BDA Baby (Before, During and After Baby)

This week we got to talk with Glen Henry the founder of Beleaf in Fatherhood. Their mission is to “equip fathers to Love and Lead their families into eternity” and Glen is doing just that. Today, Glen shares about his decision to become a stay-at-home father, and what it was like to step into the role of a full-time caregiver. Glen encourages every dad to make sure to take an active role in parenting. He tells us that men can learn so much from parenting, making them not just fathers, but father figures. Glen hopes that every dad can learn to be present and involved in their kid’s lives and find joy in it!  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with actress, director, and author Lake Bell to talk about her deeply personal journey as a mother, and the inspiration behind her new children’s book All About Brains. Sparked by her daughter’s epilepsy diagnosis, Lake shares how her family reshaped the narrative around neurological differences—turning fear and confusion into empowerment and pride.    We discuss the importance of using real language with kids, raising awareness around neurodiversity, and how representation and open conversation can help children feel seen, safe, and celebrated. Lake also opens up about parenting challenges, co-parenting, and what it means to model imperfection with honesty and grace.    Whether you're a parent, caregiver, educator, or simply someone who wants to better understand and support neurodiverse kids—this episode is full of wisdom, compassion, and practical takeaways.    Listen now and grab a copy of All About Brains here: https://amzn.to/44WlqGk  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video! 

Gaby Dalkin joins us this week to share her journey to conceiving her daughter Poppy, and the struggles she went through along the way. At the time, Poppy was just a few weeks old, and Gaby was living the freshly postpartum life. She shares with us that she went through five miscarriages on her journey to having Poppy, and that she hopes all moms with similar experiences know they are not alone. So many women experience miscarriage, and Gaby hopes sharing her story can help destigmatize the conversation around miscarriage and fertility struggles.   Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, I sit down with Victoria Thain Gioia, co-founder and CEO of Perelel, to talk about the deeply personal experience that led her to start the company. After learning that her daughter’s birth defect could have been nutrition-related, Victoria began asking hard questions about the gaps in prenatal care and why so many women are left without clear, reliable support during such a crucial time.She shares how that moment of heartbreak became the driving force behind Perelel, what she’s learned about pregnancy loss, what it really means to support a mother through conception, pregnancy, and postpartum, and how she balances being a CEO and mom of four.This conversation is an honest look at the maternal health space, how far we still have to go, and the power of turning pain into purpose. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the choices, unsure of what your body really needs, or just wanted to feel less alone in this journey—this one’s for you.  Shop Perelel Health here: https://go.shopmy.us/p-17100145  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Eva Chen joins us this week to talk all about her book I Am Golden. At the time of recording, her book had just come out, and we go into all of the details that went into creating such an important book for children. I Am Golden follows the story of a daughter to Chinese immigrants in New York, much like Eva’s own story. Today, we talk about her inspiration for creating this book, and how her own experiences shaped Mei’s story in I Am Golden. We also touch on some of her experience as a person of AAPI descent, especially in New York during COVID. Eva explains that she hopes that I Am Golden can serve as positive representation for children of immigrants, and help them see ways to connect with their heritage no matter their age.   Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend Carson Meyer to talk about her beautiful new book, Growing Together: Doula Wisdom and Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth, and Early Motherhood. We reflect on our own journeys into motherhood and dive into the inspiration behind Carson’s work as a doula, writer, and advocate for women navigating pregnancy and postpartum.   Carson shares how she was first drawn to birth work, her experience writing a deeply personal book while becoming a mother herself, and why reframing the way we view birth is so important. We talk about the power of choice in pregnancy, how to feel more empowered in your care, and the evolving role of partners in the birth space today. This conversation is filled with insights about honoring your intuition, creating supportive birth environments, and embracing the transformation that comes with becoming a parent. Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or simply curious about this path, Carson’s perspective offers both grounding and inspiration. Get her book here: https://amzn.to/4jgKP1O (edited)  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Co-parenting is such a challenging task, and today Eva Amurri joins us to share insights into how she and her ex-husband have made this new parenting dynamic work for themselves. Eva explains that forgiveness and self awareness are some of the most important things to practice when co-parenting after a divorce. In order to show up as the best parents for our children, we have to make sure we’re taking care of ourselves and know when to let some things go. Eva reminds us that disagreements are bound to come up, but centering our children and their needs will help make sure we are navigating these situations as best as possible. She hopes that sharing more about her own co-parenting journey will help destigmatize the process for others.      Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Starting solids can feel overwhelming, especially with so much conflicting advice out there. In this episode, I’m joined by pediatric registered dietitian and IBCLC Cinthia Scott to talk about her evidence-based, low-pressure approach to baby-led weaning. As a mom, I wanted to understand how to introduce food in a way that feels calm, safe, and empowering—for both parent and baby. Cinthia breaks down the biggest misconceptions around starting solids, offers advice on when and how to begin, explains how to handle allergen introduction, and shares practical tips for building your baby’s confidence and curiosity around food. If you’re navigating this chapter or just want to feel more supported through it, this episode is for you. Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video! 

Emily DiDonato joins us this week to dive into what its like to be a mother while also being a business owner and model. When we spoke, Emily’s baby was just barely one year old and she had just co-founded the skincare brand Covey. In this episode, she shares how she balances all of these aspects of her life and tackles mom guilt that can come up while being a working mother. We also talk about being pregnant while being a model, and how Emily deals with some of the insecurities that can come up while being pregnant and postpartum. Emily also shares how she is hoping to help her own daughter foster a positive self image by leading by example. She explains that becoming a mom and business owner has shifted her perspective and body positivity and self confidence is so important.  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video! 

In this episode, I sit down with world-renowned clinical psychologist and conscious parenting expert Dr. Shefali. We talk about what it really means to parent with presence, and how doing the inner work as adults is essential for raising emotionally grounded kids. Dr. Shefali breaks down the concept of conscious parenting—why it’s not about being perfect, and how it’s actually a path toward healing our own inner child. She shares powerful advice on letting go of cultural pressure, resetting our nervous systems, and raising children with intention instead of control. We also talk about how meditation has transformed my own parenting, and why creating stillness, boundaries, and joy for ourselves is one of the greatest gifts we can give our kids. Dr. Shefali’s insights are grounding, inspiring, and a reminder that parenting isn’t about performance—it’s about presence. Whether you’re in the thick of toddler tantrums, navigating teen years, or doing the inner work for yourself, this conversation will leave you feeling supported and empowered. Get her book, "The Conscious Parent" here: https://amzn.to/3RHiVzT Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video! 

Eden Grinshpan joins us this week to talk all about picking eating and getting our kids to try new foods. Eden is a chef and mom, and she has such great tips on how to introduce new foods to kids. She encourages parents to demonstrate curiosity to their kids when trying something new alongside modeling different ways to interact with a new food. Eden also encourages parents to get their kids involved in the cooking process as a way to help them take ownership over what they’rea eating. Picky eating can be so difficult to address, but helping our kids feel empowered at meal time can go a long way! And of course, Eden shares some great nutritious recipes for parents and kids as well.  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, I’m joined by pediatric dermatologist, founder of KOREJ skincare, and mom of five, Dr. Laura Scott, to talk all things pediatric skincare — from navigating newborn rashes to what ingredients really matter in your child’s routine. We get into what’s normal (and what’s not) with baby skin, tips for toddlers and tweens, and how to cut through the noise when it comes to clean, “natural,” and pregnancy-safe products. Dr. Scott also shares how her own motherhood journey, including the challenges of navigating skincare during pregnancy, inspired her to create a line of thoughtful, purpose-driven skincare for women in all stages of motherhood. Whether you’re curious about cradle cap, eczema, endocrine disruptors, or how to start teaching healthy skincare habits early — this conversation is filled with clarity, empathy, and so much real talk. Be sure to check out her skincare brand here: https://go.shopmy.us/p-15423886 Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video! 

This week we sit down with Dr. Teresa Purzner to talk about how we can support our kids’ brain development through nutrition. Dr, Purzner is a neurosurgeon and the creator of Cerebelly: a baby food brand aimed at supporting growing brains. Today, Dr. Purzner tells us that our brains need 16 key nutrients to help support brain development. It’s especially important that our kids get these nutrients in their early years, since their brains are almost fully grown by the time they’re five years old! Dr. Purzner shares some great tips today on how to make sure our kids are getting these nutrients, and even how we can get them in when our children are picky eaters. She also reminds us that of course, no one is perfect, and making small changes in our kid’s nutrition can still have lasting benefits on their development.    Visit the Cerebelly website to learn more!   https://cerebelly.com/  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, I sit down with therapists and authors Ashley Graber, who is my step-parent coach, and Maria Evans to talk about their new book Raising Calm Kids in a World of Worry. It’s a powerful, practical guide to easing anxiety in kids — and in ourselves — through mindful, emotionally attuned parenting.  We talk about the real pressures facing today’s parents, from screen time and scary headlines to the everyday stress of trying to do it all. Ashley and Maria break down their “SAFER” parenting model and share tools to help you regulate your own nervous system so you can show up calmly and confidently for your kids. This episode is especially meaningful to me as a parent and a stepparent. Ashley has been my go-to step parenting coach since day one, and we talk about how this book is filled with support not just for parents, but for anyone raising or helping raise children — including stepparents, caregivers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and chosen family.  Whether you’re trying to support an anxious child, reflect on your own upbringing, or just parent with more grace and intention, this conversation is filled with empathy, practical advice, and so much heart. Order their book here: https://amzn.to/3FEebIu  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Dr. Tina Payne Bryson joins us this week to share some great advice on discipline and setting boundaries with our kids. Dr. Bryson emphasizes that discipline should focus on helping our children becoming self motivated humans that are empowered and make good choices on their own. She encourages parents to set and keep boundaries and view discipline as a way to teach our children how to regulate themselves and their behavior. As parents, we’re teaching our kids everything about the world, and by modeling behavior and enforcing boundaries, we can help them grow into the best versions of themselves.  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, I sit down with Emily Oster — economist, best-selling author, and founder of Parent Data — to talk about her latest program, TTC, designed to provide science-backed guidance for those trying to conceive.Emily breaks down what the data really says about fertility, egg freezing, and lifestyle factors that can impact your journey. She dives into common myths about conception, including the truth about fertility diets, environmental factors, and sperm health.   She also shares valuable insights on egg freezing — when to consider it, what to expect, and the science behind its effectiveness. Whether you’re navigating infertility, exploring egg freezing, or just want to better understand your fertility, this episode is filled with clear, empowering information to help you make informed decisions. Emily also offers thoughtful advice for supporting loved ones on their TTC journey. I’m so excited for you to hear this conversation — listen now for science-backed insights and real talk on fertility, family planning, and what actually works. Check out her books here: https://amzn.to/3DBmpAM Please join us wherever you listen to podcasts to hear our conversation and so many more!  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bda-baby-before-during-and-after-baby/id1741838862

This week we’re joined by Dr. Sherry Ross to talk all things fertility. Dr. Ross is an OBGYN and the author of Sheology and Sheology the She-quel. She is an expert on all things women’s health, and today she shares some great tips for people that want to start taking control of their fertility. She encourages women to start thinking about their fertility as early as their twenties, and gives some simple ways to get an idea of your fertility like AMH testing. Dr. Ross  encourages everyone to be their own advocate and to not be afraid to seek a second opinion when you’re starting to look into your fertility. Dr. Ross also advocates for all women to learn their bodies and take control of their own pleasure. Whether in the bedroom or the doctor’s office, it’s important to advocate for yourself and be educated on what’s happening with your body.    Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

In this episode, I sit down with Elle Rowley, founder of Solly Baby, to hear the inspiring story behind her iconic baby wrap—a product that has become a staple for parents navigating postpartum life.  Elle shares how her journey began when she was a mom of two, juggling a colicky baby and a toddler. Out of necessity, she designed her first Solly Wrap using fabric from LA’s garment district and quickly realized she had created something special.  We dive into:  The early days of sewing wraps by hand and sending them to bloggers  How Elle balanced building a business while raising her children  Why she proudly brought her babies to meetings—and how it became a surprising advantage  Her advice for moms with big ideas, including how to turn those ideas into reality  The importance of investing in mom-founded businesses and supporting women entrepreneurs  Whether you're a new parent looking for practical baby gear or an entrepreneur seeking inspiration, Elle’s story is a powerful reminder that some of the best ideas come from life’s most challenging moments. Tune in now to hear her journey and the lessons she’s learned along the way and Shop Solly Baby here: https://go.shopmy.us/p-14268843  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

Dr. Sarah Oreck joins us today to dive into postpartum mental health, and how our hormones can play a role in managing our mental wellbeing after giving birth. Dr. Oreck is a specialist in reproductive psychiatry, and today she shares insights into managing metal health in the pre and postpartum period. One of the biggest changes moms will experience after giving birth is the hormone drop, and Dr. Oreck shares how that impacts a mother’s mental health. Dr. Oreck also gives some great tools for moms to monitor and manage their mental health as well as how to know the difference between baby blues and something more severe like postpartum anxiety or depression. We also touch on how to manage mental health when dealing with infertility, and how to support the people in our lives who might be struggling with these issues. Whether postpartum or trying to conceive, having support and taking care of our mental health is so important!  Visit the links below to learn more and get support: https://www.postpartum.net/  https://womensmentalhealth.org/  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!

This episode was recorded before my baby arrived, and I’m so excited to finally share it with you!  In this episode, I sit down with Kate Love, an entrepreneur, model, and mother, who is preparing to welcome her second child. Kate shares an honest and unfiltered look at her pregnancy journey—from battling persistent nausea and exhaustion to navigating the unexpected guilt of balancing pregnancy with parenting a toddler. She also opens up about why she’s chosen to keep this pregnancy more private, how she’s managing her own expectations vs. social media’s version of pregnancy, and what it was like giving birth during the NBA Finals while her husband was on the court.    Join us for a candid conversation about the challenges of pregnancy, the realities of motherhood, and the importance of giving yourself grace in the process.  Please join us on YouTube for our full conversation and many more on video!