her dog, Sasha, and discusses the challenge of handling conflicting emotions when you are a parent. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Handling your child's "why phase" or "question phase" -Helping your child deal with the loss of a family pet -Compartmentalizing emotions when you are a mom -Tip for helping plantar fasciitis -Kindergartener friendships -Setting boundaries with your kids -Water slide injuries and other weird injuries when you are a parent -Should I buy that big-ticket outdoor toy for my kids? This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna interview gestational surrogate Deanna Koelsch, who is currently pregnant with her fourth surrogacy! Deanna talks about what it’s like to carry another family’s child, how she got into surrogacy, how her own family and children feel about her doing so, and much more. Also, Shanna discusses her current struggles with her baby’s 8-month sleep regression, and Laura reports on her baby’s first trip on an airplane. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is seven months and three weeks old, and Laura’s baby is six months and three weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-61/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To celebrate their 300th episode, Laura and Shanna have invited Shanna's mom Janet on the show! In this very special "Throwback" segment, Janet takes us back to her pregnancy, birth and early parenthood with Shanna. She talks about being pregnant during an ice storm, moving cross-country with an infant, how Shanna was the opposite of what she expected her to be and more. She also shares funny and fond memories of her early motherhood and offers her best parenting advice. Also, Shanna gives an update on her daughters' progress with their new pom-pom reward system, and Laura reports on her 5-year-old's transition to a big-kid bed. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Rewarding your kids for their good behavior -Transitioning your child to a big-kid bed -The story of Shanna's birth -Some of the best things about being a mom -Advice about parenting from Shanna's mom -Doing volunteer work with your kids -Going on a field trip with your preschooler This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura answer more listener questions in another installment of "Checkin' the Inbox," diving into the topics of gender disappointment, surrogacy, introversion and more. Also, Laura talks about throwing a joint birthday party for her sons at the same time she had to care for her ailing cat, and Shanna reports on her kindergartener losing her first tooth. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Throwing a joint birthday party for your kids -Losing a family pet -When your child loses their first tooth -Defying gender norms -Handling gender disappointment -Being a surrogate -Traveling during the third trimester -Knowing when your preschooler is ready to nap This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna dive into bed sharing and baby hormones in this week’s special segment, “OMG I’m Freaking Out!” Also, Shanna discusses the joys of receiving baby smiles, and Laura reports on her baby’s impressive growth stats. Finally, the new moms reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is six weeks old, and Laura’s baby is two weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-34/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Checkin' the Inbox," Shanna and Laura answer listener questions about the most rewarding and most challenging parts of parenting, the best kids' books they've read recently, how to prevent getting peed on during a diaper change and more! Also, Shanna reports on the surprising reason she got a day off of parenting, and Laura discusses her moment of panic at Disneyland. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Getting a day off from parenting -Elle's 9th birthday -Sebastian's 4th birthday -Going to Disneyland with your family -Best and worst parts of parenting during the newborn phase -Best and worst parts of parenting during the toddler phase -Best and worst parts of parenting during the school-age phase -Great kids' picture books and chapter books -How to help your child transition from preschool to Kindergarten -How to handle being an "old" parent -How to avoid getting peed on by your baby boy during diaper changes This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s special segment, "Big Topic," Shanna and Laura dive deep into a very exciting event… Laura’s c-section delivery of her baby boy! She reports on her nerves and anxiety the night before, what the experience was like to deliver a breech baby, breastfeeding after delivery, baby's first bath, and unexpected challenge after returning home from the hospital and more. Also, Shanna reports on her newborn's struggles with acid reflux and the advice the pediatrician gave her to improve it. Finally, the new moms reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna is four weeks postpartum, her baby is four weeks old, Laura is no longer pregnant, and her baby is one week old! Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 39 of pregnancy -1 week postpartum -4 weeks postpartum -4-week-old baby -1-week-old baby -Giving birth to a breech baby via planned c-section -Breastfeeding colostrum to your newborn -Having high blood pressure postpartum (preeclampsia) -Newborn baby having trouble sleeping at night -What to do when your newborn has reflux -Getting a SNOO crib for your baby -Using a hands-free breast pump This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Throwback," Shanna tells the story of the time in high school when she devised an elaborate plan to ask a boy she had a crush on to the Sadie Hawkins dance. Also, Laura reports on a family outing that made her realize how much her life has changed by having two rambunctious young boys, and Shanna gives an update on her regrettable, 12-month-long contract at the kids' tumbling studio. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -What to do when your kid stops liking their extracurricular activities -How having energetic kids changes your life -How to respond when your child tells you they have a crush -Encouraging your kids' creativity in unexpected ways -The importance of mom friends and community This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura reports on the status of her breech baby, and Shanna discusses being on an emotional roller coast postpartum and talks about her newborn’s struggle to gain weight. In the segment “They Said What?!”, Shanna and Laura talk about what shocking and frustrating things people have said to them recently about pregnancy and breastfeeding, including questions about breastfeeding and more. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 36 weeks pregnant, Shanna is 1 week postpartum, and Shanna's newborn baby is one week old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 36 of pregnancy -Postpartum 1 week -1-week-old baby -Incontinence in pregnancy -Hormonal emotional swings postpartum -Newborn losing weight and not gaining weight -Difficulty breastfeeding a newborn This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s special segment, “Gripe Water,” Shanna and Laura take umbrage with certain mom shamers who need to lay the eff off. Also, Laura talks about her baby’s first cold and his six-month checkup, and Shanna has an exciting announcement about her baby’s development. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is seven months old, and Laura’s baby is six months old. | This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-58/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "OMG I'm Freaking Out!" Shanna and Laura reveal the current parenting dilemmas that have their hair standing on end, including the topics of lying, smartphones, psychic abilities and more! Also, Shanna reports on the surprising way she spent her Mother's Day, and Laura talks about why she spontaneously chose to chaperone her 5-year-old's field trip to the farm. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Mother's Day -Being a softball mom -Landscaping and gardening -Chaperoning field trips -Visiting Underwood Farms -How white lies can be convenient for parents -What age should I get a smartphone for my kid? -Suspecting your child is psychic and can read your mind -Competing with other parents to see your kid's performance -Developing family and neighbor community as a parent This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment “Mom Confessions,” Laura and Shanna divulge their recent embarrassing and hilarious parenting moves, including a donut shop trip gone sideways, a Star Wars day gone awry, and more! Also, Laura reports on a revelation she had during a family outing to the beach, and Shanna decides to "let it go" when checking in on her kids' new summer camp. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Going to the beach with kids -Mom anxiety -Kids summer camp -Frozen Jr. -Moms admitting to embarrassing things they've done with their kids -Public wading pools for kids -Best above-ground swimming pools for kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment, “Today I Learned,” Laura and Shanna share some surprising pregnancy- and baby-related things they have learned recently, including a birth ritual that may leave some fathers-to-be clutching their family jewels. Also, Laura reports on her efforts to wean her baby from the SNOO Smart Sleeper bassinet, and Shanna discusses her first date night with her husband since she gave birth. Finally, the new moms reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 14 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 10 weeks old. | This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-42/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, in the special segment “Internet Insanity,” Laura and Shanna discuss extreme online parenting groups and ghastly ghost sightings. Also, Laura talks about the staycation she had with her baby, and Shanna describes how her baby showed off for the pediatrician at her six-month checkup. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 26 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 22 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-54/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the new segment “Never Have I Ever: Parenting Edition,” Laura and Shanna share hilarious incidents they never thought they would experience until they became parents. Also, Shanna discusses her baby’s new toy-smacking skills, and Laura talks about the ups and downs of being home alone with her baby all day. Finally, the new moms reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is ten weeks old, and Laura’s baby is six weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-38/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura reports on having a breech baby and whether her doctor is concerned about it at this point, and Shanna discusses getting weekly nonstress tests to check her baby's heart rate. Also, in the special segment “What I Googled This Week,” the moms-to-be divulge the pregnancy-related topics they asked the Internet about recently, including the topics of turning a breech baby, what to do with a newborn and more. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 33 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 37 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 33 of pregnancy -Week 37 of pregnancy -Starting your maternity leave -Nesting and getting the house and nursery ready before baby arrives -Getting non-stress tests at the perinatologist -When to be concerned about your baby being breech -Methods for turning breech babies before their due date -Feeling unprepared to care for a newborn -Sleeping difficulty in the third trimester -Taking early maternity leave before your due date This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Internet Insanity," Laura and Shanna dive into a mysterious company that sells breast pumps online and their bizarre social-media marketing strategy. Also, Laura reports on her 3-year-old's back-to-school meltdowns, and Shanna recounts her own mom meltdown that recently happened in a very public place. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -The challenges of sending your kids back to school -When your preschooler doesn't want to go to school -Sibling jealousy about lack of fairness -Having embarrassing parenting moments in public -Why we shouldn't judge other moms -Taking a road trip with kids -Shady companies selling baby and parenting products -Is MomCozy a legit company? -How to fix plantar fasciitis This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna’s delivery day is four days away, and she discusses the thoughts and emotions she's having about being so close to meeting her new daughter. Also, Laura talks about her recent visit to the pregnancy chiropractor to help with her symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) pain and attending a childcare and breastfeeding class. Also, in the special segment “Checkin’ the Inbox,” the moms-to-be answer listener questions about what they plan to do with the podcast after giving birth. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 34 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 38 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 34 of pregnancy -Week 38 of pregnancy -Going to a pregnancy and infant chiropractor during pregnancy -Symphysis pubis dysfunction (SPD) pain during pregnancy -Taking a childcare and breastfeeding class in the third trimester -The thoughts, emotions and fears in the days before giving birth -What happens when your water breaks -What Shanna and Laura will do with the podcast after giving birth -Managing making a podcast while working and being a parent -Renting maternity clothes for special events -Spending time with your older child before giving birth to your new child This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "OMG I'm Freaking Out!," Shanna and Laura reveal the current parenting dilemmas that have their hair standing on end, diving into the topics of night terrors, YouTube tutorials and more. Also, Shanna reports on a family trip that went much differently than she had expected, and Laura discusses her attempt to have a relaxing week. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Taking a weekend trip with your kids -Taking care of pets and kids -When your child has night terrors -Trying to teach your kids new skills This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Throwback," Laura reflects on sibling relationships as she recounts the time in 7th grade when she ran for student council and her brother became her political fixer. Also, Shanna reports on all the mishaps at the elaborate escape-room birthday party that she threw for her daughter, and Laura discusses the unexpected challenge that sprung upon her family this week. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Handling unexpected challenges when you're a parent -Planning an escape-room birthday party for your kid -Reflecting on memories from middle school -Ice skating with your young kids -Best kids' party favors This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura discusses her attempt at sleep training her five-month-old baby using the Taking Cara Babies method, and Shanna talks about troubleshooting her baby’s early-morning wakings. In this week’s special segment, “They Said What?”, the new moms reveal the shocking and/or unusual things that people have said to them lately. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 27 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 23 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-55/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Why Is My Kid Crying," Shanna and Laura analyze the things that have caused their little ones to melt down recently, including unexpectedly big feelings at pool parties, school fundraising events and more! Also, Shanna reports on her family's last-minute St. Patrick's Day celebration, and Laura talks about attending a local event that captured the heart of her five-year-old. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -St. Patrick's Day traditions with kids -Leprechaun traps -Cherry blossom festival -Fundraising for school events -Pool parties -Ads targeted at kids -Sensitive children -When your kid has high blood pressure This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna talks about learning to understand her baby’s personality, and Laura discusses her baby’s struggles with the four-month sleep regression. Also, things get wacky in the segment “Internet Insanity,” in which they discuss what’s going down online in the world of parenting. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 19 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 15 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-47/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s special segment “Big Topic,” Laura discusses her journey of trying to conceive, including the details of her methodical approach to getting pregnant and the product she believes helped her get pregnant quickly. Also, Shanna discusses announcing her pregnancy on social media, and Laura talks about getting her home ready for her new baby by nesting. The moms-to-be also reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 19 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 23 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 19 of pregnancy -Week 23 of pregnancy -Second trimester -Announcing pregnancy -Nesting -Getting home ready for new baby -Trying to conceive -Tracking menstrual cycle and ovulation -Baby names -Maternity bras This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura introduce the brand-new special segment "Would You Rather: Parenting Edition," in which they present hilarious sets of hypothetical situations from their own lives and listeners' lives and then discuss which choices they would rather make. Also, Laura reports on her family's stay in Long Beach when they evacuated Los Angeles due to the wildfires, and Shanna discusses her efforts to maintain stability for her kids during the wildfire week. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Evacuating for the Los Angeles wildfires -Parenting during the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires -Difficult choices you have to make as a parent -The hilarious and questionable things you do as a mom -Dig It play space in Torrance -Pour painting class at kids' art studio This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna talks about her upcoming baby sprinkle, and Laura reports on clearing out her non-maternity clothes. Also, in the special segment “Internet Insanity,” they discuss the wild and wacky things going down online in the world of pregnancy, including unusual beliefs about the effect of too much tickling during pregnancy, decorating pregnant bellies, gender reveals gone wrong, and Halloween costumes for pregnant people. The moms-to-be also reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 24 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 28 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 24 of pregnancy -Week 28 of pregnancy -Second trimester -Third trimester -Baby showers -Baby sprinkles -Pregnancy glucose test -Maternity jeans -Pregnant belly painting -Pregnancy Halloween costumes -Gender reveal party gone wrong -Giving urine samples during pregnancy -Pubic symphysis pain This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Today I Learned," Laura and Shanna discuss the fascinating or unusual things they have learned recently, including some "super" facts about nipples, nursing in the wild and more! Also, Laura reports on her 6-year-old's surprising symptom from an otherwise mild virus, and Shanna describes a dinnertime activity she created to celebrate her kids' positive qualities. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Slapped cheek syndrome -Recognizing your kids' positive qualities -Supernumerary nipples -Elephant seals' nursing habits -Spending one-on-one time with your child -The joy of having spontaneous get-togethers This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In another installment of the segment "Internet Insanity," Shanna and Laura take a deep dive into the confounding world of Skibidi Toilet, including its origins, its hold on Gen Alpha and the moral panic surrounding its existence. Also, Shanna reports on the questionable thing her daughter's school did without parental consent, and Laura checks in on her 5-year-old's first week of Kindergarten. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Back to school -Is it okay for schools to collect biometric data from students? -First day of kindergarten -What is Skibidi toilet? -Is it okay for my kid to watch Skibidi Toilet? -When our kids are exposed to internet memes -Taking time to do something for yourself when you're a mom -An excellent and funny kids book This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna go head-to-head in another exciting round of trivia in the special segment “Stump the New Mom,” where they discover just how much money it will cost to raise their babies to adulthood. Also, Shanna talks about bringing her eight-month-old daughter to an important doctor’s appointment, and Laura discusses her first day away from her seven-month-old son. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is eight months and three weeks old, and Laura’s baby is seven months and three weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-65/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna come to you in real time to check in during the wildfires in Los Angeles. They provide updates about how they are doing during their city's crisis and have an insightful conversation with Gia Gambaro Blount, a local child development expert and parenting coach. about parenting during and after emergencies. Gia is a highly-regarded parenting expert in one of the areas that are being hit hardest by the devastation - Pasadena and Altadena - and she provides wisdom that not only comes from her years of expertise in child development but also as a parent who lives in the area and is personally affected by it as well. Important Links: -Our list of resources for victims of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires -Our list of how to help and donate to support victims of the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires -Gia Gambaro Blount's Instagram - Follow Gia to get daily advice and wisdom about parenting through crisis (and more) -Gia Gambaro Blount's Website -Big Fat Positive's Facebook Community Group - A supportive community that has shown compassion for and interest in helping parents and families in need at this time (plus ongoing conversations and support about parenting in general Topics Discussed in This Episode: -How the 2025 Los Angeles wildfires are affecting parents -How to parent your child during a crisis -Advice from a local parenting expert who is actively helping parents and families navigate this crisis -How to handle emergencies when you're a parent -How to talk to your child about catastrophic events -How to help your child process trauma after the emergency is over -How to help victims of the Los Angeles fires This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Visit our website. Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna reports on visiting her OBGYN and feeling anxious about her second trimester screening, and Laura talks about dealing with a tragedy while pregnant. In the special segment "Internet Insanity," things get wacky as Shanna and Laura discuss what’s going down in the online baby forums - hormones and husbands and dogs, oh my! Finally, the moms-to-be divulge their highs and lows (BFPs and BFNs) this week. Laura is 11 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 15 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 11 of pregnancy -Week 15 of pregnancy -OBGYN appointments -Second trimester screening -Baby names -Death of a friend -Online pregnancy forums -Husband being annoying during pregnancy -Dogs knowing you're pregnant -Alcohol and pregnancy -Mocktails -Pregnancy Nausea This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura discuss life with babies and pets. They also report on taking their babies on adventures outside of the house. Also, in the special segment, “What I Googled This Week,” Laura and Shanna reveal the funny and embarrassing things they asked the internet recently, including a very pressing question about losing baby weight. Finally, the new moms reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 13 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is nine weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-41/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment “Stump the Moms,” Shanna and Laura grill each other with amusing and educational trivia questions involving surprising facts about Disney theme parks and the energy required to sustain a pregnancy. Also, Shanna reports on hosting a group play date that took a turn she never saw coming, and Laura discusses the big emotions her 3-year-old felt after experiencing a complicated social interaction. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Playdates -When your child experiences social rejection -How much energy does it take to sustain a pregnancy? -How many calories does a pregnant person use to create a baby? -Weird and surprising facts about Disney theme parks This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Never Have I Ever: Parenting Edition," Laura and Shanna share the surprising and hilarious things they never thought they would do before they had kids, including cleaning up bizarre messes, doing odd things in public and more! Also, Shanna reports on going on a one-on-one date with her 5-year-old, and Laura talks about creating a visual calendar for her kids. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Taking your child on a one-on-one date -Creating a visual calendar for your kids to show the daily schedule -Dealing with kids' hangnails -Kids playing with their food -Hacking Dance Dance Revolution -Cleaning up massive messes that your kids made -Sibling relationships -Toddler gymnastics class This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment “What I Googled This Week,” Laura and Shanna divulge the embarrassing pregnancy issues they asked the internet about, including questions about indigestion during pregnancy and whether babies cry in the womb. Also Shanna talks about adjusting to her new body and pregnant belly, and Laura reports on her 20-week anatomy scan. The moms-to-be also reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 20 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 24 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 20 of pregnancy -Week 24 of pregnancy -Size of your baby bump -Maternity clothes -20 week anatomy scan -Pregnancy ultrasound -Indigestion, acid reflux, burping during pregnancy -Do babies cry in the womb? -Bending over while pregnant -Mothers as makers of death article This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna reports on how pregnancy has affected her appetite, and Laura discusses being at the tail-end of the first trimester. Also, in the special segment "Internet Insanity," things get wacky as Shanna and Laura discuss what’s going down in the online baby forums, including fake pregnancy tests, old wives' tales and and more! Finally, the moms-to-be divulge their highs and lows (BFPs and BFNs) this week. Laura is 13 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 17 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 13 of pregnancy -Week 17 of pregnancy -Telling work you are pregnant -Pregnancy affect on appetite -End of first trimester -Dying hair while pregnant -Fake pregnancy tests -Pregnancy old wives' tales -Being pregnant at work -Pregnancy heartburn This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2024 is coming to an end, and In the special segment "Year in Review," Laura and Shanna reflect on their last 12 months of parenting. As they look back on 2024, they share their biggest joys, challenges, realizations and more. Also, Laura reports on her 5-year-old's new interest in helping out in the kitchen, and Shanna talks about the challenges of planning for her kids' three-week winter break. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Thanksgiving with kids -Kids helping in the kitchen -Picky/selective eating in kids -Planning for your kids' winter break -When your partner helps lighten your mental load -Signing kids up for winter break day camp -2024 year in review -End-of-year self-reflection questions for parents This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Best friends Shanna and Laura got pregnant just a few weeks apart, and they are here to check in on their pregnancies, week by week and share everything they learn and experience along the way! This week, the Laura reports on getting her ultrasound upgraded by a few days, and Shanna discusses the results of her NIPT test. In the special segment "What I Googled This Week," they reveal the questions the asked the internet recently about pregnancy, diving into the topics of thigh chafing, nipple pain and more. Finally, they wrap things up by sharing their highs or lows (big fat positives or big fat negatives) of the week. Laura is 8 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 12 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 8 of pregnancy -Week 12 of pregnancy -Prenatal testing -NIPT -Ultrasounds -Pregnancy chafing -Pregnancy nipple pain -Nausea -Diclegis -Pet dogs This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s special segment, “Internet Insanity,” Shanna talks about a salacious-sounding beauty treatment she discovered online and Laura discusses the most adorable internet challenge ever. Also, Laura gives the inside scoop on nap training using the Taking Cara Babies method, and Shanna talks about quitting breastfeeding. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is eight months old, and Laura’s baby is seven months old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-62/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura reveals the sex of her baby and shares the results of her noninvasive prenatal test (NIPT), and Shanna talks about morning sickness as well as celebrating her birthday while pregnant and how she feels about being a "geriatric" mom. In the special segment "Today I Learned," the moms-to-be discuss fun and unusual pregnancy facts they learned recently, diving into the topics of fetal body hair, Disneyland and more. Finally, they divulge their highs and lows (BFPs and BFNs) this week. Laura is 10 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 14 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed this week: -Week 10 of pregnancy -Week 14 of pregnancy -Gender reveal -Baby sex -Noninvasive prenatal testing (NIPT) -Morning sickness -Pregnancy nausea -Food aversions -Turning 40 -Geriatric pregnancy / geriatric mom -Advanced maternal age -Lenugo -Fetal body hair -Disneyland while pregnant -Telling people about pregnancy -Pregnancy nausea -Pregnancy and alcohol -Pregnancy restrictions This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Today I Learned," Shanna and Laura discuss fascinating facts they’ve recently learned about pregnancy and parenting, diving into the topic of uterine transplants and answering the question, “why do I want to eat my baby?” Also, Laura gives an update on week one with her newborn and talks about how long feedings take over night, and Shanna talks about the mom guilt she is feeling because of her ongoing difficulty with breastfeeding and her newborn's physical discomfort. Finally, the new moms reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is five weeks old, and Laura’s baby is one week old. Topics discussed in this episode: -5-week-old baby -1-week-old baby -What overnight feedings with a newborn entail -Managing high blood pressure postpartum -Difficulty breastfeeding and cutting foods out of your diet when breastfeeding -Newborn not sleeping well at night -Trying to use the Windi on your newborn to relieve trapped gas -Feeling mom guilt -What to do when your newborn has reflux -A woman who had a uterus transplant and had a baby -Cute aggression -Using lanolin nipple cream -Getting a SNOO crib for your baby This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna reports on her struggle to produce enough breastmilk to help her newborn gain weight, and Laura discusses decorating her baby’s nursery and sustaining an unexpected injury. In this week’s special segment, “What I Googled This Week,” the moms-to-be divulge the pregnancy-related topics they asked the Internet about recently, diving into the topics of using traditional Chinese medicine to try to turn a breech baby, experiencing discomfort while recovering from a c-section and more! Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 37 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is two weeks postpartum and her baby is two weeks old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 37 of pregnancy -2 weeks postpartum -2-week-old baby -Newborn baby not gaining weight -Breastfeeding struggles -Using galactagogues to increase breastmilk -Having a unicornuate uterus -Wondering why your baby is stuck in the breech position -Decorating your baby's nursery -Moxibustion -C-section recovery and c-section scars -Great British Baking Show -Happiest Baby on the Block streaming video about soothing your baby in the fourth trimester This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s special segment, “They Said What?!”, Laura and Shanna divulge the weird, offensive and mom-shamey things people have said to them lately. Also, Laura talks about her most challenging week ever since having her son, and Shanna reports on her daughter’s eight-month checkup at the pediatrician. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is eight months and one week old, and Laura’s baby is seven months and one week old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-63/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Stump the Mom," Laura and Shanna grill each other with amusing and educational trivia questions involving surprising facts about family-favorite holiday movies, treats and toys! Also, Laura reports on what life has been like with her mom, aka Grandma Susan, living next door, and Shanna talks about diving into birthday party planning for her kindergartener. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -What is it like to live next door to your mom when you have kids? -Relationship between small children and their grandparents -Planning your kid's birthday party -Holiday trivia questions relevant to moms and families -Classic kids' toys -Extracurricular activities for your kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura divulge the embarrassing parenting moves they’ve made lately in the special segment, “Mom Confessions.” Also, Laura reports on her baby’s latest motor development, and Shanna talks about how quitting breastfeeding has taken a toll on her nerves. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is eight months and two weeks old, and Laura’s baby is seven months and two weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-64/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna reports on the shocking event that complicated her daughter's sixth birthday party, and Laura talks about getting a mammogram while breastfeeding. Also, in the special segment "Why Is My Kid Crying," Laura and Shanna thoughtfully dissect the seemingly mundane situations that have caused their little ones to melt down recently, including big feelings at Whole Foods, the frozen yogurt shop and more. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Throwing a birthday party for your 6 year old -Handling your pet's medical issues -Getting a mammogram while breastfeeding -When your kids have big feelings -Understanding why your kids are crying about seemingly insignificant things This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Checkin' the Inbox," Shanna and Laura answer listener questions about strategies for keeping your mom-life organized, handling nudity in front of your kids, discussing your child's development with strangers and more. Also, Laura talks about feeling overwhelmed by managing her parenting, work and home life, and Shanna discusses what happened when she said "yes" to her 5-year-old's surprising idea for a play date. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Feeling overwhelmed as a mom -Juggling parenting, work and home life -Setting up fun play dates for your kids -What apps are good for organizing your mom-life -How do you talk to strangers about your child's development -When should you stop being naked in front of your kids -Identifying where you have confidence as a parent -The Moth story slam -Using cookie cutters to make kids' dinner fun This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura reports on going to her nuchal translucency (NT) scan and seeing fetal movement during the ultrasound, and Shanna discusses how her pregnant belly “popped” so much earlier than it did in her first pregnancy. In the special segment, “OMG I’m Freaking Out!” the moms-to-be discuss what pregnancy related issues they have been worrying about recently, including revealing pregnancy to employers and whether it's possible to love your second baby as much as the first. Finally, they divulge their highs and lows (BFPs and BFNs) this week. Laura is 12 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 16 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 12 of pregnancy -Week 16 of pregnancy -Nuchal translucency (NT) scan -Fetal movement -Pregnant belly popping -Telling work about pregnancy -Will I love my second baby as much as my first? -Maternity leave -Pregnancy and pineapple This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "OMG I'm Freaking Out!" Shanna finds herself contemplating the apocalypse when she watches one of her kids' favorite shows, and Laura gets the willies when she imagines the upcoming phase in her kids' dental journey. Also, Laura reports on the spontaneous adventure she took with her 3-year-old, and Shanna reluctantly admits how she has backtracked on her resolve to simplify her family's life. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Going on spontaneous adventures with your kid -Visiting the National History Museum in Los Angeles -Should I sign my kids up for extracurricular activities? -Worrying about the apocalypse when you're a mom -The kids show Colossal Questions -Handling overwhelm when you are a mom -Ideas for getting your kid to take antibiotics when they hate the taste This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna talk baby genes, newborn screening, NIPTs and more with special guest Susan Winter, who is not only a pediatric geneticist but also Laura’s mom! Also, Laura discusses getting fancy for a baby photo shoot, and Shanna disturbs everyone with talk of rodents. Shanna’s baby is seven weeks old, and Laura’s baby is three weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-35/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Laura marvels at two of her baby’s new accomplishments, while Shanna bemoans her baby’s experience with the four-month sleep regression. Next, the new moms play a hilarious round of “Never Have I Ever: Parenting Edition,” where they find themselves in surprising situations they never would have expected. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 16 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 12 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-44/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Dear Past Me," Laura and Shanna turn back time and give pregnancy and parenting advice to their past selves, including words of wisdom about creating friendships, doing bedtime routines, committing to extracurricular activities and more! Also, Laura reports on her 5-year-old's last week of school, and Shanna reports on the ironic event that almost ruined her kids' first week of summer camp. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Summer break -Summer camp -Swimmer's ear -Tips for giving kids eardrops -Developing friendships with other parents -Having separate streaming accounts for your kids -Committing to extracurricular activities for your kids -How to do bedtime with both parents -Taking first and last day of school photos -Adopting a kitten This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Throwback," Shanna turns back time to recount the story of the first time she gave birth and all the ways it turned out to be different from how she'd expected it to be. Also, Laura talks about introducing her 6-year-old to stop-motion animation, and Shanna reports on her last-minute scramble to plan an elaborate birthday party for her almost 9-year-old. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Planning an escape room birthday party for your kid -Teaching your kids stop-motion animation -Shanna's unplanned C-section birth story -When your birth doesn't go as planned -Moms supporting victims of the Los Angeles fires -Setting boundaries for your kids' extracurricular activities -Joining a book club This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Laura gives an update on her baby’s naps, and Shanna reveals some surprising news about her baby’s childcare. Also, Laura and Shanna chat with pediatrician Dr. Robert Hamilton, author of the book “Seven Secrets of the Newborn,” about how to quickly calm a crying baby and more. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 18 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 14 weeks old. *This interview was recorded in April 2019, over a year before Dr. Hamilton’s involvement in America’s Frontline Doctors, and we do not endorse or support that group. This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-46/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Gripe Water," Shanna and Laura share the hilariously petty parenting problems that have been bothering them lately, diving into parenting jealousy, bedtime books and more! Also, Shanna reports on the newest temporary additions to her family, and Laura talks about choosing to celebrate her birthday unconventionally. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Fostering kittens when you have kids -Going to Disneyland with your family -Bluey credits and autoplay -Feeling jealousy and FOMO as a parent -Frustrating kids' books -Reading chapter books to your kids before bed -5-year-old doing wordplay and taking words literally -Frying cheese as a snack for your kids -Finding a snack that your picky eater likes This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Today I Learned," Laura and Shanna discuss the fascinating or unusual things they have learned recently, including a historical parenting choice that resonates today, a surprising weeklong break that some schools in the U.S. take and more. Also, Laura reports on leaving her kids for two nights for the first time ever, and Shanna talks about her 5-year-old's recent class presentation. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Going out of town without your kids for the first time -What will happen to my milk supply if I go out of town without my nursing child? -Is walking pneumonia going around? -Parenting when you and your partner are sick at the same time -Are cats affected by having kids in the home? -What is the history of baby leashes? -What is Ski Week at schools? -When toddlers become queens -Do I need to get my tonsils out? -Car seat buckle helper This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment “OMG I’m Freaking Out,” Laura reports on her worries about baby kick counts, and Shanna admits her astrological anxieties. Also, Laura checks in about managing work while being in the third trimester, and Shanna reports on all the people who have been giving her unsolicited opinions on her pregnancy. Finally, the moms-to-be reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 30 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 34 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 30 of pregnancy -Week 34 of pregnancy -Managing work while you're in your third trimester -Going to the Stitches SoCal convention -Having difficulty breathing during the third trimester -The offensive things people say when you're pregnant -Baby's astrological sign -Baby kick counts -Staying hydrated during pregnancy -Pregnancy cravings This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s special segment “Checkin’ the Inbox,” Laura and Shanna answer listener questions about room sharing with cats and working from home with a baby. Also, Shanna talks about introducing formula into her baby’s diet and creating a “Yes” space for her increasingly mobile daughter, and Laura describes her first out-of-town trip with her son. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 23 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 19 weeks old. | This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-51/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura reports on her pregnancy nausea becoming associated with one of her favorite pastimes, and Shanna talks about telling her 2.5-year-old daughter that she is going to be a big sister. Also, in the new special segment "Stump the Preggo," Shanna and Laura quiz each other on fascinating pregnancy-related trivia, including the topics of blood volume during pregnancy, which country reports the highest rate of twins and more! Finally, the moms-to-be also reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 18 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 22 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 18 of pregnancy -Week 22 of pregnancy -Second trimester -Pregnancy immune system -Pregnancy nausea -Spinning wool -How to tell your toddler about your pregnancy -Preparing your child for a second baby -Pregnancy trivia -Blood volume increase -Time spent in labor -Twins This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura interview Emily Oster, economist and author of the new book Cribsheet: A Data-Driven Guide to Better, More Relaxed Parenting, from Birth to Preschool, and they talk about how new parents can use the results of scientific research to guide their parenting decisions on topics such as breastfeeding, sleep training and more. Also, Shanna discusses the upcoming end of her maternity leave, and Laura recounts a remarkable day and night with her baby. Finally, the new moms reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 15 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 11 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-43/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura discuss sleep training, and Shanna describes her plan for getting her baby to sleep through the night. Laura talks about her baby’s four-month checkup and gives an update about his sleep regression. Also, in the special segment “Never Have I Ever - Parenting Edition,” the new moms share hilarious incidents they never thought they would experience until they became parents. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 21 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 17 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-49/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura discuss pregnancy cravings, headaches and placentas, and they make a discovery about one more thing their pregnancies have in common. Also, in the special segment "Today I Learned," the moms-to-be share fun and fascinating facts they have learned recently about their developing fetuses, diving into the topics of what babies can taste and what coats their skin while they are in utero. Finally, they share their highs and lows (BFPs and BFNs) for the week. Laura is 15 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 19 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 15 of pregnancy -Week 19 of pregnancy -Second trimester -Placentas -Anterior placenta -Headaches during pregnancy -Pregnancy cravings -Fetus taste buds -Can fetuses taste things in utero? -What is vernix? -Prenatal yoga -Prenatal pilates This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura reports on checking in with her OBGYN about her pubic symphysis pain, and Shanna talks about her third trimester pregnancy anxiety and shares a an unsettling prediction that her 2.5-year-old made about her pregnancy. Also, in honor of Thanksgiving, Shanna and Laura give up the pregnancy grousing and share things they are thankful for in a Gratitude Slam! Finally, they dive into the topics of lightning crotch and pilates when they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 27 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 31 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 27 of pregnancy -Week 31 of pregnancy -Pubic symphysis pain -Knitting baby items -Sick while pregnant -Pilates -Lightning crotch -Second trimester -Third trimester This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "What I Googled This Week," Shanna and Laura reveal the hilarious and embarrassing things they have asked the internet lately, diving into the topics of kids' candy, fire safety, the pelvic floor and more! Also, Shanna reports on the ups and downs of taking her kids to a theme park all by herself, and Laura talks about the surprising turn of events at her son's school art walk. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Summer break -Taking your kids to a theme park by yourself -Elementary school art walk -Young kids participating in theater and dance -Googling embarrassing questions as a parent -Family beach tips -Baby fever This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week’s episode, “Today I Learned,” Shanna and Laura discuss tiny babies and thirst while breastfeeding. Also, Shanna talks about her recent parenting nightmare, and Laura gives an update on her sleep-training journey using the Taking Cara Babies method. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 28 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 24 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-56/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Never Have I Ever: Parenting Edition," Shanna and Laura reveal funny and unexpected things they've never done before having kids, including giving out inappropriate items at a kids' party, using a children's couch for a risky DIY project and more! Also, Laura talks about living on the edge all week to see if her 4-year-old's cheek scratch will heal before his preschool picture day, and Shanna reports on her 6-year-old's big change that caused lots of tears. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 9 years old, and Laura’s kids are 6 years old and 4 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Preschool picture day -How quickly kids' injuries heal -Cutting your kids' bangs at home -Buying kids' sticker packs on Amazon and regretting it -Using the Nugget kids' couch in creative ways -Fixing a broken baby monitor -Parenting while having the flu This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura discuss sleep training, Marie Kondo-ing, baby numerology, baby modeling, baby shower registry must-haves, and more in this special 50th episode! The new moms start things off with their weekly check-ins, then move on to the special segment, “What I Googled This Week,” in which they admit the embarrassing parenting-related things they’ve asked the Internet lately, and then wrap things up with their BFPs and BFNs. Shanna’s baby is 22 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 18 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-50/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the new segment, “Checkin’ the Inbox,” Laura and Shanna answer a listener question about how to handle your baby's bodily functions and share a listener story about a shocking thing that a stranger recently did to her baby. Also, Shanna discusses getting her house and nursery ready for her new baby, and Laura checks in on making pregnancy friends. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 26 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 30 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 26 of pregnancy -Week 30 of pregnancy -Second trimester -Third trimester -Nesting -Pregnancy friends -Handling baby's sickness -Pregnancy massage -Huntington Gardens This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "Checkin' the Inbox," Shanna and Laura answer listener questions about how to handle toy tantrums, dressing dilemmas, clutter clear-outs and more! Also, Laura reports on her 5-year-old's first parkour class, and Shanna checks in on her daughters' new shady behavior. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Parkour classes for kids and toddlers -Kids playing jokes and pranks -5-year-old chewing their hair and shirt -Oral fixation and oral sensory seeking in children -What to do when your kids want to play with the same toy -Teaching your toddler to get dressed and undressed -Tandem nursing -TV recommendations for what to watch while parenting -Brain breaks -Chaperoning a field trip to the farm This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura and Shanna interview pediatric speech language pathologist and parent educator Ayelet Marinovich about how to interact with your baby in ways that benefit his or her development. Also, Shanna discusses her baby’s tumultuous week, and Laura talks about taking her baby to the doctor to test for hip dysplasia. Finally, the new moms reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 11 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is seven weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-39/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura introduce a new segment called “Mom Confessions,” in which they discuss the outrageous parenting moves they’ve made recently. Also, Shanna talks about dealing with her newly mobile baby, and Laura celebrates moving her baby to his own bedroom. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 25 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 21 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-53/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment “Stump the Preggo,” Shanna and Laura duel it out in a shocking and hilarious round of the pregnancy trivia game, diving into the topics of popular baby names, strange facts about newborns, the most babies born to one woman and more. Also, Shanna reports on how her third-trimester pregnancy cravings have gotten more intense, and Laura talks about the stress of meeting work deadlines while in the third trimester. Finally, the moms-to-be reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 31 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 35 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 31 of pregnancy -Week 35 of pregnancy -Having strong sugar cravings in the third trimester -Working while pregnant -Finding out your baby is breech -Popular baby names -Newborns are born without which body part? -Odd ways that animals nurse their young -The heaviest baby ever born -The most number of babies a woman has birthed in her lifetime -The number of babies born around the world per minute -Getting a new driver's license picture while pregnant -Pubic symphysis pain in pregnancy This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the new segment, “Mom Wins!”, Shanna and Laura tell funny stories about high-five-worthy parenting triumphs they’ve had recently. Also, Laura talks about her baby moving on up ... to the big boy bathtub! And Shanna discusses her decision to start weaning her baby from breastfeeding. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is seven months and two weeks old, and Laura’s baby is six months and two weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-60/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment “What I Googled This Week,” Shanna and Laura admit the pregnancy topics they recently asked the Internet about, including a question about the effects of caffeine consumption during pregnancy, and preparing for an emergency. Also, the Shanna reports on feeling emotional and overwhelmed during the third trimester, and Laura discusses the results of her pregnancy glucose test. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 25 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 29 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 25 of pregnancy -Week 29 of pregnancy -Second trimester -Third trimester -Pregnancy glucose test -Gestational diabetes -Size of 29 week fetus -Big emotions during pregnancy -Caffeine during pregnancy -Emily Oster's book "Expecting Better" -Home birth -Stand up comedy -Pregnancy hip pain -Difficulty sleeping during third trimester This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura talk to Dr. Nicole Rankins about what pregnant people can do to create an effective birth plan. Dr. Nicole is a board-certified, practicing OBGYN and the host of the podcast "All About Pregnancy & Birth," and she is the creator of online courses "The Birth Preparation Course" and "Make a Birth Plan the Right Way" to teach pregnant people how to feel comfortable and empowered to have the birth they deserve. Also, Shanna reports on her spring cleaning plan for her kids, and Laura talks about taking a spring break trip to the Palm Springs area. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Visit https://drnicolerankins.com/ for more information on Dr. Nicole Rankins and her online birth plan and childbirth education classes. Follow Dr. Nicole Rankins on Instagram. Topics discussed in this episode: -Surviving spring break with young kids -Spring cleaning -Encouraging kids to clean their rooms -Taking a vacation with young kids -How to make a good birth plan -When in pregnancy to create a birth plan -Doing a drop-off playdate -Taking photos underwater This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura interview nurse midwife and fellow pregnant person Teresa Keirns! Teresa answers some of their burning questions about giving birth as they dive into the topics of delivering babies, pregnancy nausea, c-sections, pooping during childbirth, baby gender vs. sex and more! Also Laura and Shanna both report on how to handle being sick during pregnancy, and Shanna talks about how her pregnancy is really starting to show. Finally, the moms-to-be also reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Laura is 17 weeks pregnant, and Shanna is 21 weeks pregnant. Topics discussed in this episode: -Week 17 of pregnancy -Week 21 of pregnancy -Second trimester -Being sick during pregnancy -Having a sinus infection during pregnancy -Can I take Sudafed while pregnant? -When does my pregnancy start to show? -Being in the "cute stage of pregnancy" -Nurse midwife interview -Delivering babies -Placenta previa -C-section vs. VBAC -Pooping during childbirth -Baby sex vs. gender -Ibuprofen and Tylenol during pregnancy -Maternity clothes -Pregnancy insomnia This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment “Mom Confessions,” Laura and Shanna share their recent embarrassing or hilarious parenting experiences, diving into the topics of desperate decisions and rough realizations. Also, Shanna reports on a surprising new development in her family's life, and Laura talks about how the roughhousing between her sons has intensified. Finally, the moms share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 6 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Different ways of moving on from grief -Family pets -Roughhousing between siblings -Mom confessions This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment "What the Hack?," Laura and Shanna share some of their favorite parenting tips and tricks, including ideas for encouraging your kids' independent play, helping your kids relax after having bad dreams and more. Also, Shanna reports on the newest addition to her family, and Laura talks about her 3-year-old's sudden swimming skills. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Exposing your kids to old-school technology -Encouraging your kids to write stories -When will my preschooler learn to swim? -Parenting tips and tricks -How to use a candle safely when you have kids -Using Magnatiles in a creative way -How to help kids get stickers off of sticker sheets -Encouraging your kids' independent play -Using task charts to motivate your kids -How to handle clothes your kids have outgrown -Ideas for handling your kids' bad dreams -Improving your backyard -Taking fun photos with your kids This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the special segment, "They Said What?!" Shanna and Laura discuss the funny, outrageous or offensive things people have said to them recently about parenting, including a scrutiny on screen time and a philosophy on floss; plus we dive into some surprising things WE said recently! Also, Shanna reports on her 5-year-old's infatuation with injuries, and Laura discusses how her family's recent vacation involved serious sleep struggles. Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5.5 and 8.5 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5.5 years old and 3.5 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -When your kids get lots of boo-boos -My kid uses too many band-aids -Taking your kids on an airplane -How to handle sleep when you travel with kids -Weird things kids say -Handling judgmental things people say about your parenting -Embarrassing things you say as a mom -Sharing interests with your kids -Great places to go in Portland with Kids -Hidden Creek Park West -Oregon Museum of Science and Industry This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shanna and Laura battle it out in another exciting round of “Stump the New Mom,” in which they quiz each other with pregnancy- and baby-related trivia questions! Also, Laura talks about going to a new “Mommy and Me” class, and Shanna discusses the dreaded moment that her baby rolled over in her Baby Merlin's Magic Sleepsuit. Finally, they reveal their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna’s baby is 24 weeks old, and Laura’s baby is 20 weeks old.| This episode's show notes - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/ep-52/ | Get social - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bfppodcast/ | Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/bigfatpositivepodcast/ | Email - contact@bigfatpositivepodcast.com | Our mom-tested ultimate baby registry list - https://bigfatpositivepodcast.com/registry/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laura reports on her three-year-old's progress with potty training, and Shanna tells the story of an unexpectedly dramatic dinner with her family. Also, in the special segment "Loose Ends," Shanna and Laura give updates about topics they've talked about previously, including behavior issues, Botox and more! Finally, they share their BFPs and BFNs for the week. Shanna's kids are 5 and 8 years old, and Laura’s kids are 5 years old and 3 years old. Topics discussed in this episode: -Potty training -When children start staying dry at night -Doing babysitting swaps with friends -Doing Botox for migraines -Handling your child's dysregulation and behavior challenges -Handling your child's fear of the dark -Selective eating and "safe" foods This episode's full show notes can be found here. Want to get in touch with Shanna and Laura? Send us an email and follow us on social! Instagram, Facebook or TikTok at @bfppodcast Join our Facebook community group for support and camaraderie on your parenting journey. Visit our website! Big Fat Positive: A Pregnancy and Parenting Journey is produced by Laura Birek, Shanna Micko and Steve Yager. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices