Ahma Need A Minute

Feeling lost and alone during her first pregnancy, Laila found herself battling prenatal depression without any relatable resources to turn to. As the first among her friends to get pregnant, the shame and loneliness were overwhelming. In this episode, Laila shares how she went from self-diagnosing her condition to creating a platform aimed at providing the support she desperately needed but couldn't find. Laila provides practical tips on finding the right therapist, building a support network, and setting healthy boundaries. Join us for a discussion that aims to validate your feelings and encourage proactive mental health care during pregnancy. In this episode, you will hear: Transition from career-focused life to unexpected pregnancy and its emotional impact. Practical tips on finding a therapist and building a supportive network. Importance of recognizing signs of prenatal depression and seeking help. Creating a positive social media environment to counter unrealistic portrayals of motherhood. Emphasis on proactive mental health care and raising awareness about prenatal depression. Resources from this Episode Website: https://www.learningtomompodcast.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/learningtomom.podcast Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Let us know your favorite part of the episode! It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you are thinking of creating your own podcast, consider talking to our producer, Emerald City Productions; find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Join us as we explore the intersection of occupational therapy (OT) and feeding support with our guest, Liz Koren, an experienced pediatric occupational therapist. Liz, who holds a master's degree from Boston University and runs Pure Pediatric Therapy, shares her extensive knowledge on addressing pediatric oral, motor, and feeding issues. Through her personal postpartum experiences, Liz offers invaluable insights into how OT can play a crucial role from infancy through early childhood, emphasizing the importance of educating new moms and empowering families to support their child's development. We discuss the specialization of pediatric feeding therapy, drawing from both professional and personal experiences. We'll talk about the challenges of teaching babies and children how to eat, considering structural and sensory perspectives. Additionally, we emphasize the role of family mealtimes, developmental readiness, and cultural influences on diet.  Listen in for a meaningful conversation. In this episode, you will hear: Specialization in pediatric feeding therapy, including challenges, advanced practice certifications, and the importance of a holistic approach. Family mealtime dynamics, the shift from purees to solid foods, and the role of imitation and developmental readiness in feeding. Effective strategies to reduce mealtime stress method and consistent food introduction. Importance of understanding different types of eaters before creating a feeding plan. Cultural influences on diet and the significance of family mealtimes in encouraging children to try new foods. Resources from this Episode Website: https://purepeds.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pure.pediatric.therapy/ Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Let us know your favorite part of the episode! It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you are thinking of creating your own podcast, consider talking to our producer, Emerald City Productions; find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

If you think homeschooling requires a mountain of educational tools and rigid schedules, think again. In our latest episode, Sarah Collins, a registered and licensed occupational therapist with a unique blend of professional expertise in pediatrics, home health, and homeschooling, joins us. In this episode, Sarah shares her journey from skepticism to advocacy, detailing how occupational therapy principles can seamlessly integrate into a homeschooling environment to create a developmentally supportive space for children. We challenge the common misconceptions about early childhood education and provide insights into fostering essential skills through play and minimalistic setups rather than relying on a plethora of educational gadgets. This episode is packed with valuable tips on balancing sensory play, motor skills development, and discipline, aimed at revolutionizing your approach to motherhood and education. Don't miss Sarah's expert guidance and the supportive community she's built through Homeschool OT. In this episode, you will hear: Integrating occupational therapy principles into homeschooling routines Misconceptions about the necessity of extensive tools and structured activities in early childhood education Emphasizing the importance of simple, everyday interactions and minimalistic setups Addressing children's developmental milestones and sensory play Building a supportive community and team around homeschooling families Practical advice on managing learning challenges and fostering a peaceful learning environment Resources from this Episode Website: www.homeschoolOT.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/homeschool_ot Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Let us know your favorite part of the episode! It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you are thinking of creating your own podcast, consider talking to our producer, Emerald City Productions; find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Join us in this episode as we explore the nuances of maternal mental health with Dr. Emily Guarnotta, a licensed clinical psychologist and certified perinatal mental health specialist. Dr. Guarnotta helps us understand the distinct differences between postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression. Learn how to recognize the signs when something feels off and the importance of seeking help early on. Listen in as we address the significant issue of underdiagnosis and insufficient screening for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. This conversation emphasizes the importance of basic self-care, including proper nutrition, hydration, and rest, as foundational steps to manage anxiety and support overall well-being during the postpartum period. We also explore coping mechanisms beyond medication and therapy, highlighting the value of consistent follow-up screenings and support systems. Dr. Guarnotta also shares insights on teaching mindfulness techniques to children to help them manage emotions and tantrums. Additionally, we explore alternative practices like acupuncture for reducing postpartum anxiety and stress the significance of self-awareness.  In this episode, you will hear: Distinguishing postpartum anxiety from postpartum depression and understanding their unique symptoms. The impact of societal pressures and stigma on maternal mental health. Importance of early intervention and recognizing when to seek help. Practical self-care tips, including nutrition, hydration, and rest. Mindfulness strategies and habit-stacking techniques for busy parents. Alternative therapies like acupuncture for reducing postpartum anxiety. Resources from this Episode Phoenix Health: www.joinphoenixhealth.com Emily's Instagram: www.instagram.com/dr_emily_guarnotta/ Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Let us know your favorite part of the episode! It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you are thinking of creating your own podcast, consider talking to our producer, Emerald City Productions; find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Join us for a conversation with Kaitlin McGreyes, the visionary founder of Be Her Village, as she shares her personal journey from motherhood to creating a revolutionary gift registry that prioritizes postpartum support over traditional baby products. Discover the common pitfalls of standard baby registries and how they often leave new parents unprepared for the real challenges of motherhood. Listen in as we discuss the overwhelming pressures new parents face to buy numerous baby items and how Be Her Village advocates for empowering parents by fostering a robust support network. Kaitlin explains how Be Her Village helps parents register for essential services, making it easier for friends and family to contribute meaningfully. We touch on strategies for encouraging loved ones to support these vital services, aiming to build a supportive village that addresses the true needs of new parents. Listen in to learn how to change the game in baby gift-giving practices. In this episode, you will hear: The problems with traditional baby registries. Shift from product-centric to community-based support systems. The generational evolution of baby gift-giving practices and how Be Her Village facilitates more intentional and practical support for new mothers. Strategies for encouraging friends and family to contribute to essential services instead of material gifts. Importance of educating parents about normal baby behavior and providing real support for better outcomes for both parents and babies. Resources from this Episode Be Her Village: https://behervillage.com https://www.ahmaandco.com/  Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Let us know your favorite part of the episode! It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you are thinking of creating your own podcast, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions; find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

How can vulnerability and curiosity transform your parenting journey? Join us as we sit down with Carmen Stramara, a seasoned parent and postpartum doula, who shares her transformative experiences of raising children across diverse locations from Germany to Savannah, Georgia. Carmen opens up about the unique challenges of frequent moves due to her husband's career and how building a robust support network became her lifeline. Her journey highlights the profound impact of community on mental and physical well-being during the postpartum period. In our conversation, we delve into the teachings of relationship experts John and Julie Gottman, exploring the power of curiosity in deepening relationships. Carmen discusses how adopting a curious mindset can make others feel seen and valued, and we touch on the concept of vibrational patterns, emphasizing the importance of connecting with energies that amplify our own. This episode shines a light on the often-overlooked mental health benefits of overcoming isolation, particularly for new parents grappling with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Finally, we explore Carmen's compassionate work as co-founder of Happily Raised and her role at the Mommy Center.  Tune in to discover how embracing different parenting styles and leaning on each other can create a thriving village for new families. In this episode, you will hear: The transformative power of vulnerability and curiosity in parenting Carmen's experiences raising children with the added challenge of frequent moves The importance of building a robust support network as new parents  Inspiration from the teachings of John and Julie Gottman on deepening relationships through curiosity Resources from this Episode Use the code AHMANEED15 to save 15% on Carmen’s Happily Raised course at https://happilyraised.com Learn more about our work to support mothers through the postpartum phase at www.ahmaandco.com Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Let us know your favorite part of the episode! It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you are thinking of creating your own podcast, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions; find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

What if breastfeeding isn't as natural and easy as we've been led to believe? Ever wondered why some women experience severe emotional and physical symptoms before their periods? Meet Ashley Shapiro, a dedicated nurse and International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), who shares her personal struggles with breastfeeding and how those challenges inspired her to support other mothers. Together, we uncover the myths about breastfeeding and shine a light on Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).  Building a robust support network is crucial for new parents, and we’re here to guide you on how to do it effectively. From practical tips on delegating household tasks to creative solutions like nursery preparation parties, we cover it all. Ashley shares her expert advice on prenatal preparation for breastfeeding to help you avoid common postpartum challenges.  Join us for this comprehensive discussion that aims to make your postpartum period smoother and more supported. In this episode, you will hear: The emotional struggles and misconceptions around breastfeeding, including personal experiences and the importance of support. Issues like tongue ties and how they impact breastfeeding, with practical advice on navigating these challenges. About the emotional and physical symptoms of PMDD, especially during motherhood, and sharing coping strategies like acupuncture and symptom tracking. The necessity of a strong support network, practical tips for setting one up, and leveraging expert help from professionals like IBCLCs. Insights from a postpartum nurse on newborn assessments and the reassurance and confidence that come from experienced guidance. Resources from this Episode https://ashleyshapirolactation.com https://www.ahmaandco.com/  Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Let us know your favorite part of the episode! It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you are thinking of creating your own podcast, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions; find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Join us as we explore the essential aspects of birth education with Tiffany Turner, a birth doula, massage therapist, and mother of four. Tiffany shares her experience from traumatic hospital births to empowering home births, revealing how these personal milestones shaped her career. Tiffany's rich experiences and extensive knowledge shine through as she discusses the evolution of her understanding of childbirth and her mission to help families feel safe and confident throughout their birthing journey. In this episode, we also cover the significance of creating flexible birth plans and the critical role of doulas in advocating for birth preferences. Additionally, we touch on the importance of being present throughout all stages of parenthood, from labor to the teenage years, and the value of savoring each moment with your children.  Tune in to hear more about prenatal and postpartum massage, bodywork, and birth education classes, and how to connect with these resources. In this episode, you will hear: Transition from prenatal and postpartum massage therapist to dedicated birth doula. Crafting adaptable, concise birth plans and the importance of customizing them. The critical role of doulas in providing education, advocacy, and emotional support during labor. Insights on capturing early childhood milestones and appreciating every phase of child development. Resources from this Episode Ahma & Co: https://www.ahmaandco.com Tiffany Turner's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/birthattiffanys Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Let us know your favorite part of the episode! It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you are thinking of creating your own podcast, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions; find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Hi! My name is Gigi, and I'm the new host of Ahma Need a Minute. We're so excited to welcome you back to the podcast. In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Esther, the founder and CEO of Ahma & Co. We explore the multifaceted world of postpartum care, highlighting the impact that doulas, lactation educators, and newborn care specialists can have on the well-being of new families. In this episode, you will hear: The changing landscape of postpartum care and the need for accessible support systems for modern parents. The day-to-day life of a doula and how we can make a difference in the early weeks, including support for hygiene, nutrition, newborn care guidance, babywearing, and establishing routines for new families. Ahma & Co’s vision of transforming postpartum care into a universal right. The behind the scenes details of opening our first postpartum retreat at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach. Resources from this Episode Ahma & Co: https://www.ahmaandco.com  Follow & Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet - and we’d love it even more if you could drop a review! It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast so other moms can find us and join our small but growing community.

After a traumatic birth experience, Michaela experienced symptoms of depression three weeks into the newborn phase. Feelings of hopelessness would surface with each new day, which compounded with the peak of lockdown. Michaela advocated for her mental health and ultimately received the treatment she needed to break through. Look to our website for more articles on motherhood: https://www.ahmaandco.com/ Want to stay connected? Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahmaandco/ Join our chatter room on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ahmaandco/

For our anniversary episode, we have a very special guest who is making waves in motherhood: Leslie Schrock is an accomplished author with two books that bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and practical advice for working families. Her breakout hit book, 'Bumpin': The Modern Guide to Pregnancy,' has become a go-to resource for parents navigating the simultaneously beautiful and challenging journey of pregnancy. Her second book, 'Fertility Rules: The Definitive Guide to Male and Female Reproductive Health,' draws on the latest clinical research to provide insights into topics that are rarely discussed in fertility books, from increasing sperm count and reducing exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals to navigating IVF. Leslie's impact goes beyond her writing; as an angel investor, she has played a vital role in supporting and guiding startups like Maven, Oath, Alife, and Origin, and is a mom to two incredibly fun boys. In this episode, we delve into Leslie's journey as a mother and how it has influenced her work, bust myths around pregnancy and fertility, and discuss whether it is truly possible to "have it all" as a working mom. Visit website for more articles on motherhood: https://www.ahmaandco.com Want to stay connected? Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahmaandco Join our chatter room on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ahmaandco

Gal is a mother of 4 with one set a twins and 3 empowering natural birth stories. She was intentional with her birth plans and care provider selections. Ultimately, she pursued hypnobirthing as well as an at-home birth for her youngest child and loved each experience in its own way. There is a fear element in societal portrayals of birth that Gal is trying to dispel with childbirth education and outreach such as this podcast. Fair warning, listening to this episode might make you look forward to giving birth! Gal champions maternal instinct and wants expecting moms to trust their bodies to know what to do and when to do it. Gal is a certified doula and founder of Embrace Birth and Beyond, (https://embracebirth.net/) which focuses on childbirth education and methods including hypnobirthing. She is also the admin of the Facebook group Peanut Moms of Westchester, a group for Westchester, NY moms of kids under 5 to connect and build a supportive village. Look to our website for more articles on motherhood: https://www.ahmaandco.com/ Want to stay connected? Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahmaandco/ Join our chatter room on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ahmaandco/

Stephanie's faith, love and pain emanate through her recollection of the stillbirth experience with Elodie, her first daughter. Despite her intuition and voicing concerns throughout her pregnancy, the gaps in Elodie's development in utero were missed. Hear Stephanie's perspective after her special day with Elodie and how she keeps Elodie intertwined in her family's life. Look to our website for more articles on motherhood: https://www.ahmaandco.com/ Want to stay connected? Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahmaandco/ Join our chatter room on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ahmaandco/ Episode Timestamps 20:00 Stephanie’s world shatters after finding out Elodie has no heartbeat. 28:00 Moving through Grief. Finding support groups, outreach from the community. 31:00 Moving Forward. Stephanie and her community integrate Elodie’s legacy in their life. 33:30 God answering their prayers in their next pregnancy 40:50 Perspective on classifying people and couples who have lost as "parents"

Dr. Sonya Ye, our Chief Health Officer, is back to hear from parents across generations who share their preparation and experiences for childbirth. Sonya shares tools, resources and her perspective of the labor and delivery experience from a doctor’s point of view. The episode highlights things parents may not know about in going into labor and giving birth at a hospital. Episode Timestamps: 5:49 - Prenatal classes suggested to prepare for the big day. 8:00 - Importance of credible resources in gaining birth knowledge. The positives and downfalls of TikTok education. 18:47 - the big (delivery) day. Parents share what happened on their big day going into labor. 27:35 - Sonya gives us a rundown of how a birth experience might go. From noticing the early stages of labor, cervical ripening, to dilating and contracting. 35:00 - Details of induction and augmentation. Moving labor along. 49:40 - Sonya’s advice on advocating for yourself in the medical space. Looking for additional resources? Check out Sonya's shortlist on Ahma & Co's website: https://tinyurl.com/mrxmy6c7

A type A planner at heart, Nicole built a comprehensive birth plan with three scenarios and communicated with her hospital to set expectations. Given her low pain tolerance and spinal fusion, it was important for her to plan ahead. During the big delivery day, however, she found some shocking news that derailed her plans. This highlighted a lack of interdisciplinary communication and advocacy became even more important. Look to our website for more articles on motherhood: https://www.ahmaandco.com/ Want to stay connected? Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahmaandco/ Join our chatter room on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ahmaandco/ Episode Timestamps Family Planning 4:05 Birth planning with spinal fusion: 7:45 Induction and early labor starts 10:16 Change in delivery plans: 12:40 Elective Cesarean (C-Section) with Spinal and Birth: 19:05 Newborn phase / euphoria: 25:25 Post op, recovery and reflection: 28:15

Infertility is defined as the inability to get pregnant after a year of attempting to conceive. This impacts roughly 15% of couples in America. If you’re approaching your 30s or 40s and want to have a family some day, chances are, issues of fertility have crossed your mind. Perhaps you are currently struggling or know someone who has been trying for months or even years. In this episode with our Chief Health Officer Sonya Ye, we explore natural ways to boost fertility and get the body ready for pregnancy. By making lifestyle changes, you can increase your odds of conceiving, no matter if you are trying to get pregnant in your 20s or over 35. Look to our website for more articles on motherhood: https://www.ahmaandco.com/ Want to stay connected? Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahmaandco/ Join our chatter room on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ahmaandco/ Episode Timestamps Fertility Story: 7:30 Physical Activities and Exercise To Prepare Body Conception and Pregnancy: 12:00 Mental Health Mindset to Prepare for Fertility and Pregnancy: 14:10 Nutritious Diet and Supplements To Prepare Body For Conception and Pregnancy: 16:50 Things to Avoid When Trying To Get Pregnant: 25:52 Can You Breastfeed While Trying to Get Pregnant? 31:05 Charting Menstrual And Ovulation Cycles, Timing Intercourse To Get Pregnant: 34:22 Things for Male Partners and Sperm Donors To Consider When Trying To Conceive: 41:23

Happy New Year! It's a wonderful opportunity for reflection and intention. We sit down with Esther, Ahma & Co's founder and CEO to discuss accomplishments of the year and top secret plans for 2023. Margaret and Esther also share personal goals and their outlook for the new year. To be in the loop on our new developments, sign up on our website: https://www.ahmaandco.com/ Want to stay connected? Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahmaandco/ Join our chatter room on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ahmaandco/ Episode Timestamps Podcast Reflections and Outlook: 4:30 Ahma & Co Accomplishments 8:40 Ahma & Co Announcement 10:15 Personal Goals 14:52 Self Care and Love 21:00 Postnatal Care Accessibility 25:00

Writing a birth plan can be intimidating to first time moms and parents and this episode helps walk you through step-by-step and offers a free template. Taking the time to think through your options can help you or your partner better advocate in the delivery room. I felt empowered having done some research and decision-making prior to entering labor and it gave me the confidence I needed to have the birth experience I wanted. If you're an expecting mom, I hope this helps you frame your intentions. If you've gone through labor and delivery, I'd love to hear what you think of this template! Click here to get our birth plan! Look to our website for more articles on motherhood: https://www.ahmaandco.com/ Want to stay connected? Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahmaandco/ Join our chatter room on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ahmaandco/ Episode Timestamps 01:15 - Why a birth plan is essential 02:45 - How to get Ahma & Co's birth plan template 04:57 - Labor Options and Amenities 08:30 - Delivery Interventions 10:25 - Babycare / Post-Delivery Details

Is your family entering a new chapter and needing to decide amongst childcare options? Yobe, preschool teacher turned childcare center director and children's book publisher, gives us the inside scoop of what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to open the lines of communication with your childcare provider. Hear her take on topics from teaching philosophies to drawing a line with childcare providers babysitting off-hours. Yobe is a publisher of children's books fostering diversity and multicultural awareness of Asian communities. Check them out here: Books By Yobe Qiu  Look to our website for more articles on motherhood: https://www.ahmaandco.com/ Want to stay connected? Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahmaandco/ Join our chatter room on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ahmaandco/

October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month and Jessica opens up on miscarrying her first pregnancy. While still absorbing the shock of the non-viable fetus, due to unforeseen circumstances, she becomes temporarily isolated from her partner. Listen to her journey on conceiving again and how her first pregnancy impacted her experience later. If you are going through this journey and need support, reach out to your network and let your inner circle in. And if you’re looking for ways to support those in grief, take a look at our articles and Instagram for ideas and guidance. Check out our website for more articles on motherhood: https://www.ahmaandco.com/ Want to stay connected? Follow us on IG: https://www.instagram.com/ahmaandco/ Join our chatter room on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ahmaandco/