Previa Alliance

We all have people in our lives who are the “strong ones, got it together, juggling it all, working so hard, and always says they are “fine”. But why do we wait for a crisis to check on those people when in reality we need to start checking on them now?

Join Sarah and Whitney as they explore the silent struggles of those who appear self-reliant. They share why trusting your instincts and reaching out with simple gestures can provide immense relief. This episode is a call to check in on those in our circle and to check in with yourself if you need to be checked in on.

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Join Sarah and Whitney as they lay bare their own experiences with maternal mental health issues, from the inconsistencies in medical advice to the crushing financial barriers imposed by high deductibles. In this episode, they dive into the glaring gaps in maternal mental health care, including the lack of mandatory training for healthcare providers and the absence of federal mandates for mental health screenings. This is more than just a discussion; it's a call to action to recognize maternal mental health as a vital component of healthcare and to support one another in this crucial endeavor.

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Have you ever wondered how to navigate the emotional and physical roller coaster of pregnancy and postpartum life? Join Sarah and Whitney as they share lessons from their own journeys, revealing anxieties about taking medications, pressures from social media, setting clear hospital boundaries, and the importance of sleep. Balancing the joys and challenges of the postpartum period can be overwhelming, and we’re here to help you through it.

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How do you keep it all together when life's curveballs seem never-ending? Join us as we unravel practical strategies for managing overwhelming stress and release those pent-up emotions. Learn about the invisible load mothers often carry, the importance of setting boundaries, and why sometimes saying "no" is a necessary act of self-care.

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Trigger warning: This episode discusses suicide

The leading cause of death in the first year of childbirth is due to maternal suicide and overdose. This week Sarah and Whitney bring awareness to the topic and discuss common warning signs and how to seek help. We encourage anyone who is struggling with thoughts of self harm to seek help by calling 911/Suicide hotline number 988 or go to your closest emergency room.

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In this week’s episode Sarah interview Erin and Stephen Mitchell to talk about relationship struggles that happen in parenthood and how at the end of the day you can find yourself “too tired to fight”. From mental load, to processing loss differently, to finding yourself going to war over the dishwasher…this is a needed conversation to showcase the common conflicts and how to navigate them.

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You may have heard the term “highly sensitive” child or parent but do you really know what that means or how to navigate? Listen in today as Sarah and Psychologist Chelsea Bodi break it down and touch on anger, repair, and how today’s parents are on the frontlines of managing their own mental health while parenting.

Chelsea Bodi Psychologist, Bsc, MACP, RPsych
 
Follow Mama Psychologist
https://www.instagram.com/mamapsychologists?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
Beyond Baby Blues (mamapsychologists.ca)
Not Your Mother's Postpartum Book: Normalizing Post-Baby Mental Health Struggles, Navigating #Momlife, and Finding Strength Amid the Chaos: Slavens, Caitlin, Bodie, Chelsea: 9781683735823: Books - Amazon.ca


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Today Sarah is joined by Reproductive Psychiatrist, Dr. Constance Guille, as they talk about how the current system of screening moms for their mental health is failing moms. They discuss how coming directly to a mom to screen and treat is how we address the maternity crisis and what you can do if you are struggling to get help.

Dr. Constance Guille is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at MUSC. Dr. Guille completed her psychiatry residency training and sub-specialty training in perinatal psychiatry at Yale University. She established and is currently the Director of the Women’s Reproductive Behavioral Health Program at MUSC. The mission of the program is to improve the mental health of pregnant and postpartum women through clinical care, education, teaching, and clinical research.

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Have you ever wondered if therapy could be the key to unlocking a smoother journey through motherhood? Join us as Whitney helps unravel some of the complexities of starting therapy, especially for new mothers, by breaking down common fears and misconceptions, reassuring listeners that therapy is a space where vulnerability is not only welcome but encouraged. No need to be perfect, just genuinely open.

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Have you ever felt like no one is talking about the struggles of motherhood? Wonder if any other mom is feeling how you do? We have, and we are going straight to Dr. Nikki Scott to have a conversation of why it is so important to not just talk about what we experience in motherhood, but how to navigate it. This episode is full of take away tips that you can start implementing today!

Dr. Nikki Scott is a proud mama and wife. She is also a social worker, grief counselor, and college professor with a doctorate in social work, an advanced grief counseling certification, a certification in bereavement trauma, and training in perinatal mental health. Nikki is a proud member of the National Association of Social Workers, the American Academy of Experts in Traumatic Stress and the National Center for Crisis Management. Nikki aspires to make the world a better place through kindness, compassion, and validating others on their journeys through life. Nikki is board member for the non-profit Love and Hugs Mental Health Foundation She lives in Michigan with her husband Cameron, their sons Liam and Brodie, and their fur babies.

Keep up with Nikki!
Instagram: @mamaletstalkabout
Book on Amazon: Mama, Let's Talk About... All of It

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Join us as we welcome literacy advocate Pam Allyn on the Previa Alliance podcast, where she shares essential insights for parents concerned about their children's kindergarten readiness. Learn how to create a cozy and supportive environment for reading at home, boosting both your child's well-being and their love for books and ensuring a positive start to their educational journey.

Pam Allyn is an award-winning author, educator, and innovator. Her books include Every Child a Super Reader, co-authored with Dr. Ernest Morrell; Your Child’s Writing Life, winner of the Mom’s Choice Award; and What to Read When. She is a renowned public speaker and has created programs to help children learn to read and achieve exceptional results in academics and well-being from birth through grade 12. Pam created World Read Aloud Day, now celebrated annually by millions of people around the world. Most recently, Pam has created Dewey, building solutions to help parents and caregivers raise lifelong learners.

Check out Pam and Dewey here
Pam Allyn
Dewey (deweycommunity.com)
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(17) Dewey: Overview | LinkedIn

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Have you ever found yourself feeling like a middle schooler all over again, trying to make friends at your child's birthday party? Whitney and Sarah dive deep into the highs and lows of connecting with other parents at kid functions in our latest conversation. Tune in as they emphasize the importance of making small, genuine connections that can help parents and children alike, sharing personal stories and strategies for building a supportive community.

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Ever wondered how societal pressures and personal grief shape the journey of motherhood? This week, we sit down with Paige Johnson, as she shares her poignant experiences with motherhood, including the heart-wrenching moments of miscarriage, and how these trials inspired her to create a community that celebrates mothers beyond their parenting roles. Her candid revelations highlight the importance of community support and normalizing conversations around the struggles and triumphs of being a mom.

Paige is a marketing consultant, Amazon best-selling author, speaker and proud mom of two. Known for her "fail fast, fail hard" mantra, she recently launched "More Than a Mom," a podcast that empowers moms to give the middle finger to societies expectations of how they should act by celebrating their identities beyond motherhood. With Paige, it's all about living boldly and authentically, both in business and life.

Follow Paige!
Instagram: @morethanamomtv
Spotify: More than a Mom Podcast
Apple: More than a Mom Podcast
Amazon Books: Break Free of the Bullsh*t: A Millennial Empowerment Guide

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Ever feel like the endless noise and chaos of summer with kids at home is driving you to the brink? You’re not alone! Join Sarah, Whitney, and Jenny as they share their own hilarious and heartfelt stories of navigating this whirlwind season. We also look at the tricky terrain of intrusive questions about family planning and the societal pressures that come with motherhood.

Learn how to set boundaries with grace and tackle the comparison traps set by social media. This episode is a comforting reminder that you’re not alone in this journey, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

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Summer travel season is on! Here at Previa Alliance, we like to say traveling with children is parenting in a different location. This week, we have our favorite sleep guru, Unnati Patel, back to help you and your little. Let's get rested and take in some tips and tricks on how to set you and your child up for sleep success!

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Join us for the second-part of our episode with our esteemed guest, sex therapist Taylor Cordell, as we highlight the importance of open communication and mutual support between partners, acknowledging how differently men and women cope with these challenges.

Taylor dives deep into the emotional rollercoaster couples often experience when trying to conceive or recovering from birth or loss, emphasizing the importance of maintaining non-sexual intimacy like cuddling and meaningful conversations. She then provides valuable insights on how to keep the emotional and physical connection strong.

Connect with Taylor!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.mom.and.sex.therapist

Taylor's E Book Preparing for Postpartum
https://stan.store/TheMomandSexTherapist

Thryvetherapy.com


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Ever wondered how to maintain a spark during pregnancy or even post-baby? Guest Taylor Cordell and Sarah dive deep into the complexities of intimacy during and after pregnancy, breaking down how changing physical and emotional states can impact desire and comfort levels. We also offer practical tips for balancing intimacy with the demands of existing children, emphasizing the importance of clear and compassionate communication to navigate differing needs and comfort zones.

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.mom.and.sex.therapist 

Taylor's E Book Preparing for Postpartum
https://stan.store/TheMomandSexTherapist

Connect with Taylor
Thryvetherapy.com 

Balancing motherhood and fitness is no easy feat, and our guest this week, Mckenna Pou offers practical advice on how to integrate exercise into a busy mom's life. From creative activities during nap times to setting realistic goals amidst the chaos, we explore strategies to maintain health and well-being. We also address the pressures of social media comparisons, emphasizing the need for adaptable routines and self-compassion.

Mckenna's insights are a beacon for mothers seeking to reclaim their fitness without succumbing to unrealistic expectations. She can be found on Instagram @mckennapou.

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In this epidsode, join us as we sit down with Mallory Whitmore, also known as the Formula Mom on Instagram, who bravely shares her personal journey through the challenges of postpartum life and formula feeding. From dealing with medical complications and insufficient milk supply to the emotional weight of societal expectations, Mallory's story is a powerful testament to the need for better support systems for formula-feeding parents.

Per the CDC up to 75% of babies will be formula fed by 6 months, yet parents off are faced with lack of resources, shame, and judgment. Listen in as Sarah speaks with Mallory as they share how they both choose formula for their mental health and how that impacted their postpartum depression journeys. Mallory also shares insight and resources for parents on how to make informed decisions on what’s best for them and their baby.

Bio: Mallory is a mom of two, educator, advocate, and certified infant feeding tech. She's the founder of The Formula Mom, an online platform that helps new parents make informed, confident, and supported infant feeding decisions-- without guilt or shame! She can be found on Instagram @theformulamom and leading education for Bobbie.

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Paige Bellenbaum, LCSW
Founding Director and Chief External Relations Officer

Paige Bellenbaum, LCSW is the Founding Director and Chief External Relations Officer at The Motherhood Center of New York. Paige attended UCLA as an undergraduate and received her MSW from the Columbia School of Social Work. For 20 years, Paige worked in the non-profit sector, holding senior leadership positions at Hamilton Family Center in San Francisco and The Partnership for the Homeless, Habitat for Humanity, and Settlement Housing Fund in New York. She has worked in the field of public policy, advocacy, and community organizing working with various disadvantaged populations including homeless families and incarcerated young adults, and has held several appointed and elected political positions including the District Leader of Brooklyn’s 52nd Assembly District.

After her first child was born, Paige suffered from severe postpartum depression and anxiety that nearly ended her life. However, once she began to heal, she became committed to fighting for education, screening, and treatment for postpartum depression so that no more women would have to suffer silently. As a result, she drafted legislation in New York State championed by Senator Liz Krueger, mandating hospitals to provide education on PMADs and strongly encouraging screening of all new and expecting mothers, signed into law in 2014. Since then, Paige has been an outspoken maternal mental health advocate and clinician and uses her story as a tool for change.

She currently works closely with the NYPD on maternal mental health initiatives, DOHMH’s Maternal Hospital Quality Improvement Network, and the Nurse Family Partnership and sits on the NYC Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee and the NYS Maternal Mental Health Working Group. She has appeared on the Today Show, Good Morning America, NPR, PBS Newshour, Fortune, The New York Times, and The Wall Street Journal.”

The Motherhood Center of New York is a comprehensive treatment center for new and expecting mothers/birthing parents experiencing prenatal and postpartum depression, postpartum anxiety, and postpartum psychosis. Our services include our one-of-a-kind Perinatal Day Program, therapy, medication management, and support groups. The Motherhood Center also provides training and educational events for healthcare providers and parents.

To learn more about The Motherhood Center, visit our website for parents or for providers. If you want to learn more about The Motherhood Center’s treatment services, complete a new patient inquiry form here or speak with one of our Care Coordinators at 212-334-0035. Follow The Motherhood Center on Instagram @themotherhoodcenter to stay up-to-date on all things maternal mental health.”

The Motherhood Center - Postpartum Depression Treatment

Contact Us | Postpartum Support International (PSI)

National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262)

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This week, Sarah goes back to a fan favorite episode for Maternal Mental Health Month, Depression During Pregnancy. You know about postpartum depression, but do you know about depression that occurs during pregnancy? Listen in as Sarah and Whitney talk about the risk factors, what depression during pregnancy looks like, and how to advocate for yourself.

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Imagine being trapped on a never-ending roller coaster of nausea and vomiting while trying to cherish the miracle of pregnancy. That's the reality for those battling Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), a condition that our guest, Andrea Stefens, tackled not once, but twice. Andrea, a dedicated therapist and hyperemesis coach, joins us to unravel her personal fight against this incapacitating condition. Through hospital stays, invasive treatments, and the challenge of maintaining family life amidst her health battles. Join us as Andrea takes us through the psychological aftermath of her grueling experience with HG.

About Andrea Stefens:

Andrea Stefens is a proud hyperemesis coach. She’s two-time HG survivor who uses her experience with HG and what she’s learned in over 12 years of being a practicing creative arts therapist to coach women through HG and processing the experience afterwards. Her masters thesis at NYU (2012) was focused on the efficacy of using creative arts therapy interventions with women who had suffered from traumatic pregnancy experiences. Her passion is sharing coping skills, support, information, and lessons in self-advocacy with these women and their families during what can be one of the most difficult experiences in their lives.

Connect with Andrea

 https://www.hyperemesiscoach.com
Andrea@hyperemesiscoach.com 
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This episode peels back the curtain on the social media highlight reel, urging a return to authenticity in how we celebrate our mothers and ourselves. We discuss how crucial it is to communicate our needs and desires with our partners and how to avoid the potential emotional pitfalls of Mother's Day. By offering strategies and emphasizing the value of support systems, we hope to provide understanding and solidarity for anyone who might find Mother's Day to be a challenging time.

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In this episode, Kristina Dunley bravely shares her harrowing encounter with postpartum psychosis. Her story is a sobering reminder that every mother's postpartum journey deserves to be met with the highest level of care and compassion. We hope this episode helps foster a culture of openness and understanding, ensuring mothers everywhere receive the support they so deeply need.

More About Kristina!

• Kristina Dulaney RN, PMH-C
• Postpartum Psychosis Survivor
• Founder/Executive Director, Cherished Moms
• Founder PPP Awareness Day
• 2024 award recipient of Maternal Mental Health Hero for the Policy Center of Maternal Mental health

Follow Kristina on her Socials!

• PPP Awareness Day
• PPP Awareness Day (@pppawarenessday) • Instagram photos and videos
• Facebook
• Cherished Mom – Helping New Moms
• Cherished Mom (@cherishedmom) • Instagram photos and videos

Kristina’s transformative journey through postpartum psychosis redirected her life’s mission and career trajectory. Her unwavering dedication to advocating for perinatal mental health became the cornerstone of her purpose. This pivotal experience ignited her passion to empower and support other expecting and new mothers, driving her to establish Cherished Mom, a non-profit organization committed to promoting awareness, education, and support for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. She appeared on Dr. Phil in early 2023 to share her experience.

As the founder and Executive Director of Cherished Mom, Kristina spearheaded the creation of PPP Awareness Day, a pivotal initiative aimed at raising awareness of postpartum psychosis as a mental health emergency. This annual event serves as a beacon of hope, shedding light on the symptoms, treatment, and the critical importance of early intervention for individuals affected by PPP. She is a Maternal Mental Health Hero 2024 recipient from the Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health. 

Drawing from her lived experience with PPP and her background as a registered nurse, Kristina leverages her expertise to empower healthcare professionals and families in identifying individuals at risk, recognizing the symptoms of PPP and other maternal mental health disorders, and ultimately improving family outcomes. Her unwavering commitment to advocacy has garnered recognition and accolades, further amplifying the impact of her work in the realm of perinatal mental wellness.

Kristina’s journey from personal adversity to impactful advocacy is a testament to the transformative power of resilience and compassion. Her unwavering dedication to supporting perinatal mental wellness has reshaped her life and become a beacon of hope for countless individuals and families navigating similar challenges. Through her compelling story and unwavering commitment, Kristina continues to inspire and drive meaningful change in the landscape of maternal mental health advocacy.

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Mothers are expected to have it all together, but reality isn't always so simple. In this episode, we explore strategies for resilience and self-care that are as practical as they are empowering. Courtney Montgomery joins us to share personal tactics from her 'toolbox', like meditation and cold showers, and stresses the importance of teaching children to express their emotions honestly. 

At the heart of this episode is the simple reminder that it's not just okay to seek help, but it's a sign of strength and love. So tune in for a transformative session that speaks directly to the heart of parents everywhere, offering solace and strength in equal measure.

More About Courtney!
Courtney has struggled with lifelong anxiety & depression and has now dedicated her life to making people feel less alone in their struggles. Besides being a published author, Courtney has worked to build a strong sense of trust within her IG community in order for it to be a safe space for others. Outside of work and social media, Courtney likes spending time with her husband and two kids and lives in northern Virginia.

Link to Courtney's  Book: Lily's Special Toolbox

 Link to  follow Courtney on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilysanxietytoolbox/

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In an episode close to our hearts, we revisit the silent struggle of infertility with Alex, an advocate whose voice resonates with unwavering strength in the infertility and motherhood community. We delve into the nuances of motherhood that surface after infertility and loss, from navigating triggers and evolving relationships with our partners, to the importance of setting boundaries for self-care. Join us for an intimate episode that offers not just a beacon of hope, but a reminder that you are not alone on this path.

About Alex Kornswiet:

Alex is a mom of 3 boys, after years of infertility, recurrent pregnancy loss, surrogacy, and more. She speaks openly about her path to motherhood and life as a mom @ourbeautifulsurprise. Alex’s company, The Empowered Space, has a free community and customizable programs for women experiencing infertility and loss, so they can find more acceptance, joy, and connection.

To Join Alex's free community click below:
https://theempowered.space/communities/

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Dr. Dawn Boender, an OB/GYN turned reproductive behavioral health fellow, joins Sarah and Whitney to unravel the mystery of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and how it can turn the tides of emotion for women worldwide. From lifestyle tweaks to the potential of nutritional supplements and the transformative power of therapy, Dr. Dawn paints a vivid picture of the challenges women face when their mental well-being is intertwined with the menstrual cycle. Her compassionate advice offers solace to listeners and empowers them with knowledge and tactics to face PMDD head-on.

About Dr. Dawn Boender:

Dr. Dawn Boender is a fellow in the Women's Reproductive Behavioral Health Division at The Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC). Dr. Boender is a board certified OB/GYN. She attended medical school at Sanford School of Medicine in South Dakota, and completed OB/GYN residency through the University of Kansas (KU) Wichita. Her professional interests include treatment of mood and anxiety disorders that are affected by hormonal changes, including the perinatal, menstrual, and perimenopausal time periods. Outside of work she can be found spending time with her husband and four children.

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Sarah and Whitney are joined by Hannah Stiltner for a deep exploration into the varying faces of codependency, from the anxiously attached to the fiercely independent.

These insights guide us through understanding the impact of codependent behaviors on self-worth and relationships, emphasizing the importance of personal accountability and setting boundaries, the significance of not rewarding negative behavior, and the value of investing in healthy, reciprocal relationships.

Join us as we affirm the importance of personal growth and a reminder that the foundation of love and boundaries is key to nurturing the next generation.

Hannah Stiltner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist. She is a proud mom and owner of Soul Story Therapy.  Hannah is a true advocate and supporter of maternal mental health.  

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The witching hour isn't just for babies; it's a very real phenomenon for parents too. Sharing stories of this collective struggle, Sarah and Whitney discuss actionable methods like stepping outside for breath of air, taking a moment for yourself, and even discussing this struggle out loud with the family. Tune in for a powerful blend of empathy and understanding that aims to illuminate the path to mental wellness for every mom out there.

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In this episode, Sarah and Whitney share tales of becoming a mom, and being a source of motivation and support for other moms. Whether you're battling mental health challenges or just trying to figure out the car seat, remember that amidst the chaos of raising little humans, you're enveloped by a community ready to lift you up!

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In this episode, Sarah and Whitney dissect the nature of anxiety that can linger beyond the baby blues, potentially morphing into a generalized anxiety disorder that can affect everyday life. They dive into the importance of therapy, help explain the nature of intrusive thoughts, and, most importantly, help mothers realize that they're part of an ever-growing community of moms who stand united in the face of anxiety.

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In this heartfelt episode, Sarah and Whitney unpack the complexities of postpartum depression and baby blues. They dive deep into dissecting the causes and impact while emphasizing the important distinction between the two. Listen in as they share their own experiences with postpartum anxiety and take a look at the rise in postpartum mental illness in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

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We're all familiar with the airline safety instruction to put on our own oxygen mask before assisting others, but the truth is, for mothers, this goes against our every instinct. In this episode, Whitney and Sarah share a candid conversation about guilt and societal expectations, and the importance of self-care. If you're a mother who struggles with putting everyone before yourself, you won't want to miss this episode.

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Lacey returns to the podcast to share her journey since giving birth. Join us as she Lacey shares her pregnancy story and her commitment to self-improvement postpartum, from embracing the simplicity of nice pajamas to the transformative power of regular therapy sessions.

You can follow Lacey @wearetheglittergospel on Instagram.

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Sarah is excited to have Occupational Therapist Courtney English join this week's podcast to discuss sensory dysregulation. Courtney shares her journey from hand therapist to pediatric occupational therapist and her struggles with postpartum anxiety. Courtney's story isn't just about her professional journey; it's a deep dive into the heart of parenting—understanding your child's needs and learning to be their emotional anchor amidst the waves of developmental challenges.

Courtney shares strategies to engage the parasympathetic nervous system and discusses the importance of self-awareness in recognizing moments of dysregulation.

Keep an eye out this week for other tips from Courtney through Previa Alliance!

You can follow Courtney @courtneyenglish.ot on Instagram and @courtneyenglish.ot on TikTok.

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Do you ever wonder how your childhood experiences impact your relationships today? After Sarah discovered her own attachment style through a quiz recommendation from Whitney, a conversation was sparked that they just had to share with you. Together, they unravel the subtle yet powerful ways our early interactions with caregivers shape the complex tapestry of our current relationships. Journey with them as they explore the nuances of different attachment styles, and how the echoes of inconsistent parenting can ripple through our lives in everything from romantic entanglements to colleague camaraderie.

Take the test to find out your Attachment Style(s) here: https://www.attachmentproject.com/

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🎙️ Curious about the groundbreaking new postpartum depression medication? Tune in to this enlightening quick podcast where Sarah converses with reproductive psychiatrist Dr. Claire Smith. Discover our hopes for this medication and the vital message she has for you.

Remember, no issue is too small to address during pregnancy or postpartum. Listen now and empower yourself. 💪

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Have you ever found yourself gripped by thoughts that seemed to come out of nowhere? Unsettling thoughts, completely at odds with who you are as a person and as a mother. You're not alone, and that's the heart of Sarah's conversation with Dr. Claire Smith, a renowned reproductive psychiatry expert. Listen in as Dr. Claire Smith sheds light on the shadowy corners of motherhood where intrusive thoughts dwell. This episode is a safe haven, dispelling myths and reaffirming that these thoughts are just that—thoughts, not indicators of your worth or love as a parent.

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In this episode, Lisa McCarty joins Sarah and Whitney to recount the emotional whirlwind of her own infertility. Through her story, Lisa shares a raw and powerful perspective on why listening to your body and practicing self-advocacy is essential in our healthcare system. If you're a mom who has ever felt alone on your journey or has struggled to find their voice amid the trials of infertility, this is an episode you've got to listen to.

* Correction: According to the World Health Organization in 2021, there were just over 1,000 maternal deaths per year. And as of March 2023, over 70,000 women die each year from postpartum hemorrhage.

Click here to learn about Lisa's Story.

About Lisa McCarty:

Lisa McCarty is a Writer and Women's Health Advocate for key issues such as infertility, maternal health, mental health and breast health. She is passionate about empowering women over 30 to be more informed and be their own best advocates for their health.

Her instagram account is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive community for daily inspiration and education on women's health topics and more. Her mission is to help other women who may be struggling with their mental health, infertility, postpartum and beyond. She also writes personal essays and poetry to share her own experiences as well. You can follow her @lbmccarty717 on Instagram.

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Have you ever felt a wave of frustration wash over you while juggling the demands of motherhood with the rest of your life? We get it, and that's why we're peeling back the layers on the emotional struggles that come with being a mom. From the physical toll of pregnancy to the silent expectations of managing a household, this episode is a raw look into the world of maternal resentment. Join us as we embrace the challenges, champion the triumphs, and above all, remind you that you are not alone on this journey.

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Ever felt like waving a white flag when your kiddo sneezes for the umpteenth time, knowing full well you're about to embark on yet another germ-fueled adventure? That's where we find ourselves in today’s heartfelt discussion, as Whitney and Sarah get real about the marathon of managing childhood illness.

Our conversation pulls back the curtain on the ups, the downs, and the downright sniffles of parenting sick little ones, from the common cold to the more ominous contagions that send shivers down our spines with each school notice.

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In this episode, Sarah and Whitney explore how social media causes us to place unrealistic expectations on ourselves as parents. Instead of subscribing to the pressures of “Pinterest-perfect” parenting, we should opt for a healthier approach that focuses on embracing what you have and enjoying celebrations within your means. If you feel pressured to spend more to make unforgettable memories with your children, this is an episode you can’t afford to miss.

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Happy New Year! Have you ever found yourself a few months into the new year frustrated with your progress toward unrealistic resolutions? If so, then you must join Sarah and Whitney for the first podcast of 2024 as Whitney shares her strategy for leaning into the new year with a positive mindset and with goals that are more in line with motherhood, fitness, and personal growth.

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Ever found yourself in the post-holiday hangover we affectionately term the 'Christmas Crash'? You're not alone. This episode is a warm hug for those wrestling with the array of emotions that swarm us after the Christmas high dissipates and we're left in an odd limbo before the New Year. We're sending out a heartening message of grace, self-care, and the power of getting back to your routine - the activities that sprinkle joy and balance in your life. So, here's to surviving the 'Christmas Crash' and marching into the New Year with renewed spirit!

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Ladies, picture this: you're pregnant with your much-awaited baby, but instead of basking in joy, you're dealing with high blood pressure, dysautonomia, and a constant cloud of uncertainty. Not the most heartwarming image, is it? This week, Sarah sits down with the brave and inspiring Hannah Griffin, now a mother to baby Amelia, to shed light on the often unspoken health struggles during pregnancy. Trust us, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Hannah's Instagram: @bighairedhannah

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Chelsea Hobbs, acclaimed for her prolific work in TV and films, joins Sarah to share with us her intimate journey of motherhood. Advocating for maternal mental health, Chelsea shares her struggles of being a working mom in the entertainment industry, shedding light on the often overlooked issues such as the heartbreak of experiencing a miscarriage while on set. Her story is a powerful reminder that no matter how challenging motherhood can be, as women, we are never alone in our struggles.

Chelsea's Facebook: @chelseaxhobbs
Chelsea's Instagram: @chelseaxhobbs

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Join Sarah and Whitney as they get candid about their own experiences navigating tricky family dynamics around the holidays. From tussling with relatives over politics to setting boundaries with confrontational kin, they shed light on it all. They even tackle an unusual scenario involving a grandmother-to-be who insists on being called "mom" by her soon-to-be-born grandson, and how you can peacefully address such peculiar situations. So, tune in for a hearty chat over a cup of hot cocoa, and remember, it's okay to put your needs first!

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Ok time to start solids - Doctor

How, what, when…help! - All parents

As a parent, do you ever feel lost when it comes to feeding your baby solid foods? Do you worry about allergens, picky eaters, and the chaos of mealtime routines? You're not alone. This episode features a conversation with Kary Rappaport Executive director from Solid Starts, a pediatric occupational therapist and lactation consultant whose work has been shaped by her own experience with postpartum anxiety. Kary’s approach to infant feeding offers a refreshing perspective and practical guidance, which we unpack over the course of our chat. From how to start with solids, allergens, and problem solving techniques to tricky mealtime behavior, this is has it all!

Solid Starts Food database First Foods for Babies Starting Solids - Solid Starts

Check out Solid Starts for helpful guides and courses.

More about Kary Rappaport - Executive Director of Solid Starts PRO

A mom of two, Kary specializes in family mealtime dynamics and eating issues across the spectrum, from breast and bottle feeding challenges and picky eating, to dysphagia, tube feeding, and complex food refusal.  Kary has extensive, wide-ranging work experience from outpatient therapy, to pediatric acute care in a high acuity NICU, to in-home settings and Well Child visits, all supporting families and children with eating and swallowing. Kary has worked with thousands of infants and children as they learn to eat, and she has taught parents and medical professionals on this topic for nearly two decades. 

Solid Starts is the leading institution on how to introduce real food to babies. We are a multi-disciplinary team made up of doctors, feeding therapists, dietitians, and researchers focused on providing evidence-based information on introducing solid food to babies and navigating picky eating in toddlerhood. Central to our mission is the free First Foods Database®, an award-winning app and database of foods from around the world.

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Along with the joy of Thanksgiving comes the stress of expectations and the memories of loved ones we've lost. So, how can we juggle the demands of the holiday season while bearing the weight of grief? Sarah and Whitney unpack this delicate topic, offering insights into maintaining your mental health while navigating holiday chaos.

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Have you ever said to yourself, "If I don’t do it, then who will?" Today we're talking about all the things moms end up doing because 'no one else will.' More importantly, we'll talk about how we can STOP this cycle, so moms don't burn out. As the holiday season is upon us, this is the perfect time to learn how to find more balance in your life.

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