Afleveringen

  • Every new mom’s journey with their newborn is different, but in some ways, we encounter similar challenges, yet often feel alone. In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Gwyneth Fountain, a 22 year old first-time mom to a beautiful baby boy. She shares her experiences of the initial four weeks postpartum, and we cover everything from unmet expectations to coping mechanisms.

    One of the central themes of the conversation is the disparity between expectations and reality. Gwyneth shares that her newborn son was a hefty 10 pounds, five ounces at birth, which brought its own set of challenges and surprises.

    The conversation turns to the physical and mental challenges Gwyneth faced during the final weeks of her pregnancy. She candidly discusses the pelvic pain, back pain, and the mental toll of the prolonged waiting period. Gwyneth also addresses the relentless and often overwhelming external reminders from loved ones and acquaintances about her overdue pregnancy.

    Gwyneth opens up about her initial struggles with breastfeeding, including a traumatic start that required the use of a nipple shield. She describes the conflicting advice she received from different healthcare professionals and the emotional toll it took on her. Cindy reinforces the importance of patience and persistence, offering practical advice for overcoming breastfeeding challenges.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro02:08 Expectations vs. Reality of Postpartum04:32 Gwyneth's Birth Story06:10 Dealing with Overdue Pregnancy09:22 Coping Mechanisms and Support15:43 Navigating Negative Birth Stories23:27 Navigating Early Parenting Challenges24:04 Breastfeeding Struggles and Solutions26:40 The Emotional Rollercoaster of New Motherhood35:17 Practical Tips for Postpartum Self-Care36:57 Balancing Personal Needs with Baby's Care41:03 Embracing the Journey of Parenthood43:51 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    Connect with Gwyneth

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gwynethfountain TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@gwynethfountain


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  • Bringing a baby into a household that already has a dog can be both joyful and challenging. How do you ensure that your beloved pet adapts well to this significant change? In this episode, I’m joined by Dominika Knossalla-Pado, a certified dog trainer and founder of Dog Meets Baby, to discuss tips and insights for introducing a newborn to a household with a dog.

    Dominika is a Certified Dog Trainer and the founder of Dog Meets Baby. She lives in beautiful San Francisco with her 8-year-old twins and a yellow Labrador Retriever named Lola.

    Dominika graduated with honors from the prestigious Academy for Dog Trainers (called the Harvard of Dog Training).

    Lola’s predatory reaction to her newborn twins was one of the main reasons why she started Dog Meets Baby. Dominika is passionate about helping parents of young children and dogs (like herself) who want real tips and solutions to keep everyone safe. She wants parents to have an action plan when they bring their baby home and know what to do when their baby becomes mobile.

    Dominika shares various techniques and tools to prepare your dog for a new baby. One of the most crucial elements is to practice with a doll or a baby-like object. By simulating the presence of a newborn, dogs can get used to the new addition. Dominika also emphasizes the importance of familiarizing dogs with newborn sounds, such as crying and grunting, which are available for free on her website.

    Dominika Knossalla-Pado’s insights provide valuable guidance for anyone preparing to introduce a new baby into a household with a dog. By planning ahead, using practical training techniques, and recognizing the signs of distress in your dog, you can create a harmonious environment for both your baby and your pet.

    Bringing a baby home is a significant change for everyone in the household, including your dog. With the right preparation and guidance, it can be a smooth transition that ensures the safety and well-being of your entire family.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro03:03 Dominika's Personal Story03:55 Challenges with Lola the Labrador06:13 Starting Dog Meets Baby14:48 Preparing Your Dog for a New Baby21:46 Introduction to Free and Paid Resources22:38 Training Techniques and Tools23:15 Handling Baby Sounds and Dog Reactions25:04 First Meeting and Planning25:55 Addressing Reactive Dog Behaviors28:11 Importance of Consistency and Professional Help32:22 Recognizing Red Flags and Seeking Guidance38:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Resources mentioned in this episode:

    Pre-baby courses - https://bit.ly/3ITH2al Mobile Baby courses - https://bit.ly/3IZjTTI Dog Body Language Course - https://bit.ly/3TTwmPc Blog - https://bit.ly/3VyPjYL Free Toddlers & Dogs Guide - https://bit.ly/4av6eQ7 Free Preparation Checklist - https://bit.ly/3PGeSn1 Free Baby Sounds Library - https://bit.ly/4ctxvEi

    Connect with Dominika

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dogmeets_baby Pinterest: pinterest.com/DogMeetsBaby www.dogmeetsbaby.expert


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  • Are you a parent struggling with your child's sleep patterns and wondering how sleep training could help? Rebecca Mendoza, a certified child sleep consultant, shares her wisdom on the journey to better sleep for your little ones in this week’s episode.

    Timing is crucial when it comes to sleep training. Most sleep consultants recommend starting no earlier than four months, with many preferring to begin at five or six months. Babies should be developmentally ready to understand the connection between their actions and responses, which typically occurs around five months. Premature babies may require adjusted timing based on their development.

    Parents need to consider their comfort levels and involvement. More involved methods, where parents stay in the room, can be gentler but tougher. Less involved methods, such as the Ferber method or sleep wave method, involve checking at intervals but not soothing the baby back to sleep immediately. Remember, consistency is key. By allowing your baby to practice self-soothing with decreasing parental intervention, they will eventually learn to fall back asleep on their own.

    Having seen, first-hand, with her own children, the enormous benefits that come from making sleep a priority, the seed of Rebecca's career in sleep consulting was planted. As she transitioned out of a 25-year dance career, Rebecca dove into the formal study of sleep science, studying Sleep Physiology with Dr. Richard Horner at the University of Toronto. She continued her studies with The Family Sleep Institute and became a certified child sleep consultant. As a knowledgeable and compassionate consultant, Rebecca gives families the tools and confidence to succeed.

    By following a consistent method, understanding your child's cues, and being patient, you can successfully navigate sleep training and help your child—and yourself—enjoy better, more restful nights.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro04:20 Rebecca's Personal Journey with Sleep Training09:33 The Importance of Timing in Sleep Training14:12 Creating the Right Sleep Environment19:26 Methods and Approaches to Sleep Training24:48 Helping Babies Self-Soothe, Consistency in Sleep Training26:49 Parental Intuition and Decision Making27:57 Challenges and Emotional Struggles29:05 Expected Sleep Training Timeline34:09 Feeding During Sleep Training40:08 Final Tips and Encouragement

    Connect with Rebecca

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/RebeccaMendozaSleep Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebeccamendozasleep/www.rebeccamendozasleep.com


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  • In today's busy world, maintaining fitness and nutrition during pregnancy and the postpartum period can be incredibly challenging. However, Tonya Holmes, a certified prenatal and postnatal fitness and nutrition coach, has dedicated herself to helping women navigate these crucial stages of motherhood. With her personal experience and professional expertise, Tonya is a beacon of knowledge and support for expecting and new moms.

    Tonya Holmes has been coaching women online for over four years and recently expanded her services to include in-person coaching. Her journey into fitness began five months postpartum after delivering her son prematurely at 27 weeks due to preeclampsia. Her son spent a challenging 84 days in the NICU and returned home as COVID-19 surged. Driven by her experiences and a newfound passion for fitness, Tonya now aims to educate others on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle before, during, and after pregnancy.

    In addition to fitness, Tonya also provides invaluable guidance on nutrition during pregnancy. She highlights the importance of micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) and macronutrients (fats, carbs, and proteins) for fetal growth and development. Her nutrition plans address the increased calorie needs during different trimesters and debunk myths like "eating for two."

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro04:47 The Turning Point: Pregnancy and Preeclampsia Diagnosis07:57 NICU Challenges and Postpartum Recovery09:33 Embracing a Healthy Lifestyle Postpartum12:58 Tonya's Mission: Empowering Prenatal and Postnatal Fitness16:34 Diving Into Prenatal Nutrition and Exercise17:07 Debunking Pregnancy Nutrition Myths17:22 The Importance of Consulting Healthcare Professionals17:43 Guidance on Supplements During Pregnancy18:08 Starting Fitness Journeys Early in Pregnancy18:36 Postpartum Fitness: The First Steps19:15 Advancing Through Postpartum Fitness Phases19:43 Maintaining and Building Strength Postpartum20:42 Personalized Postpartum Fitness Plans21:16 The Long-Term Approach to Postpartum Fitness22:43 Nutrition Tips for Pregnant Women25:00 Postpartum Nutrition and Exercise Continuity26:09 The Role of Mobility and Flexibility in Fitness28:33 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans29:32 The Impact of Fitness on Overall Well-being

    Connect with Tonya

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptofitmama https://stan.store/truxalt07?fbclid=PAAaZ3gpwnxGOK4xec-o_0mII6sdgfiKFNqBOohGc4Uihho6Uu_TNrdG9urz4


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  • In this episode, I’m joined by Phillip, who’s Cayla’s husband, whom we’ve had the pleasure of talking to in the last three episodes to uncover her postpartum depression journey. Today, we’ll be hearing from Phillip’s perspective on those challenging times and gaining insights into how dads or partners can offer more support.

    Philip explained the mix of excitement and nervousness that comes with expecting a first child. He juggled work in a competitive sales industry and the anticipation that seemed endless. He knew there was no rule book to follow and that every parent figures it out as they go along.

    We get into those early days after bringing Claire home and Phillip shared the surreal experience of leaving the hospital with their newborn, expected to care for her with no manual or test to guide them. He likened it to paternal instincts kicking in – doing whatever it takes to ensure your child’s well-being.

    He explains how Cayla was emotionally distraught, tending to a crying baby, and feeling overwhelmed. It was then that he realized postpartum depression wasn't just a concept but a real, palpable issue affecting their family.

    Philip reflects on whether a change in awareness and actions could have altered their experience, and how men are typically hardwired differently. He emphasizes the importance of trusting one’s gut feelings.

    Philip’s story highlights that while the journey through postpartum depression is challenging, it can be navigated with communication, support, and understanding. Our conversation serves as a reminder that no one is alone and that finding and offering help is a vital part of the journey.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro03:30 Expectations vs. Reality05:25 The Newborn Haze: First Weeks at Home11:19 The Moment of Realization: Postpartum Depression Hits Home15:14 Seeking Help and Finding Support16:34 The Impact of Postpartum Depression on Family Dynamics17:45 Reflections on Fatherhood and Postpartum Challenges18:22 Understanding Hormonal Shifts and Emotional Toll20:25 The Importance of Community and Sharing Stories20:44 Navigating Early Parenthood Challenges21:17 Reflecting on Past Decisions and 'What Ifs'23:51 Understanding Postpartum Depression Signs25:31 The Importance of Trusting Your Instincts26:10 Words of Wisdom for New Dads27:23 The Critical Bonding Period28:11 Finding Balance and Avoiding Escapes30:44 Embracing the Journey of Parenthood36:05 Seeking and Offering Support


    Connect with me

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



  • Motherhood is often depicted as a joyous and seamless transition, but the reality for many can be starkly different. This third part of Cayla’s story offers an intimate look into the struggles and triumphs of navigating motherhood while dealing with overcoming postpartum depression (PPD). Together, we aim to shed light on her experiences from the dark days of the birth of her first child, to the hopeful journey through her second, emphasizing the importance of support, therapy, and self-care in overcoming the challenges faced.

    During our conversation, Cayla emphasized how weekly therapy sessions became her lifeline. The process wasn't just about finding someone to speak with; it was about finding the right therapist who could offer validation, understanding, and strategies to cope with her anxiety and negative thinking. This part of Cayla's journey illustrates the crucial role of mental health support in healing and recovery.

    The decision to have a second child after experiencing PPD can be filled with fear and uncertainty. Cayla demonstrates the transformative power of hope and the importance of proactive planning. By seeking postpartum support in advance and focusing on the potential for a different, more positive experience, Cayla and her husband embraced the possibility of expanding their family.

    Cayla’s story is a testament to the strength and resilience many mothers tap into as they navigate the complexities of motherhood with PPD. It underscores the critical need for open discussions about maternal mental health, the importance of seeking and accepting help, and the possibility of healing and finding joy in motherhood after PPD.

    For mothers experiencing similar challenges, Cayla's journey underscores the importance of reaching out for help and the value of creating a postpartum plan that addresses potential mental health concerns. Know that you're not alone and that with the right support and resources, healing and hope are within reach.

    Cayla's journey provides crucial insights into the realities of postpartum depression and the importance of proactive planning, seeking support, and embracing self-care. Her story is a beacon of hope for others facing similar battles, highlighting that with determination, support, and understanding, it's possible to navigate the darkest of times and emerge stronger on the other side.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro02:46 Therapy and Self-Care: Building a Stronger Foundation03:32 Navigating Anxiety and Negative Thoughts: Strategies for Mental Health06:15 Preparing for Baby Number Two: Embracing Change with Support07:36 Proactive Postpartum Support: Planning for a Better Experience14:21 Facing Birth Anxieties and Hospital Restrictions During COVID21:22 A Different Birth Experience: Challenges and Triumphs25:53 A Gentle Introduction to Postpartum Experience26:04 The First Moments with Baby Emily26:43 Navigating Postpartum Care and Early Motherhood27:01 Returning Home: A New Environment for Recovery27:43 Introducing Siblings28:30 Reflections on Motherhood and Mental Health30:06 The Power of Support: Postpartum Doulas and Self-Care37:00 Breastfeeding Journey and Work-Life Balance44:04 Looking Back: Growth, Healing, and Future Plans


    Connect with me

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/https://thewholebundle.com/
  • In this episode, we get into the second part of Cayla’s journey through postpartum depression. This episode uncovers the raw and often hidden struggles that many new mothers face after childbirth.

    The first signs of trouble appeared early on when Cayla faced judgment for her baby's weight loss and her decision to breastfeed. Despite the pediatrician’s suggestion to switch to formula feeding, Cayla was determined to breastfeed, clinging to the societal notion and pressure that it was the best for her baby. Unfortunately, the continued efforts and the isolation she felt as a new mother only added to her growing feelings of inadequacy and exhaustion.

    As her postpartum depression deepened, Cayla sought the support of a postpartum doula. Though partially helpful, it did not alleviate the overwhelming sense of failure she felt. Her husband, Philip, struggling to understand and support her through this time, inadvertently added to her isolation and despair.

    Recognizing the severity of her condition, Cayla reached out to her OB for help, leading to a recommendation for hospitalization at UNC Chapel Hill's perinatal psychiatric unit. Despite her initial resistance due to fear of losing her baby, Cayla’s desperation for relief compelled her to seek the necessary treatment.

    Cayla’s two-and-a-half-week hospital stay became a turning point in her journey. It provided her with the support and validation she so desperately needed. The medical team worked closely with her, adjusting medication, and providing therapy to start her on the path to recovery. Her stay in the hospital, though difficult, marked the beginning of her healing process, offering her hope and tools to manage her depression.

    Cayla’s story is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit. It serves as a reminder of the critical importance of seeking help and the strength found in honest conversations about mental health. Her advice to other mothers facing the "sticky anxiety" of postpartum depression is clear: recognize the signs and don’t ignore them, ask for help, and know you're not alone.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro01:30 First check-up, moving to formula and bottle feeding02:58 Getting a postpartum doulas05:23 How her husband was handling things, not seeing her struggles for how depressive it was07:28 Her postpartum depression and how she expressed it to others12:31 Not getting the help she needs14:02 Trying to get help once again from her OB at 5 weeks, her tipping point18:38 Going to the hospital20:55 How long she was in the hospital, and her experience25:44 Finally going home31:47 Advice for moms who are late in their pregnancy and start feeling anxiety


    Connect with me

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  • Welcoming a new life into the world is an incredible occasion that brings joy, excitement, and sometimes, unexpected challenges. In this week’s episode of The Whole Bundle, we share part 1 of Cayla Guins heartfelt story about her journey through postpartum depression following the birth of her first daughter. This conversation touches on the often unspoken struggles of new mothers, emphasizing the importance of conversation, support, and understanding in navigating postpartum depression and anxiety.

    Cayla's journey began in North Carolina, where she lives with her husband, Phillip. Having been married for over 4 years and together for 12, they were ecstatic about starting a family. However, what was supposed to be a joyous phase of her life took an unexpected turn after her daughter's birth. The transition into motherhood brought Cayla face-to-face with postpartum depression, a struggle she chose to share to bring light to this crucial issue affecting many new mothers.

    Despite a relatively straightforward pregnancy, Cayla, who had experienced mild anxiety and depression in the past, found herself caught in a whirlwind of emotions postpartum. The joy of birth was quickly overshadowed by anxiety, doubts, and the overwhelming responsibilities of motherhood. These feelings were exacerbated by difficulties in nursing and bonding with her daughter, amplified by the lack of sleep and adjustment to her new role.

    Cayla's openness about her struggles brings to light the critical need for discussions about postpartum depression and anxiety. From her candid recount of the emotional toll taken by sleepless nights trying to nurse, to the feelings of inadequacy and frustration when things didn't go as planned, Cayla's story is a beacon for others facing similar battles.

    Through her vulnerability, Cayla teaches us the power of standing in one's truth and reaching out for help when needed. Her journey is a testament to her strength and resilience, qualities that shine brightly even in the darkest times. It's a reminder to all new mothers that it's okay not to be okay and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

    Through seeking support, speaking out, and prioritizing her mental health, Cayla began to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Her experience serves as a message of hope and resilience for anyone in the throes of postpartum depression, reminding them that they are not alone, and that with time and support it does get better.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro03:46 Cayla's story about her pregnancy and what happened next05:41 How her existing anxiety developed as she went through her pregnancy10:43 Going off all medication and her first spike of anxiety during the first trimester12:58 How her second trimester went13:40 When her anxiety started to build14:58 Fixating on bad outcomes vs. feeling them and letting it go17:52 Did she talk to your OB about your anxiety18:47 Getting a doula20:11 The birth of her daughter25:51 Postpartum floor and challenges with lactation29:25 Starting to feel like you're getting everything wrong, insecurities stacking up33:59 Getting discharged and going home


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



  • Postpartum care varies widely across cultures, offering a rich tapestry of traditions, practices, and values that support new mothers and their infants. Iceland, with its progressive and family-centric healthcare system, provides a fascinating case study. In this episode, I have the honor of sitting down with Soffía Bæringsdóttir, a pioneer in the Icelandic doula community, to get into how postpartum care is approached. Soffía's journey as a doula, family therapist, and advocate for comprehensive postpartum support sheds light on a model of care that many outside Iceland might envy.

    In our conversation, Soffía gave us a comprehensive overview of the postpartum care landscape in Iceland. The majority of births occur in hospital settings, with an emphasis on midwifery-led care. In Iceland, new mothers often experience shorter hospital stays, typically between 12 to 24 hours post-birth, encouraged by the knowledge that a midwife will continue to provide in-home support for the first ten days. This early discharge is facilitated by a robust healthcare system that prioritizes home visits to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby, covering aspects from physical health to emotional support and breastfeeding.

    An aspect of Iceland's approach that stands out is its parental leave policy, offering a cumulative one year of leave that both parents can share. Intriguingly, the leave is structured to encourage both mothers and fathers to spend significant time with their newborn, fostering a deep bond from the earliest days of a child's life.

    Soffía's insights into the parent-infant bond—viewing every interaction as an opportunity for connection—highlight the nuanced understanding of infant needs that Icelandic care promotes. This method values the parents' presence, touch, and intuitive responsiveness to their infant's cues as foundational elements of developing secure attachments.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro03:58 How she became a doula07:14 How do women give birth in iceland, hospital or homebirth08:17 Do they use midwives or Obstetrician doctors for birth?09:21 Average amount of time a woman stay in the hospital after birth12:38 Does the midwife also check on the mothers mental health in these home visits after birth?14:22 Do most people take a prenatal course before giving birth?16:36 Is there parental leave?18:30 Breastfeeding vs formula20:38 Government subsidized programs23:37 Average family size25:57 Insight into her work around bonding between parents and children29:18 What she teaches parents to solidify the bond and feelings of attachment, security, and safety33:11 Her retreat

    Connect with Soffia

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Doula.is_Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belladoularetreats https://www.doula.is/


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  • Sleep is a cornerstone of a newborn's development and a critical element for a family’s well-being. Transitioning from the early days of bringing a baby home, parents witness the ebb and flow of sleep patterns that accompany their baby’s rapid growth and development. Our focus today zooms in on what happens beyond the six-week mark, a period ripe with changes, challenges, and opportunities for establishing healthy sleep routines. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of sleep routines for your 6-12 week old baby with the expertise of Pam Diamond.

    Pam Diamond is a baby whisperer and parent coach in North Carolina. She’s passionate about helping families navigate parenthood with more sleep and less stress. For more than 30 years she’s guided parents (and grandparents) to fix what's not working and enjoy what is.

    Pam founded and operated First Daze & Nightzzz, a postpartum doula and sleep consulting service, for 21 years before passing the baton to Elise Silver. She was one of the first 50 to be trained as a sleep coach by Kim West in 2011.

    By the six-week mark, families often notice a seismic shift in their baby’s behavior and sleep patterns. Pam and I discuss strategies for extending that first long stretch of night-time sleep. Cluster feeding in the early evening and understanding the pivotal role of proper daytime naps and feedings lay the groundwork for a night of more restful sleep for both babies and their exhausted parents.

    When the clock strikes midnight (figuratively speaking), many parents find themselves at a crossroads of sleep deprivation and the desperate quest for a semblance of normalcy. Pam shares the concept of sleep consolidation - starting with the longest stretch at night. Surprisingly, a "long stretch" for a newborn might only be four hours, but it's a stepping stone towards a more predictable routine.

    As babies grow past the initial six-week phase, slight adjustments and keen observations become your best tools. The journey from erratic sleep patterns to the first signs of predictability requires patience, understanding, and a bit of science. Pam shares invaluable insights on the importance of daytime naps, proper feeding (avoiding the perilous path of snack feeding), and the underestimated power of fresh air and sunlight.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro02:12 Recap of part 1 05:07 No promise of a miracle07:54 What happens with sleep after you get past the 6 week mark08:55 How do we get the long stretch of sleep at night09:48 How many hours at night are we talking about in these longer stints of sleeping11:52 When babies start to have a more regular sleep schedule 14:40 Tips when no consolation is happening18:11 Should you wake up baby to feed?21:17 When are kids biologically ready to sleep through the night?24:36 Letting babies self-soothe32:19 Babies and Cortisol37:41 One last piece of wisdom - getting fresh air and sunshine each day

    Connect with Pam

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firstdazenightzzzFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pamdiamondLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pameladiamond/www.pamdiamond.com


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  • Are you a new parent struggling with establishing good sleep routines for your newborn? Look no further because We’ve got you covered! In this episode, we're diving into the world of newborn sleep with expert insights from Pam Diamond.

    Pam Diamond is a baby whisperer and parent coach in North Carolina. She’s passionate about helping families navigate parenthood with more sleep and less stress. For more than 30 years she’s guided parents (and grandparents) to fix what's not working and enjoy what is.

    Pam founded and operated First Daze & Nightzzz, a postpartum doula and sleep consulting service, for 21 years before passing the baton to Elise Silver. She was one of the first 50 to be trained as a sleep coach by Kim West in 2011. She was one of the first five trained as a Hug Your Baby instructor in 2010. She’s shared her expertise around parenting and caring for infants and young children writing for websites and newspapers.

    In the whirlwind of the first six weeks with a newborn, sleep can feel like a distant dream. One key takeaway is the importance of creating a conducive sleep environment for your baby. From minimizing stimuli to incorporating white noise, small adjustments can make a big difference in helping your little one drift off to dreamland.

    Pam emphasizes the significance of starting healthy sleep routines from day one. By establishing positive associations with sleep early on, you can set the foundation for long-term sleep habits. Remember, good sleep hygiene isn't just for babies – parents need to prioritize their sleep routines too.

    Newborns have unique sleep patterns characterized by frequent cycles of light and deep sleep. Pam sheds light on the intricacies of these sleep cycles, helping parents differentiate between true wake-ups and transitional moments. By recognizing the signs of tiredness and responding appropriately, you can support your baby's natural sleep rhythms.

    Swaddling is a time-honored practice that provides comfort and security to newborns. Pam explains how swaddling can help calm the startle reflex and promote better sleep. While swaddling is a useful tool in the early weeks, it's essential to transition out of it as your baby grows and develops.

    As we wrap up our journey into the world of newborn sleep, remember that every baby is unique. By observing your little one's cues and responding with care and attention, you can create a nurturing sleep environment that promotes restful nights for the whole family.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro03:00 Basic steps parents can start out with to begin good sleep hygiene08:09 Advice for families who are resistant to put their baby in a different space if they're already sleeping 10:20 Why use white noise16:06 Not letting baby stay awake too long20:14 Motion sleep23:07 Signs your baby might be sleepy24:52 Swaddling29:25 Knowing true wake up versus baby going through sleep cycles31:24 What a sleep cycle looks like for an infant

    Connect with Pam

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/firstdazenightzzzFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/pamdiamondLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pameladiamond/www.pamdiamond.com


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  • As a new parent, navigating your newborn can be overwhelming. From sleepless nights to breastfeeding challenges, it's easy to feel like you're climbing a mountain with no end in sight. That's where me, a seasoned postpartum doula with 16 years of experience, and this podcast, The Whole Bundle, step in to offer a helping hand and create a supportive community for new parents.

    Certified through the CAPPA organization, my passion for postpartum care led me to transition from traditional doula work to live-in care, where I wholeheartedly embraced the philosophy of "it takes a village."

    The thing is, in a world that is more connected than ever, it can feel like our villages have become smaller and smaller. My hope with this podcast is to redefine what a village looks like and to build a more connected community.

    Delving into conscious parenting from the newborn phase, we explore the power of awareness and intention in nurturing healthy parent-child relationships. We will discuss nurturing mindful interactions with infants to establish a solid groundwork for conscious parenting as your child develops.

    Bringing firsthand insights and guidance on common parenting challenges such as feeding, sleep, and postpartum care.

    In a world where parenting can feel isolating and daunting, The Whole Bundle podcast offers information, education and storytelling to families struggling to find their footing and offer them guidance through the challenges of modern parenting.

    We talk about:

    00:00 Intro01:17 My journey into becoming a postpartum doula03:46 How the podcast came to be06:40 conscious parent coaching09:13 Live-in newborn coach work



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



  • The Whole Bundle: Nurturing parents through nourishing conversations is a podcast designed to be a comprehensive guide for new and experienced parents navigating the journey of early parenthood, from birth to the first steps and beyond.

    Hosted by Cindy MacKinnon, it combines real stories from parents and insights from experts to address a wide range of topics including challenges in conceiving, breastfeeding, postpartum issues, and the principles of conscious parenting. The podcast aims to offer guidance, shed light on the complexities of raising children, and promote understanding through discussions on sleep, nutrition, emotional well-being, and family dynamics.

    Our community is a supportive one for parents seeking knowledge, strategies, and reassurance to make informed decisions and confidently embrace the challenges and joys of parenting. The Whole Bundle emphasizes the importance of connection, healing, and understanding in the parenting journey, inviting listeners to join a shared experience of growth and learning.

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