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Carol Ann Kates — former grocery store and deli owner/operator turned award-winning cookbook author of Secret Recipes from the Corner Market and Grocery Shopping Secrets — shares shop-floor wisdom and kitchen-tested tricks for reducing stress while grocery shopping and cooking in the postpartum months. Expect practical, empathy-first strategies for shorter store runs, faster meal prep, smart batching, and partner-friendly systems that protect recovery and preserve energy. What we cover Three top stress-reduction strategies for grocery shopping with a newborn or young infantHow to streamline meal planning and grocery lists postpartum to minimize decisions and time in-storePractical cooking tips for sleep-deprived parents: tools, batch-cooking methods, and quick, reliable recipesHow partners and support networks can share shopping and meal-prep responsibilities while respecting recovery and boundariesSelf-care mindset shifts and micro-routines around food and errands that preserve energy and reduce anxietyWho this episode is for New parents and caregivers in the first year postpartumPartners, family members, and friends who support new parentsDoulas, postpartum doulas, lactation consultants, and new-parent support groupsAnyone designing postpartum-friendly meal or grocery servicesGuest Carol Ann Kates — Former grocery store and deli owner/operator; award-winning cookbook author of Secret Recipes from the Corner Market and Grocery Shopping Secrets. Carol Ann brings practical retail and recipe experience to help new parents shop smarter, cook faster, and eat better during recovery. Website: https://www.carolannkates.com/IG: @carolannkatesFB: Carol Ann Kates' KitchenLinkedIn: Carol Ann KatesKey takeaways Keep shopping trips short and intentional: plan, prioritize, and use pickup/delivery when needed.Batch components (not always full meals) to enable flexible, fresh-feeling dinners with minimal effort.Use store- and kitchen-tested hacks from a grocery pro: shop by aisle, pick multi-use staples, and rely on time-saving equipment.Share visible systems for grocery and meal tasks so helpers know exactly what to do.Adopt a “nourishing enough” mindset and protect one small daily food ritual to sustain energy.Practical tips & hacks Grocery shopping with an infant Shop during quieter hours and bring a compact store kit for quick soothing (swaddle, pacifier, wipes).Use curbside pickup for heavy items or on high-stress days; alternate in-store trips between partners.Use an aisle-organized checklist (Carol Ann’s retail-tested method) to reduce backtracking and time in-store.Meal planning & grocery lists Keep a 7-item rotating plan with 3–4 go-to dinners and interchangeable sides.Maintain a reusable master shopping list by category; set recurring orders for staples.Prioritize multi-use ingredients like canned tomatoes, frozen vegetables, rotisserie chicken, grains, and ready-to-eat proteins.Cooking hacks for sleep-deprived parents Batch components: roast proteins and vegetables, make a big sauce, cook grains; recombine for quick meals.Favor one-pot and sheet-pan recipes for faster cleanup and consistent results.Must-have tools: Instant Pot/pressure cooker, slow cooker, good chef’s knife, and reliable storage containers.Keep 4–5 no-fail quick meals on rotation and a stash of “rescue” frozen meals or ready-to-eat options.Sharing responsibility with partners & networks Assign clear roles and use a shared task list so helpers know exactly what to pick up or prepare.Give specific requests to friends and family (time + item list) to increase follow-through.Respect recovery boundaries: protect rest and allow convenience options without guilt.Self-care mindset shifts & small routines Aim for “nourishing enough” instead of culinary perfection.Protect one small daily food ritual (a reliable breakfast or a calming cup of tea).Reframe help-seeking as a practical recovery strategy that benefits the whole family.Quick example meal plan (flexible) Breakfasts: overnight oats, yogurt + fruit, scrambled eggs + toastLunches: grain bowls, hearty salads, sandwiches + soupDinners: sheet-pan chicken + veg, pasta with jar sauce + protein, slow-cooker chili, stir-frySnacks & staples: hummus, cheese sticks, fruit, nut butter, frozen berriesResources & tools Carol Ann Kates’ books: Secret Recipes from the Corner Market; Grocery Shopping SecretsGrocery apps & services: Instacart, store curbside pickup, recurring online ordersMeal planning & shared lists: Google Keep, AnyList, OurGroceries, TodoistKitchen gear: Instant Pot, slow cooker, chef’s knife, baking sheet, storage containersEpisode action steps (for new parents) Save Carol Ann’s aisle-organized shopping checklist and use it for your next trip.Batch one component (protein or sauce) this week and freeze portions.Set one shared calendar slot for grocery runs and one for a weekly 20–30 minute planning huddle.Ask one person to take the next grocery trip with a clear list and time window.If this episode helped, subscribe for more postpartum survival strategies and practical parenting systems. Share your best grocery or meal-prep hack on Instagram and tag @newmomtalk.podcast — we’ll feature listener tips on a future episode.  postpartum meal planning, grocery shopping with newborn, baby grocery tips, meal prep for new parents, batch cooking for postpartum, stress-free grocery lists, Carol Ann Kates, Secret Recipes from the Corner Market, Grocery Shopping Secrets, sharing mental load, partner meal prep, postpartum self-care, quick recipes for sleep-deprived parents, curbside pickup for new parents, freezer meals for baby, nursing-friendly meals, Legendairy Milk (if relevant) Want a shorter social caption, an Instagram carousel, or a printable aisle-organized shopping checklist based on Carol Ann’s method? I can create those next. www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

If you're pregnant in California and you haven't looked into your maternity leave benefits yet — this episode is your sign. California has some of the most comprehensive maternity leave protections in the country, but the system is confusing, the deadlines are strict, and most moms don't find out what they were entitled to until it's too late. Mariela sits down with Shelly Yehuda, a maternity leave advocate who helps California women navigate the system so they can maximize every benefit, protect their job, and actually be present with their baby in those early weeks — without the financial stress hanging over them. This is practical, empowering, and honestly overdue. Every pregnant mama in California needs to hear this one. In This Episode, We Cover: 💛 Every benefit available to California moms on maternity leave — and the exact steps to make sure you're getting every dollar you're entitled to 💛 The most critical deadlines you need to know before you go out on leave — and what happens if you miss them 💛 How job protection works in California, what your employer is legally obligated to do, and what to do if you feel your position is being threatened while you're out 💛 Lesser-known programs, additional benefits, and employer negotiations that moms regularly leave on the table simply because they didn't know to ask 💛 What to do in the months before your due date to lock in your benefits, secure your position, and avoid any gaps in pay About Our Guest: Shelly Yehuda is a California maternity leave advocate who helps women navigate one of the most overwhelming systems a new mom can face. Her mission is simple: make a confusing process feel clear, manageable, and fully supportive — so moms can focus on what actually matters. She specializes in helping women maximize their benefits, protect their jobs, and go into leave feeling prepared and confident. Connect with Shelly Yehuda: Official Website: www.parentalleaveadvisors.comIG: @californiaparentalleaveEmail: [email protected] maternity leave, California maternity leave benefits, paid family leave California, SDI maternity leave, California EDD maternity, CFRA job protection, FMLA California, maternity leave deadlines California, how to apply for maternity leave California, maternity leave pay California, California pregnancy benefits, job protection during maternity leave, maternity leave advocate California, maximize maternity leave benefits, maternity leave tips California, pregnant in California rights, employer obligations maternity leave California, Shelly Yehuda maternity leave, maternity leave podcast, new mom financial planning www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

This episode is brought to you by Legendairy Milk. Use code NEWMOM15 at checkout to get 15% off She's Flowing. Join us for an honest, practical conversation with Courtney Boylan, founder of Le Lolo, who’s on a mission to beautify postpartum care. Courtney reframes postpartum self-care as more than quick fixes or Instagram-ready moments — it’s about dignity, functionality, and building sustainable routines that honor new parents’ needs. She shares design-minded solutions, mindset shifts, and real-life routines for parents juggling newborn care, limited sleep, and other responsibilities. What we cover A broader definition of postpartum self-care beyond “sleep when the baby sleeps”Cultural expectations that block sustainable postpartum recoveryPractical, non-negotiable self-care routines for busy new parentsHow partners, family, and healthcare providers can better support individualized postpartum needsSmall mindset shifts and daily practices to rebuild identity, confidence, and agencyThe design thinking behind Le Lolo’s products and why beauty + function matters in postpartum essentialsWho this episode is for New and expecting parentsPartners and family members supporting someone postpartumPostpartum care advocates, doulas, and cliniciansParents who want practical self-care strategies that actually fit real lifeGuest Courtney Boylan — Founder of Le Lolo; creator of thoughtfully designed, beautiful postpartum essentials inspired by her experience as a mom of three. Connect with Courtney Boylan: Official Website: https://wearelelolo.com/IG: @wearelelolo TikTok: @weareleloloKey takeaways Postpartum self-care is practical, individualized, and dignified — not just errands and baths.Design and aesthetics can improve how postpartum products are used and how parents feel while using them.Small, consistent routines (tailored to your life) beat idealized, unsustainable “self-care” strategies.Support systems—partners, family, clinicians—play a crucial role when they recognize and validate individual needs.Rebuilding a sense of self starts with small daily practices and permission to prioritize care.Giveaway We’re giving away a Le Lolo postpartum care set! To enter, answer the giveaway question in this episode and submit your response on Instagram: @newmomtalk.podcast. Winner announced on the show’s IG. Resources mentioned Le Lolo — postpartum essentials designed by Courtney BoylanLegendairy Milk — use code NEWMOM15 for 15% off She's FlowingSubscribe for more episodes about postpartum health and practical parenting. Follow @newmomtalk.podcast on Instagram to enter the giveaway and keep up with episode extras. postpartum self-care, postpartum essentials, Le Lolo, Courtney Boylan, postpartum products, postpartum recovery, new mom self-care, sustainable postpartum routines, partner support postpartum, postpartum mindset shifts, postpartum dignity, postpartum design, postpartum giveaway, Legendairy Milk, Legendairy Milk nursing supplements, Legendairy Milk prenatal products, Legendairy Milk postpartum supplements, nursing supplements, prenatal supplements, postpartum products, She's Flowing discount, NEWMOM15 www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

This episode is brought to you by Legendairy Milk. Use code NEWMOM15 at checkout to get 15% off She's Flowing. Aly Wente — fifth-generation winegrower and Chief Revenue Officer of Wente Family Vineyards — joins us to talk real strategies for reconciling a demanding career and a thriving family life. Drawing on leadership at America’s oldest continuously family-owned winery and a modern, sustainability-minded approach, Aly reframes the idea of “balance,” shares systems that actually work, and names the practical supports that help prevent burnout while preserving what matters most. What we cover Whether “balance” is realistic or needs reframing as priorities, rhythm, or boundariesHow to distinguish non-negotiable commitments from habits driven by guilt or expectationConcrete approaches to managing the mental and logistical load of career + householdBoundary-setting tactics for work and home that hold up under pressureHigh-impact systems, routines, and outside supports that make day-to-day life manageableWhere to start when you feel overwhelmed: small, sustainable first stepsWho this episode is for Working parents navigating career and caregiving responsibilitiesMoms returning to work or climbing the ladder while raising childrenPartners, managers, and HR leaders who support working familiesAnyone seeking practical systems to reduce stress and increase presence at work and homeAbout our Guest Aly Wente — Fifth-generation winegrower and Chief Revenue Officer, Wente Family Vineyards. Aly leads brand, hospitality, and customer experience strategy while honoring a 140+ year family legacy and applying a modern, sustainability-focused perspective to California wine. Connect with Aly Wente: Official Website: https://wentevineyards.com/IG: @wente & @alywenteonealKey takeaways Balance is often less about perfect equality and more about clarity of priorities, boundaries, and rhythms.Audit your commitments: identify what truly needs your time versus what can be delegated, delayed, or dropped.Share the mental load by naming tasks, assigning ownership, and using simple systems (calendars, shared lists, routines).Boundary-setting requires clear communication, predictable routines, and consistent follow-through — both at work and at home.Start with one small system (e.g., weekly planning session, shared family calendar, or a dedicated self-care appointment) and build from there.Outside supports (childcare, flexible work arrangements, professional networks) compound impact — ask for them early and often.Practical tips mentioned Run a weekly 20–30 minute family planning huddle to align priorities and shift logistic load.Batch work and family tasks into predictable blocks to reduce context switching.Use a shared digital calendar and task list so responsibilities are visible and transferable.Normalize asking for help and negotiate flexible solutions at work with specific proposals.Protect at least one non-negotiable recovery routine (sleep, movement, or a weekly reset) to reduce burnout risk.Resources mentioned Wente Family Vineyards — company and hospitality informationSuggested tools: shared calendars (Google Calendar, iCal), shared task apps (Todoist, Trello), family planning templatesSubscribe for more stories from working parents and leaders balancing career and family. Share your best practical tip for work–mom balance on Instagram and tag @newmomtalk.podcast — we may feature listener tips on a future episode. work mom balance, work–mom life balance, Aly Wente, Wente Family Vineyards, working parents, mom career balance, managing mental load, boundary setting for parents, family logistics systems, burnout prevention for moms, parental support strategies, sustainable routines for parents, shared family calendar, weekly family planning, flexible work for parents, leadership and parenting, winery leadership, California wine and family business, Legendairy Milk, Legendairy Milk nursing supplements, Legendairy Milk prenatal products, Legendairy Milk postpartum supplements, Legendairy Milk products, nursing supplements, prenatal supplements, postpartum products, She's Flowing discount, NEWMOM15 www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

This episode is brought to you by InspiraSpark — thanks to Shannon Davis and the Little Balance Box for supporting the show. Join us as Shannon Davis — mom, physical therapist, and inventor of the Little Balance Box — breaks down practical, research-informed ways parents can reduce the risk or impact of developmental delays at home. Shannon explains what “developmental delay” really means, reveals common baby gear and routines that can unintentionally hinder motor development, and walks through how the Little Balance Box was designed differently to support natural movement and balance. This episode is full of compassionate, actionable advice for caregivers who feel worried or guilty: how to shift your mindset from fear to advocacy, simple daily activities to do while waiting for specialist care, and ways to support both children and parents through early development challenges. What we cover: What developmental delay means and everyday baby gear that can interfere with developmentThe design goals behind the Little Balance Box and how it supports natural movementReframing parental guilt into empowered advocacy and practical next stepsWays the Little Balance Box supports entire families — not just kids with delaysImmediate, safe at-home strategies for families without immediate access to specialists or early-intervention servicesWho this episode is for: New and expecting parentsCaregivers and early-childhood educatorsPediatric therapists and cliniciansAnyone interested in practical, movement-based tools to support early motor developmentAbout Our Guest: Shannon Davis — Mom, licensed physical therapist, and inventor of the Little Balance Box (InspiraSpark) Connect with Blair Mohr: Official Website: https://inspiraspark.com/IG: @inspirasparkTikTok: @inspirasparkKey takeaways: Simple changes at home can protect and promote healthy motor milestones.Gear and positioning matter — some popular products can restrict movement and delay skills.Small, consistent play and balance activities build resilience and motor confidence.Parents can take meaningful, safe actions even before specialist evaluation.Tools designed with developmental principles can support the whole family.Resources mentioned: Little Balance Box — designed by Shannon Davis (InspiraSpark) (Note: This episode is sponsored by InspiraSpark.)IMPORTANT LINKS: Legendairy Milk: Use code NEWMOM15 at checkout to get 15% off She's Flowing. developmental delays, baby motor skills, early childhood development, Little Balance Box, Shannon Davis, InspiraSpark, at-home therapy, infant milestones, prevent developmental delay, parent advocacy, early intervention alternatives, pediatric physical therapy, baby gear and development, Legendairy milk, she's flowing, nursing, pumping, milk production, breastfeeding www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

This episode is brought to you by Legendairy Milk. Use code NEWMOM15 at checkout to get 15% off She's Flowing. You've fed the baby, done the laundry, remembered the pediatrician appointment, mentally scheduled tomorrow's daycare drop-off, and somehow still feel like you're forgetting something. Sound familiar? That's the mental load — and for new mothers, it rarely gets talked about the way it should. In this episode, Mariela sits down with Dr. Minisha Ghimire, physician in internal medicine and obesity medicine, and founder of Momkinz, to have an honest, eye-opening conversation about the invisible weight so many mothers carry — and what it's actually doing to their health. This one hits different. Whether you're in the thick of the newborn stage or years into motherhood and still feeling it — you'll want to listen to this. In This Episode, We Cover: 🧠 What the mental load actually is — and why it's so much deeper than just being busy or exhausted 🧠 Why new mothers so often become the "default parent" — and whether that's a choice or something that quietly happens over time 🧠 The real long-term impact of carrying the mental load on a mother's mental and physical health — from a physician's perspective 🧠 Why "just ask for help" doesn't work — and what kind of support actually moves the needle 🧠 Realistic things moms can do to lighten the load — plus the bigger systemic conversation we can't ignore About Our Guest: Dr. Minisha Ghimire is a physician training in internal medicine and obesity medicine, and the founder of Momkinz. She is a passionate advocate for postpartum mothers and believes that supporting moms goes far beyond the six-week checkup. Her work sits at the intersection of medicine and maternal wellness, and she brings both clinical insight and genuine compassion to every conversation about motherhood. Connect with Dr. Minisha Ghimire: Official Website: www.momkinz.comYouTube: @momkinzmental load of motherhood, new mom mental health, default parent, postpartum mental health, invisible labor motherhood, emotional labor moms, postpartum anxiety, mom burnout, maternal mental health podcast, postpartum support, what is the mental load, fourth trimester mental health, mom overwhelm, Dr. Minisha Ghimire, Momkinz, motherhood and mental health, postpartum physician, internal medicine postpartum, new mother support, breastfeeding, legendairy milk, nursing, pumping, milk production www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

If you've ever looked around your house at 7pm and felt completely defeated by the clutter, the to-do list, and the sheer volume of stuff that comes with raising little ones — this episode is for you. Mariela sits down with Blair Moht, mom of two boys and owner of The Organized Mommy Co., a professional organizing company built specifically for families. Blair's approach isn't about having a Pinterest-perfect home — it's about creating systems that actually work for real life, reducing the daily decision fatigue that quietly drains moms, and building habits that stick even when your schedule is packed and your energy is low. If you've ever thought "I'm just not an organized person" — Blair is about to change your mind. In This Episode, We Cover: 🏠 The most common ways disorganization shows up in family homes — and why it's not a personal failure 🏠 The foundational systems every household should have in place, and the best place to start when everything feels overwhelming 🏠 How to build habits that actually stick — even with young kids, a full schedule, and zero mental energy to spare 🏠 Small, realistic shifts families can make right now that have the biggest impact on daily stress and decision fatigue 🏠 The best tools, apps, and systems for busy families — and how to figure out which ones are actually worth your time About Our Guest: Blair Mohtris a mom of two boys and the owner of The Organized Mommy Co., a professional organizing company dedicated to helping families — especially moms — create better systems so they can love their home and feel less stressed in their spaces. Blair believes that an organized home isn't a luxury, it's a game changer for your mental health, your relationships, and your daily quality of life. Connect with Blair Mohr: Official Website: www.theorganizedmommyco.comIG: @theorganizedmommycoSave on course with code NEWMOMTALK https://www.theorganizedmommyco.com/the-organized-mommies-clubhome organization for moms, family organization systems, how to organize your home with kids, reducing mom stress at home, habit building for busy moms, decision fatigue moms, professional organizer for families, home systems for families, organized home tips, mom burnout home chaos, how to declutter with kids, family routine systems, organization apps for families, The Organized Mommy Co., Blair Moht, postpartum home organization, toddler home organization, minimizing household stress, family productivity systems, mom mental load home organization www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

Placenta encapsulation is one of those postpartum topics that gets a lot of raised eyebrows — but also a lot of passionate advocates. In this episode, we're getting into the what, the how, and the why behind turning your placenta into capsules, and whether it might be worth considering as part of your postpartum recovery plan. From the nutrients and hormones it contains to how it may support your mood, energy, and healing in those early weeks, this is the conversation that might just change how you think about what your body grew. What You'll Learn: Samantha breaks down exactly what placenta encapsulation is and how the process works from delivery to capsule. She covers the most commonly reported benefits — from mood and energy support to postpartum recovery — and dives into the specific nutrients and hormones in the placenta that may play a role. She also gets honest about who tends to be a great candidate for encapsulation, and when it might not be the right fit. About Our Guest:  Samantha — CEO, NuHealth Placenta Samantha supports new moms through postpartum recovery with education and placenta encapsulation services. She's passionate about helping women feel more like themselves again after birth. Connect with Samantha Davie Official Website: [email protected]: @nuhealth_placentaencapsulationTikTok: @nuhealth.placenta(213) 245-1497 placenta encapsulation benefits, what is placenta encapsulation, placenta pills postpartum, placenta encapsulation process, postpartum recovery tips, placenta hormones and nutrients, placenta encapsulation mood support, placenta encapsulation energy, postpartum healing, is placenta encapsulation safe, who should try placenta encapsulation, fourth trimester recovery, placenta encapsulation specialist, NuHealth Placenta www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

Postpartum doula support can be one of the most meaningful investments a family makes — but most people don't think about the cost, logistics, or timing until after the baby is already here. In this episode, we're breaking down everything you need to know to plan ahead: what postpartum doulas actually do (and how they differ from birth doulas), what it realistically costs, and the creative ways families are making it more accessible — from FSA/HSA dollars to baby registry funds to sliding scale packages. Kathryn walks us through the difference between a birth doula and a postpartum doula, what families can realistically expect to spend, and why this support is worth prioritizing in your birth budget — not saving for later. She also shares the creative ways families are making it work financially (think FSA/HSA funds and registry contributions), plus exactly when to start looking and what to ask when you're vetting someone for this role. About Our Guest Kathryn — Owner & Director, One Moon Doula Services Founded in 2013, One Moon is a boutique doula agency matching Southern California families with 30+ vetted postpartum doulas and newborn care specialists. onemoondoula.com Connect with Kathryn Keener Official website: https://onemoondoula.com/IG: @onemoondoulaYoutube: @onemoondoulapostpartum doula cost, what is a postpartum doula, postpartum support budget, newborn care specialist, birth doula vs postpartum doula, FSA HSA postpartum doula, postpartum doula registry fund, fourth trimester support, how to hire a postpartum doula, Southern California doula agency, when to book a postpartum doula, postpartum planning pregnancy www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

In this episode pediatric sleep consultant Meghan Kemna (former educator) breaks down the foundations of healthy sleep for babies and toddlers so families can move from exhausted and overwhelmed to confident and well-rested. We cover what a true sleep foundation looks like across the first few years, realistic expectations by age (newborn, 4–6 months, 6–12 months, toddler), and when to seek support. Meghan also explains the key elements of consistent routines—timing, environment, and cues—plus small, practical changes that produce big improvements, how sleep supports development and parental well‑being, and low-stress strategies for families with unpredictable schedules or multiple children. What you’ll learn Age-by-age sleep expectations and common red flags to watch forCore components of an effective sleep routine (timing, cues, environment)Simple tweaks that quickly improve nighttime and nap outcomesHow better sleep supports developmental milestones and parental mental healthLow-effort strategies for chaotic schedules and sibling householdsAbout Our Guest Meghan Kemna is a former educator turned pediatric sleep consultant on a mission to help families go from exhausted and overwhelmed to confident, rested, and sleeping through the night. She offers compassionate, evidence-informed guidance tailored to real family life. Connect with Meghan Kemna [email protected]: @meghan.sleepwise baby sleep foundations, toddler sleep tips, pediatric sleep consultant, infant sleep expectations, sleep routine for babies, newborn sleep guide, naps and nighttime sleep, sleep tips for multiple children, Meghan Kemna, how to improve baby sleep, sleep consultant, sleep training, baby sleep training, newborn sleep www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

In this episode Hennie Ng—specialist in resolving chronic pain and postpartum core & pelvic health—shares practical, compassionate strategies to help moms feel empowered, energized, and back in control of their bodies after birth. We unpack what “back in control” really means (shifting mindset from perfection to progress), how hormonal shifts, sleep loss, and healing affect energy, and simple, realistic steps to restore vitality without pressure or comparison. Hennie explains the complementary roles of movement, nourishment, and rest in rebuilding strength and confidence, offers actionable daily habits for physical and emotional support, and gives specific tips for reconnecting with your body even if your birth didn’t go as planned. What you’ll learn A mindset reframing for postpartum control: progress, boundaries, and self-compassion.How hormones, sleep deprivation, and recovery drain energy—and practical ways to restore it (small dietary shifts, strategic rest, gentle pacing).Movement guidelines that protect the pelvic floor and rebuild core strength without overexertion.Nourishment tips to support healing and steady energy, focused on simplicity and consistency.Daily habits and rituals (breathwork, micro-movements, realistic scheduling) that promote resilience and emotional wellbeing.Reconnection practices for mothers whose births were traumatic or unexpected, emphasizing safety and gradual embodiment.About our guest Hennie Ng helps women break free from chronic pain and postpartum core & pelvic health challenges so they can move, flourish, and build resilience. She blends clinical expertise with practical, parent-friendly strategies. Connect with Hennie Ng Official Website: www.womensphysiocoach.com & www.pelvichealthcoaching.comListen to the full episode for step-by-step guidance, subscribe for more maternal wellness conversations, and check the episode links for Hennie’s programs and handouts. postpartum recovery, postpartum energy, pelvic floor health, postpartum core, postpartum mindset, postpartum exercise, maternal wellness, Hennie Ng, postpartum nutrition, newborn fatigue, postpartum wellness, postpartum health, pelvic floor recovery www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

Mental health deserves a seat at the birth planning table. In this episode Maya McDaniel Bailey, MA, NCC, LPC — a perinatal mental health counselor specializing in trauma-informed care and mental health birth planning — explains why emotional preparation is as critical as physical preferences. Maya outlines common mental health considerations to address before labor, how providers can screen and support needs across pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, and practical proactive steps parents can take to reduce risk for postpartum mood and anxiety disorders. Learn how to build a mental-health informed birth plan that includes nervous system regulation strategies, crisis supports, continuity of care, and community resources so families feel safer, supported, and better prepared. Key Takeaways: Why mental health belongs in birth plans alongside physical preferencesCommon prenatal mental health considerations (history of mood/anxiety, trauma, stressors)Screening and supportive practices clinicians can use during pregnancy, labor, and postpartumProactive preparation: grounding, regulation tools, support mapping, relapse plansEssential resources to include: trusted contacts, crisis hotlines, therapist continuity, peer support, and contingency plansAbout the Guest Maya McDaniel Bailey, MA, NCC, LPC — licensed professional counselor focused on perinatal mental health, trauma-informed care, and mental health birth planning. Connect with Maya McDaniel Official Website: www.fromrain2rainbow.comIG: @maya_rain2rainbowYouTube: @mayathetherapistTikTok: @mayathetherapistSign up for her workshop Creativity to calm the storm: https://www.motherhood-supported.com/psychoeducation-workshop mental health birth plan, perinatal mental health, postpartum mood disorders prevention, mental health birth planning, trauma-informed birth, nervous system regulation pregnancy, perinatal counseling, postpartum anxiety resources, birth plan mental health checklist, continuity of care postpartum www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

New parent? Breastfeeding can feel simple and overwhelming at once. In this episode Jaimie Zaki — nurse, doula, IBCLC, and mom of five — breaks down the most common early breastfeeding mistakes that undermine latch, milk supply, and confidence. Jaimie explains how improper positioning and latch can sabotage feeding even when supply is sufficient, why early or frequent supplementation can derail breastfeeding progress, and how well-meaning advice from family or social media can cause harm. Learn the early warning signs of trouble, practical fixes you can try at home, and when to reach a lactation professional for hands-on help. Tune in for evidence-based tips, real-world examples, and encouragement to make confident feeding decisions from the intersection of information and intuition. Key Takeaways (brief): Top early mistakes that affect supply and latchHow positioning & latch matter even with good supplyRisks of early/frequent supplementation and alternativesNavigating misinformation and building supportive networksRed flags to watch for and when to seek an IBCLCAbout the Guest Jaimie Zaki — nurse, doula, IBCLC, host of the Breastfeeding with Confidence Podcast, and mom of five. Connect with Jaimie Zaki: Official Website: www.littlebearlactation.com/breastfeeding-academybreastfeeding mistakes, breastfeeding latch problems, low milk supply causes, breastfeeding supplementation risks, when to see a lactation consultant, IBCLC tips, breastfeeding support, breastfeeding for new parents, breastfeeding positioning, breastfeeding misinformation www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

In this episode, we dive deep into one of the most critical aspects of maternal health: hypertension and preeclampsia. Joining us is Fran Conti-Ramsden, an NHS Obstetrics and Gynaecology registrar and MRC-funded PhD fellow who is sitting at the fascinating intersection of clinical medicine and data science. Fran shares her expertise on why high blood pressure occurs during pregnancy, the "red flag" symptoms that often go unnoticed, and how she is using AI and real-world data to create a more equitable future for women’s healthcare. Whether you are currently expecting, planning a family, or interested in how technology is transforming the NHS, this conversation provides essential medical insights and a look at the cutting edge of FemTech. What We Cover in This Episode: The Root Causes: Understanding the biological triggers of pregnancy-induced hypertension.Red Flags: The specific warning signs—beyond just a headache—that require immediate medical attention.The Impact on Mom and Baby: How high blood pressure affects fetal development and maternal recovery in the postpartum "fourth trimester."Risk Reduction: Practical steps involving nutrition, lifestyle, and medical interventions to manage your risk.The Long-Term Picture: Why a history of preeclampsia matters for your cardiovascular health years down the road.Innovation in Women’s Health: How Fran is leveraging Natural Language Processing (NLP) and genomics to predict and improve pregnancy outcomes.Resources & Links: Download: Download the app here https://my.megi.ai/download/Support: Learn more about preeclampsia https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/frances-conti-ramsdenpreeclampsia symptoms, high blood pressure in pregnancy, gestational hypertension, maternal health, FemTech innovation, Women’s health AI, postpartum heart health, pregnancy complications, NHS clinical research, data science in healthcare, MRC clinical fellowship, personalized pregnancy care. www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom

In this episode, we dive into the often-unspoken experience of a motherhood identity crisis with Rebecca, an international life coach and host of the Ambitious and Balanced Working Moms podcast. Rebecca helps career-focused moms stop feeling overwhelmed and “not enough” so they can be present with their kids while still pursuing meaningful, ambitious careers. We explore what an identity crisis in motherhood really means, why it’s so common, and how the expectations of motherhood can clash with who we were before becoming moms. Rebecca shares the signs that a mom may be struggling with her sense of self and offers practical, compassionate guidance on how to reconnect with your identity—without guilt or pressure to “bounce back.” This conversation offers reassurance and actionable steps for moms who feel lost in the day-to-day of parenting and want to feel confident in who they are again. Through her inside-out approach to balance, Rebecca reminds us that redefining yourself in motherhood isn’t about losing who you were—it’s about evolving into who you’re becoming. About the Guest: Rebecca is an international life coach and podcast host who supports career-focused moms in creating balance, confidence, and fulfillment at work and at home. Through her coaching programs and podcast, Ambitious and Balanced Working Moms, she has helped thousands of parents feel empowered, present, and aligned with their goals. Connect with Rebecca Olson: Official Website: https://www.ambitiousandbalanced.com/daily-kickstartLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebolsonPodcast: https://www.rebeccaolsoncoaching.com/podcastmotherhood identity crisis, identity loss after becoming a mom, finding yourself in motherhood, motherhood and identity, working mom identity, mom burnout and identity, career and motherhood balance, feeling lost in motherhood, redefining yourself as a mom, postpartum identity changes, mental health for moms, overwhelmed working moms, mom life balance, ambitious working moms, reclaiming identity after kids www.NewMomTalk.com Buy Me A Coffee IG: @NewMomTalk.Podcast YouTube: @NewMomTalk [email protected] Interested in being a guest? Shoot us an email! - best parenting podcast - best new mom podcast - best podcasts for new moms - best pregnancy podcast - best podcast for expecting moms - best podcast for moms - best podcast for postpartum - best prenatal podcast - best postnatal podcast - best podcast for postnatal moms - best podcast for pregnancy moms - new mom  - expecting mom - first time mom