On the Outside

There’s so much focus on pregnancy and birth—but what about after? In this episode, I’m breaking down the physical changes that happen to your body during pregnancy, what actually happens immediately after birth, and the basics of postpartum healing. I’m also sharing key stats, what no one really tells you about recovery, and how to start preparing for postpartum beyond just the physical—because your emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being matter, too. In this episode, we talk about… Some info and stats on postpartum and postpartum depression Changes that happen to your body during pregnancy What happens to your body during pregnancy and immediately after The basics for postpartum physical healing What happens during postpartum, beyond the physical Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte — includes my baby registry picks and postpartum favorites Discount Codes: Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer / natural-cycles.sjv.io/xLQLkx Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776. Disclaimer: The information shared on On the Outside is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a doctor, medical professional, or licensed healthcare provider. The content of this podcast is based on my personal experiences and research, but it should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your pregnancy, health, or well-being. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be right for another.

Feeling overwhelmed by all the to-dos? In this episode, I’m sharing the top things to remember each trimester, how to stay organized, and the tools that have helped me manage all the tasks that come with preparing for parenthood. In this episode, we talk about… Top things to remember to do each trimester How to stay organized Tools for managing all of the tasks that come with becoming a parent Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte — includes my baby registry picks and postpartum favorites Discount Codes: Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer / natural-cycles.sjv.io/xLQLkx Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776. Disclaimer: The information shared on On the Outside is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a doctor, medical professional, or licensed healthcare provider. The content of this podcast is based on my personal experiences and research, but it should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your pregnancy, health, or well-being. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be right for another.

If you’ve ever wondered what a doula actually does—or whether you really need one—this episode is for you. I’m breaking down what doulas do, why having one can make a huge difference in your birth experience, and why Black women and other marginalized birthing people may especially benefit from this kind of support. Whether you’re already pregnant or just planning ahead, this is essential info for an empowered, supported birth. In this episode, we talk about… What is a doula, and what do they do Why you might want a doula, including  why Black women & marginalized folks might especially want one How to find a doula, including free & subsidized doula programs in the U.S. and the average cost of a doula My personal experience with my doula Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte — includes my baby registry picks and postpartum favorites Discount Codes: Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer / natural-cycles.sjv.io/xLQLkx Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776. Disclaimer: The information shared on On the Outside is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a doctor, medical professional, or licensed healthcare provider. The content of this podcast is based on my personal experiences and research, but it should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your pregnancy, health, or well-being. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be right for another.

Let’s talk birth prep—because labor might be unpredictable, but preparing for it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, I’m sharing the products, tools, and practices that have been game-changers in my third trimester. From childbirth education to creating a birth plan that actually reflects your values, we’re covering it all. I also break down why pelvic floor strength, core stability, and mobility are key for labor. Whether you’re weeks away from delivery or just starting to plan, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you feel informed, empowered, and ready. In this episode, we talk about… Some products and tools I’ve loved using and recommend for birth preparation What preparation in terms of childbirth education might look like, including online courses, in-person courses and books I’ve learned a lot from Creating a birth plan Why Pelvic Floor, Core Strength & Mobility for Labor are important and how you can implement them into your routine And other useful tools to prepare for childbirth Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte — includes my baby registry picks and postpartum favorites Discount Codes: Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer / natural-cycles.sjv.io/xLQLkx Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776. Disclaimer: The information shared on On the Outside is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a doctor, medical professional, or licensed healthcare provider. The content of this podcast is based on my personal experiences and research, but it should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your pregnancy, health, or well-being. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be right for another.

In this solo episode, I’m sharing all the updates from week 32 of pregnancy—what’s feeling good, what’s feeling not so good, and how I’m mentally, physically, and emotionally preparing for birth. From baby kicks to birth plans to third-trimester cravings, come along as I keep it real about this wild, beautiful journey. Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte — includes my baby registry picks and postpartum favorites Discount Codes: Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer / natural-cycles.sjv.io/xLQLkx Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776. Disclaimer: The information shared on On the Outside is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a doctor, medical professional, or licensed healthcare provider. The content of this podcast is based on my personal experiences and research, but it should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your pregnancy, health, or well-being. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be right for another.

From your first ultrasound to glucose tests and beyond, we’re breaking down what actually happens at prenatal appointments. Whether you're newly pregnant or getting close to delivery, this episode is your guide to feeling informed and empowered at every stage. Let’s get into medications, procedures and choices that YOU get to make. In this episode, we talk about… What to expect in terms of doctor's appointments during pregnancy What type of testing most commonly happens What medical interventions you might expect around labor and delivery Remember, this might be different state to state or country to country  Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte — includes my baby registry picks and postpartum favorites Discount Codes: Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer / natural-cycles.sjv.io/xLQLkx Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776. Disclaimer: The information shared on On the Outside is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a doctor, medical professional, or licensed healthcare provider. The content of this podcast is based on my personal experiences and research, but it should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your pregnancy, health, or well-being. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be right for another.

Pregnancy vitamins can be overwhelming, but I’ve got you covered. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about prenatal vitamins—from the must-have nutrients to spotting quality brands and certifications that actually matter. In this episode, we talk about… The purpose of prenatal vitamins How prenatal vitamins differ and why there are so many different formulations How to find high-quality prenatal vitamins and why this is important When you should start (and stop) taking a prenatal vitamin The importance of folic acid above all other supplements Other prenatal vitamins that are recommended Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte — includes my baby registry picks and postpartum favorites Discount Codes: Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer / natural-cycles.sjv.io/xLQLkx Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776. Disclaimer: The information shared on On the Outside is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a doctor, medical professional, or licensed healthcare provider. The content of this podcast is based on my personal experiences and research, but it should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your pregnancy, health, or well-being. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be right for another.

Conception isn’t just about the person carrying the baby! Think it's all on mom? Think again—this episode breaks down how a future dad’s health, especially semen quality, can influence conception, pregnancy outcomes, maternal health, and even baby’s long-term well-being. In this episode, we talk about… How sperm health impacts fertility and baby’s long-term health How semen quality impacts mom Key factors affecting sperm health & fertility like nutrition and supplementation, sleep and stress, substance use, environmental toxins and lifestyle factors Timing and planning to implement these changes And my husband’s specific preconception protocol Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte — includes my baby registry picks and postpartum favorites Discount Codes: Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer / natural-cycles.sjv.io/xLQLkx Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776. Disclaimer: The information shared on On the Outside is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a doctor, medical professional, or licensed healthcare provider. The content of this podcast is based on my personal experiences and research, but it should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your pregnancy, health, or well-being. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be right for another.

Trying to conceive isn’t just about timing—it’s about optimizing your body and mind. I’ll take you through my personal preconception plan, from supplementation and sobriety to mindset shifts, so you can feel empowered on your own journey. In this episode, we talk about… Everything I did starting 2 years before TTC and my specific, detailed personal protocol timeline We’ll cover lifestyle changes I made: Nutrition, hydration, stress management. sleep and limiting toxins Supplements and vitamins My mental health preparation, including how me and my husband prepared as a team Medical appointments I made before getting pregnant How cycle tracking worked for me And I’ll share the books and types of research I consulted if you want to learn more Remember, everyone’s journey is different. This is what worked for me and lead to a great pregnancy outcome, but there’s only so much we can control. For me, I knew doing as much as I possibly could would help me feel my best, knowing I tried my best and gave my best effort. I didn’t want to have any regrets or wish I had done things differently, so I gave myself peace of mind but locking into what the research says and giving it my best shot. I hope this episode helps demystify some of the information out there and helps you find a game plan for your preconception journey if that’s what you’re looking for! Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte — includes my baby registry picks and postpartum favorites Discount Codes: Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer / natural-cycles.sjv.io/xLQLkx Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776. Disclaimer: The information shared on On the Outside is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a doctor, medical professional, or licensed healthcare provider. The content of this podcast is based on my personal experiences and research, but it should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your pregnancy, health, or well-being. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be right for another.

Thinking about getting pregnant? In this episode, we break down the basics of preconception health, why it matters, and how you can set yourself up for a smooth journey into pregnancy. In this episode, we talk about… Why preconception health is important Some basic statistics on TTC Key areas to consider and adjust in your life if you’re trying to improve your preconception health Understanding your cycle and fertility Male partner’s role in preconception health Emotional and mental preparation for TTC This is the first of 10 episodes in this season, and I’ll be deep diving into several of these topics in their own episode, but this is an initial overview. There is SO much information out there, so my goal is to synthesize it as much as possible so you don't have to do all of the reading and research that I did! Next week, I’ll be deep-diving into my own personal preconception protocol that worked amazingly well for me, so look for that one. I came to this information through reading several books and a lot of peer-reviewed research published in medical and scientific journals. On the website, I’ve linked all of the sources for this episode as always. Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte — includes my baby registry picks and postpartum favorites Discount Codes: Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer / natural-cycles.sjv.io/xLQLkx Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776. Disclaimer: The information shared on On the Outside is for informational and educational purposes only. I am not a doctor, medical professional, or licensed healthcare provider. The content of this podcast is based on my personal experiences and research, but it should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your pregnancy, health, or well-being. Every pregnancy is unique, and what works for one person may not be right for another.

Pregnancy is a time of excitement, transformation, and, let’s be real, feeling completely on the outside of your own body. In this season, I’m bringing you the raw, unfiltered truth about growing a human—from preconception prep to postpartum recovery. Whether it’s navigating doctor’s appointments or dealing with all the wild changes no one warns you about, we’re talking about it. Because even in one of life’s most universal experiences, it’s easy to feel like an outsider—but you’re not alone. See you out there. Resources: Follow me at @taylorraeroman, everywhere Full episode transcription and citations: https://taylorraeroman.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraeroman.com Instagram @taylorraeroman TikTok @taylorraeroman YouTube @taylorraeroman ShopMy: https://shopmy.us/taylorraeroman Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/taylorraealmonte The content in this season of On the Outside is based on my personal experiences and research. I am not a medical professional, and nothing shared should be taken as medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions related to pregnancy, preconception, or your health. Natural Cycles: Use code TAYLORRAE for 15% off an annual plan + free thermometer Tinyhood: Use code TAYLORR20 for 20% off up to 12 months of membership / https://tinyhood.sjv.io/c/2688864/957205/12776

Thank you so much for listening to On the Outside. I can't wait for what's in store for Season 2 and beyond. I see you. I'm with you. See you out there. Resources: Follow @taylorraealmonte Full episode transcription and citations: https://www.taylorraealmonte.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraealmonte.com Instagram @taylorraealmonte TikTok @itstaylorraealmonte YouTube /@TaylorRaeAlmonte

In today’s episode I talk to Tara Nicolas, @taraanicolas. Tara is a NYC based actor,  Global Nike Trainer, Reiki Master, and Meditation Instructor. We Talk About… Acting Wellness Fitness Being first generation American Cultural Identity Dance and artistic pursuits Immigrant experiences  Financial struggles and career choices Self care Fibroids  Fertility Resources: Follow @taraanicolas Full episode transcription and citations: https://www.taylorraealmonte.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraealmonte.com Instagram @taylorraealmonte TikTok @itstaylorraealmonte YouTube /@TaylorRaeAlmonte Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this episode, I share some background on what "abolition" means when talking about America's prison and policing system. We Talk About… Prison abolition Mass incarceration Racial disparities The war on drugs The school to prison pipeline Privatization of prisons Recidivism The need for an intersectional approach Mental health in prisons Economic inequality Labor exploitation Shifting from punishment to rehabilitation Community investment to address the root causes of crime Resources: Follow @taylorraealmonte Check out Angela Davis and Kimberlé Crenshaw Full episode transcription and citations: https://www.taylorraealmonte.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraealmonte.com Instagram @taylorraealmonte TikTok @itstaylorraealmonte YouTube /@TaylorRaeAlmonte Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this episode, Thalia Romina  @thethaliaromina and I talk about her feeling on the outside as a female comedian. We Talk About… Corporate environment Microaggressions Diversity and inclusion Hair and identity Racism and microaggressions Corporate culture and authenticity The Crown Act Resources: Follow @sugashai Full episode transcription and citations: https://www.taylorraealmonte.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraealmonte.com Instagram @taylorraealmonte TikTok @itstaylorraealmonte YouTube /@TaylorRaeAlmonte Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In today’s episode I talk to Kira West, @bykwest. Kira is a Brooklyn born content creator, runner and writer with a passion for making wellness more inclusive. We Talk About…  Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Wellness and Fitness Industry Racism and Marginalization Personal Growth and Self-Care Advocacy Work and Impact of ACTIV-ISM Educational Background and Experiences  Founding of Sanity Miles Work-Life Balance and Societal Change  Experiences of Racism Resources: Follow @bykwest ACTIV-ISM E Book: https://www.activ-ism.com/get-active  Full episode transcription and citations: https://www.taylorraealmonte.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraealmonte.com Instagram @taylorraealmonte TikTok @itstaylorraealmonte YouTube /@TaylorRaeAlmonte This episode is supported by the University Life Social Justice Mini-Grant Program. To learn more about the Social Justice Mini-Grant Program visit: https://universitylife.columbia.edu/social-justice-mini-grant-program.

In this episode, I share a few stories about feeling like an outsider growing up and how being bullied for my hair texture impacted my entire life. We Talk About… Being bullied Mean teachers My hair journey Resources: Follow @taylorraealmonte Full episode transcription and citations: https://www.taylorraealmonte.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraealmonte.com Instagram @taylorraealmonte TikTok @itstaylorraealmonte YouTube /@TaylorRaeAlmonte Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this episode, I talk to my cousin, Shailyn Tirado, about Blackness as an Afro-Latina, and more specifically, in our Dominican culture. We Talk About… Being Afro-Latina Colorism Being Dominican Distinctions between race and ethnicity The role of platforms in anti-racism education The influence of colonialism, and African ancestry on self-identification Resources: Follow @sugarshai Full episode transcription and citations: https://www.taylorraealmonte.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraealmonte.com Instagram @taylorraealmonte TikTok @itstaylorraealmonte YouTube /@TaylorRaeAlmonte Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In today’s episode I talk to Jordan Myrick, @jordanmyr1ck. Jordan is a writer, comedian, and actor. You can see Jordan in tons of comedy projects and all over TikTok. We Talk About… Being queer online Content creation Online hate and harassment Challenges of monetizing hobbies and passions Having tough conversations Anxieties faced by young Americans Parasocial relationships Resources: Follow @jordanmyr1ck Full episode transcription and citations: https://www.taylorraealmonte.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraealmonte.com Instagram @taylorraealmonte TikTok @itstaylorraealmonte YouTube /@TaylorRaeAlmonte Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.

In this episode, I share some foundational education around America's mass incarceration problem. As I finish my masters in Human Rights with a concentration on mass incarceration, I wanted to provide more insight after last week's episode, sharing my anecdotal experience teaching inside. We Talk About… Mass incarceration Historical prison boom The 13th Amendment The War on Drugs, Southern Strategy, War on Crime The bail system Racism and incarceration Resources: Follow @taylorraealmonte See my previous newsletters here: https://www.taylorraealmonte.com/newsletter  Full episode transcription and citations: https://www.taylorraealmonte.com/on-the-outside-podcast Keep In Touch: Visit taylorraealmonte.com Instagram @taylorraealmonte TikTok @itstaylorraealmonte YouTube /@TaylorRaeAlmonte This episode is supported by the University Life Social Justice Mini-Grant Program. To learn more about the Social Justice Mini-Grant Program visit: https://universitylife.columbia.edu/social-justice-mini-grant-program.