Chick Chat

Today, we're discussing a subject that plays a crucial role in many people's lives: birth control. I had the pleasure of chatting with our guest, Dr. Bana Kashani, about this topic in great detail. Dr. Kashani provided tremendous medical insights and discussed the various forms of contraception, what to expect with each, and debunked some common myths. Birth control isn't just about preventing pregnancy—it's about empowerment, choice, and taking control of your health. Whether you're thinking about changing the current birth control you're on, needing to consider your options after you have baby (if you're pregnant), curious about how different methods work, or just looking to understand more about this important aspect of reproductive health, this episode is for you. We navigated through the maze of pills, patches, IUDs, and more so that you can make an informed decision that best suits your lifestyle and needs. Now, let's meet our guest! Who is Dr. Bana Kashani? Dr. Bana Kashani is double board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology as well as Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She has been treating infertility patients since 2014 and has been practicing in Orange County, where she grew up, since 2017. Dr. Kashani received her medical degree from the University of South Alabama, College of Medicine, where she graduated at the top of her class, and she completed her residency at the University of Southern California. There, she received tremendous experience in all facets of Obstetrics and Gynecology but specifically had an interest in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility. She continued her medical training and pursued a subspecialty in Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility at Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School. Since Dr. Kashani is focused on providing her patients with the most personalized approach to fertility services and treatments, she opened up her own practice in 2020. Her practice’s mission is to ensure patients feel comfortable and cared for since infertility treatments can be overwhelming. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Dr. Bana Kashani about navigating birth control. In a rapidly evolving landscape of reproductive health, navigating the variety of birth control options can be overwhelming. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: How do you help patients determine which birth control method is best suited for them? What factors should individuals take into consideration when selecting birth control to meet their needs? What are the most common forms of birth control available? Can you talk about the efficacy of these methods? What are the main differences between barrier methods and hormonal methods? When talking specifically about hormonal birth control, how effective is it in preventing pregnancy, and is there any negative impact on fertility when used for an extended period of time? Can you explain what Long-Acting Reversible Contraceptives (LARCs) are and how they differ from other forms of birth control? What are the benefits and drawbacks of LARCs compared to other methods? What are some common side effects associated with different types of birth control? We know that it can be overwhelming when navigating the world of birth control, but we hope this episode leaves you feeling more knowledgeable about the different forms of contraception as well as empowered to choose the right form for you. Dr. Kashani's Resources Website: www.banakashanimd.com Instagram: @dr.banakashani Thank you for listening to this episode! Be sure to follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat. Let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to being empowered to make your own choices! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This discussion was a good one and about several topics that I am so incredibly passionate about: women's choice of care, midwives, evidence-based birth practices, and better birth outcomes. Dr. Darrell Martin shared so many fascinating stories and talked to us all about his experience advocating for women's choice in healthcare, his support of midwives, and the five key roles of midwives in creating a safe birthing environment. I was smiling from ear to ear throughout our entire conversation because I kept thinking, "YES! This doctor GETS IT." And I want everyone to know what he knows and his story. Who is Dr. Darrell Martin? Dr. Darrell Martin is a gynecologist and a dedicated healthcare advocate with four decades of expertise in women’s health. His dedication to patient care and choice propelled him to testify before Congress, championing the rights of Certified Nurse Midwives and advocating for patients' freedom to select their healthcare providers. A standout moment in his career was his fervent support for nurse-midwifery in Nashville, Tennessee, showcasing his commitment to advancing the profession. Additionally, Dr. Martin takes great pride in having played a pivotal role in more than 5,000 births, marking a legacy of life and joy he has helped bring into the world. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Dr. Darrell Martin about midwifery and the five key roles of midwives in creating a safe birthing environment. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: How did you become passionate about women's health, midwifery, and patient rights? Please give us a brief explanation of what a midwife is and what their role encompasses in the context of childbirth. Also, to our listeners, tune in to our episode #43: What is a Midwife? for more information! In your opinion, how is the role of a midwife different from an OB/GYN when it comes to childbirth? Please tell us about the five key roles of midwives in creating a safe birthing environment. How do you believe midwives contribute to a positive birthing experience for individuals and their families? What are some common challenges or misconceptions that midwives face in their practice? How do you see the role of midwives evolving in the future of childbirth? It was a pure delight chatting with Dr. Martin about midwifery care and his beliefs about women's care and childbirth. His passion, perseverance, and commitment to evidence-based, patient-centered care are leading to meaningful change, and we hope to see more of it! Dr. Martin's Resources Website: darrellmartinbooks.com Book: Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to midwifery and safe, beautiful births!! (GO TO SHOW NOTES FOR MORE!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When you and your partner are ready to start your family, it's a wonderful and exciting time! If you are in a cis-hetero relationship, this is when you begin "trying" and hope to see a positive confirmation on your next pregnancy test. But for many couples, it isn't so easy. According to a 2023 World Health Organization report, about 1 in 6 people worldwide experience infertility. This is heartbreaking, and the road to having a child becomes a lot more difficult. Thankfully, there are several things couples can consider during their fertility journey, and one of them might be acupuncture. I've heard a lot of great things about acupuncture, so I had to learn more and talk to an expert. Who is Dr. Haley Parker? Dr. Haley Parker is a State Board Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist in Virginia, Washington D.C., Maryland, New Jersey, and Georgia. Haley received her Master’s Degree in The Science of Oriental Medicine from Southwest Acupuncture College in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Her background as a Division 1 athlete contributed to her successful strategy of working with student-athletes on sports-related psychological and competitive performance. Her passion for teaching was ignited, and she joined the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine in 2021 to teach the practice management and clinical communications curriculum. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Dr. Haley about acupuncture and fertility and what people who are having a tougher time conceiving need to know. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: In what ways can women particularly benefit from acupuncture? Can acupuncture really improve fertility? What's the science behind it? What are some common misconceptions about acupuncture's role in fertility, and how can they be addressed? What specific acupuncture techniques are believed to enhance fertility, and how do they work? Can acupuncture be used as a standalone treatment for fertility issues, or is it usually combined with other interventions? Are there any risks associated with acupuncture for fertility? Are there any lifestyle changes that you recommended alongside acupuncture for fertility? Do you have any tips and first steps for someone who is exploring acupuncture to help with their fertility journey? Dr. Haley is a wealth of knowledge on this topic and really broke down what people need to know about acupuncture, how it can potentially help with their fertility journey, and what to expect. Be sure to listen or share this episode with someone who wants to learn more about acupuncture and how it can positively impact their fertility. Dr. Haley's Resources Website: VUIM Clinic Instagram: @dr.haley.vuim Facebook: Dr. Haley Parker LinkedIn: Dr. Haley Parker Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to your fertility journey! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everything changes the moment you find out you're pregnant. Priorities change, lifestyle choices change, and your whole world changes. You realize you are no longer just taking care of yourself. Caring for your baby becomes the priority. You may become protective and think about what you're exposing yourself to, including harsh chemicals and toxins. It's normal during pregnancy for women to rethink the products they're bringing into their homes and how they may affect their growing baby. Our guest, Sophia Ruan Gushée, can absolutely relate. After her pregnancy with her firstborn, her passion for a nontoxic life was ignited. Since then, she has created an empire to help others detox their lives. Today, she's answering our questions and sharing her expert tips on detoxifying your home for your newborns, kids, and family. Who is Sophia Ruan Gushée? Sophia is a nontoxic lifestyle expert and author of A to Z of D-Toxing: The Ultimate Guide to Reducing Our Toxic Exposures and several detox workbooks. She is praised by experts in both medical and wellness fields for her practical approach to avoiding toxins and cultivating a healthier home environment. A graduate of Brown University and Columbia Business School, Sophia has helped thousands of people enjoy healthier lives by simplifying nontoxic living while protecting the ease and convenience of modern life. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Sophia about detoxifying your home for your family, why it is important, and how to do it. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: Why is it important for us to consider detoxifying our homes, specifically for newborns and young children? What are some common toxins or pollutants found in homes that parents may not be aware of? Can you share some practical tips for identifying and removing toxins from our homes? What are the top areas or aspects of a home that parents should focus on when detoxifying for their children's health? Are there any specific household products or materials that parents should be especially cautious of? What are some of the long-term benefits of maintaining a detoxified home environment for children's health and well-being? How can parents effectively communicate the importance of home detoxification to other family members or caregivers coming into their home? What resources or tools do you recommend for parents who want to learn more about and get started in detoxifying their homes for their children's and family’s health? It was an enlightening conversation that really got me interested in how I can create a healthier space for myself and my family. Tune in to learn more! Sophia's Resources Website: www.ruanliving.com Instagram: @ruanliving Facebook: @Ruan Living LinkedIn: Sophia Ruan Gushée TikTok: @ruanliving Book: A to Z of D-Toxing: The Ultimate Guide to Reducing Our Toxic Exposures Sophia's Podcast: Practical Nontoxic Living Podcast Her D-tox Academy Mentioned in the episode: Environmental Health Trust Tech Wellness Dr. Bronner's castile soap Think Dirty app Healthy Living app - EWG Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to detoxing your home for you and your growing family! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many things may change over the years, but something that we want to instill in our kids is that it's always cool to be kind. In my opinion, kindness is beginning to be a lost art in our world. We hear so much negativity and unkind things in the news and media that it's spilling into our everyday lives. Fortunately, we are our children's greatest teachers (and they are ours). We can make a difference in our world by starting at home. Teaching our kids the power of kindness can lead to so many wonderful things for them. Our guest, Rachel Tomlinson, knows all about it (she literally wrote the book) and is sharing her words of wisdom. Who is Rachel Tomlinson? Rachel Tomlinson is a registered psychologist and internationally published author of "Teaching Kids to Be Kind" and "A Blue Kind of Day" (a picture book on depression). Rachel has worked with adults, families, and children (birth through 18 years old) in a variety of settings, including play therapy, children’s residential facilities, education settings, trauma counseling, and parenting support programs. She has presented at national conferences on mental health topics as well as guest lectured about domestic violence and relationships at colleges and universities. She also serves as a subject matter expert for journalists on topics such as parenting, child development, and relationships. We love having her as a contributor at Baby Chick, and we are excited to now have her here on our podcast! Rachel resides with her family in Perth, Australia. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Rachel about teaching kids to be kind, what kindness really looks like, and tips and strategies to encourage kids to be kind. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: As parents, one of our greatest hopes is that our children grow up to be good people. What qualities do you think make a good person? At what age do you think children are able to understand the concept of kindness and what it means? How would you define kindness to a child? Can you share some examples of what kindness looks like to children? What are the long-term benefits of teaching kindness to our children at a young age? What are some practical strategies parents can use to encourage kindness in children? What role does leading by example play, and what are some ways parents can model kindness for their children? What are some common challenges parents face when teaching kindness to children, and how can they be overcome? As parents, how should we react when our children exhibit behavior that is unkind? What are your top tips for teaching kindness to kids? Rachel shared relatable stories and powerful advice when it comes to teaching our kids about kindness. Be sure to listen! Rachel's Resources Website: towardwellbeing.com Instagram: @towardwellbeing Rachel's author page at Baby Chick Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to being kind and raising a kinder generation! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Women can experience a lot of discomfort during pregnancy. All of these aches, pains, and changes in our body can also take a toll on our sleep. If we aren't moving around to find just the right position to get comfortable or having to get up to use the restroom again, you can count on our restless leg syndrome or pregnancy insomnia to kick in. With all of these issues, we had to chat with Dr. Ann Kristin Homdrum to learn more. Who is Dr. Ann Kristin Homdrum? Dr. Ann Kristin is a chiropractic doctor who specializes in pediatrics and women's health. She's not only a dedicated healthcare professional - she’s also an author, a public speaker, and a successful entrepreneur. She’s founded multiple businesses, including co-founding the maternity brand bbhugme, and is a co-owner of Norway's largest pediatric chiropractic franchise. But what's even more inspiring is her commitment to family. As a mom of three and alongside her husband, she's passionate about sharing her knowledge of conscious health decisions with fellow parents. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Dr. Ann Kristin about sleep during pregnancy, common sleep issues women experience during pregnancy, and how to overcome them all. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: How did you become passionate about working with pregnant women? How common are sleep issues during the prenatal period? What are some common sleep challenges that pregnant women face? How does pregnancy affect sleep patterns? Why do many expectant mothers struggle to find a comfortable sleeping position? Can you explain the role of chiropractic care in promoting better sleep during pregnancy? What other lifestyle recommendations do you typically provide to pregnant women to enhance their sleep quality? Are there certain sleep positions that are better than others during pregnancy? How important is a routine in pregnancy sleep? What are your top tips for getting a restful sleep during pregnancy? Dr. Ann Kristin's Resources Website: bbhugme.com Instagram: @natural_born_parenting Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to a restful pregnancy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A growing body of research shows that social media is designed to be addictive and feed children age-inappropriate content. This is leading to higher rates of depression and loneliness. As a parent, this is heartbreaking news but not surprising. Concerned parents, legislators, and psychology experts are advocating for abstinence – specifically banning social media and smartphone use until kids reach high school age, and understandably so. But while their intentions are good, our guest, Tim Estes, an online child safety advocate, believes that taking away devices altogether isn’t the answer either. He says it creates a "pink elephant paradox." He believes that the more we try to take social media and smartphones away from kids, the more they’ll want them. It makes sense. So what are parents to do? Tim advocates for "kangaroo parenting." Who is Tim Estes? Tim Estes is a pioneering executive in the Artificial Intelligence and Natural Language Processing domain. He founded and led Digital Reasoning in 2000, an AI leader in the space of unstructured data analytics for 20+ years. Estes envisioned a means by which computers could learn to accurately interpret language, understand context, and extract critical intelligence. Dubbed "Wall Street’s Robocop" by Forbes, the technology in Digital Reasoning became the market standard for applying AI and Natural Language Processing to communications data across text and voice and was adopted by a majority of Tier 1 Financial Institutions around the globe. Its technology also supported key Defense and Intelligence efforts in the U.S. Government. It enabled nationwide cancer screening systems to automate patient detection and prioritization and created the largest deployed system to support law enforcement in the disruption of child sex trafficking rings in North America. It was merged with Smarsh in November 2020 to create the market leader in Communications Intelligence for Financial Services. Tim left the acquiring company, Smarsh, at the end of 2021 and is now an active Angel Investor, Advisor, Board Member, and Mentor to CEOs in multiple industries. His newest startup, Angel AI, uses the latest advances in generative AI to change how kids use the internet to empower and protect them. The mission of Angel is to harness the power of AI to raise healthier and happier humans, starting with our kids. As a parent himself, Tim has dedicated his life to keeping kids safe online. He frequently advocates for change on Capitol Hill and recently briefed the House and Senate leadership on these issues. We are so impressed and so grateful for the work Tim does. This episode is a great listen for parents with kids using the internet. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Tim about keeping our children safe online and Kangaroo parenting in this digital age. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: How do you recommend parents manage devices, social media, and other digital platforms for their kids in this digital world? I know you are an advocate for "kangaroo parenting." Can you tell us more about this parenting style? How can parents instill healthy online habits and boundaries? What is it that parents need to know that you know about the internet and keeping our kids safe online? What is your number one piece of advice for parenting a child in our digital world? Tim's Resources Website: angelkids.ai LinkedIn: Tim Estes Thorn: Tim worked closely with Thorn, an organization co-founded by Ashton Kutcher and Demi Moore that combats child sex trafficking. Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to keeping our kids safe online and allowing them to grow and explore with our guidance! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pregnancy is a unique experience for every woman. Even the same woman can have different experiences from one pregnancy to another. Morning sickness, pregnancy insomnia, heartburn—the list goes on. Thankfully, there are things expecting mothers can do to help them through those pregnancy discomforts. A big part of that can be their diet. As our guest today said, "Food is mood," so understanding more about good nutrition during pregnancy can help us have better experiences and good mind and body alignment. Let's welcome today's guest! Who is Dr. Paul Quinn? Paul Quinn, PhD, CNM has been a nurse for close to three decades and a Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) for almost two decades. Dr. Paul Quinn has worked in the most diverse settings and had the privilege to meet, care for, and interact with the most dynamic, interesting, and insightful women. Possessing a PhD in nursing, he is a scientist at heart with a passion for putting research into action in ways that improve people’s lives. He is also the author of 5 books and counting. He is the first male midwife I have ever met, so I couldn't wait to pick his brain, hear his story, and take in all of his words of wisdom. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we're chatting with Dr. Paul Quinn about his experience as a midwife, as well as his nutrition tips for a better pregnancy and mind-body alignment during pregnancy. Here are several of the questions that we covered: I know you are one of the only male midwives in the US, which is amazing! Can you tell us more about your journey to becoming a midwife and how you knew this was something you were passionate about? Today’s topic is all about nutrition tips for mind-body alignment during pregnancy. How did you become interested in nutrition during pregnancy? What are some common misconceptions about nutrition during pregnancy that we need to clear up? How can nutrition during pregnancy impact mental well-being and emotional balance? How does your background as a midwife impact your approach to nutrition guidance for pregnant people? Can you share some key nutrients pregnant individuals should prioritize in their diet for optimal mind and body health and ways to get those nutrients besides a good prenatal vitamin? How do you approach creating recipes that specifically target both physical and mental health during pregnancy? Talk to us about mind-body alignment in pregnancy. What does that mean to you? How can a healthy pregnancy journey impact a positive birth experience? Once you listen, you can truly hear Dr. Paul's passion and love for his work. He was so empowering. I left our conversation inspired and uplifted, and I believe you will, too. Paul's Resources Website: prenatalpossibilities.com Paul's latest book: Prenatal Possibilities: Recipes for a Healthy Pregnancy and Beyond Facebook: @paul.quinn Instagram: @drpaulquinn Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to an empowered mind and body during pregnancy and beyond! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Having grown up with a sibling (my twin brother, to be exact) who has autism was one of the biggest things that ever happened to my family. In the 80's and 90's, there weren't that many resources available for parents who had kids with disabilities. My parents did the best that they could in raising us, but there were a lot of struggles. Now that I'm a mother myself, I can only imagine all of the days and nights they worried about my brother and his future as they looked for therapies and support. My brother has been a major blessing in our lives, and I believe he has taught us more than we have taught him. Thankfully, our world has progressed and is doing a lot more for disabled people and their families. Today's guest even wrote a book about parenting a disabled child and what parents need to know. I'm excited for you to listen to this episode. In my opinion, it's not just for parents who have disabled children. This episode is something everyone should listen to. Who is Kelley Coleman? Kelley Coleman is a feature film development executive turned author who is active in the disability advocacy community. She serves on committees for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Unified School District, and Canine Companions. Her book Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Supports stems from her own parenting experience, giving parents the tools to spend less time navigating the stuff and more time loving their kids exactly as they are. Kelley is a mom to two amazing boys, one of whom has multiple disabilities (including a yet-undiagnosed genetic syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, CVI, epilepsy, and more). She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, two boys, and her son’s service dog. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we're chatting with Kelley Coleman about everything you need to know about parenting a disabled child. As I mentioned, having a twin brother with autism, this topic is very near and dear to my heart, and it was a great conversation. To see some of the questions that we covered in this episode, go to our show notes! Kelley's Resources Website: KelleyColeman.com Kelley's book: Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Supports Facebook: @kelley.coleman.56 Instagram: @hellokelleycoleman Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to navigating your unique parenting journey! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At the end of the third trimester, most expecting moms are over being pregnant and are beyond ready to meet their baby. If you're expecting or have had a baby, you can probably relate. Something else that the majority of these women will tell you is that even though they are so excited to meet their babies, they are also a bit afraid of labor and birth. We get it! Childbirth is unpredictable, and the unknown can be scary. We all want a healthy mom and baby, and a safe, positive childbirth experience. But why doesn't everyone get that experience? There are a lot of reasons to answer that question, but our latest guest, Gina Mundy, can answer this further. We had an engaging conversation with her that we believe every pregnant mama preparing for birth should listen to! Who is Gina Mundy? Gina Mundy is an attorney specializing in childbirth cases. For over 20 years, she has been working to gain an in-depth understanding of childbirth. She has traveled nationwide, engaging with healthcare professionals to explore all aspects of labor and delivery. Her goal is to become involved before childbirth to prevent mistakes, and she is the best-selling author of "A Parents Guide to a Safer Childbirth." As a mother of three herself, Gina is passionate about helping parents have the best childbirth experience possible and bringing a healthy baby into the world! She's my kind of girl, and I couldn't wait to talk to her about birth and hear all about her experience as a childbirth attorney. Gina's Resources Website: GinaMundy.com Gina Mundy's book: A Parent's Guide to a Safer Childbirth Facebook: @ginamundy Instagram: @ginamundy LinkedIn: @ginamundy Gina's Podcast: The Childbirth Attorney Podcast with Gina Mundy Thank you for listening to this episode! Go to our SHOW NOTES for more details. Also, follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to a beautiful, safe birth and a healthy baby! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you someone who has a sweet tooth? Do you get cravings for something sweet throughout the day or in the evening before bedtime? If so, I can completely relate. I get sugar cravings, and when they hit, the cravings are strong. And this happens to kids, too! As parents, we sometimes use sweets to show love, appreciation, and sometimes even bribery. I know I have. These cravings can start young. Sugar is also hidden in our foods, and it doesn't have to be advertised or regulated. It's a major part of our culture's diet, but do we really understand the impact of sugar on our health and our kids' health? I'm not sure. That's why I'm talking to scientist and mother, Dr. Nicole Avena, to understand the science and learn what we can do. Who is Dr. Nicole Avena? Dr. Nicole Avena is an Associate Professor of Neuroscience at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City and a Visiting Professor of Health Psychology at Princeton University. She is quite impressive! Dr. Avena is also a public speaker and the author of several popular books like "What to Eat When You’re Pregnant," "Why Diets Fail," "Hedonic Eating," and her latest book, "Sugarless," which covers the latest science on sugar addiction and how to overcome it. She has done groundbreaking work developing models to characterize food addiction and the dangers of excess sugar intake. She is the perfect person to chat with about understanding the impact of sugar on our kids' and our health. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we're chatting with Dr. Avena about the impact of sugar and the effect that it has on the health of our families. We all know that the majority of kids (and adults) love sugar. So, we’re gonna "chick chat" about some actionable steps to help reduce sugar impact and why this is so important for us to do so. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: What led you to research the impact of sugar on our health? Tell us more about what you have learned about the effects of sugar on our physical and mental health. Can you elaborate more on the evidence that sugar is addictive? Often, we are unaware of how much sugar is in the food we eat. How can we become more aware of what we are putting into our bodies and the bodies of our children? I think we are all familiar with "sugar cravings." How can we cope with these cravings? What about artificial sweeteners? What should we be aware of when consuming this type of product? What are some ways families can begin to remove excess sugar from their diets? Can you tell us some of the long-term risks of consuming a diet with too much sugar? What are some of your favorite sugar-free recipes and snacks? What resources do you recommend for parents who want to learn more about the dangers of sugar and how to lessen their intake? It was an eye-opening conversation that I think everyone can benefit from and should listen to. Our diets are incredibly important, and because we are the gatekeepers of the kitchen for our kids, these details we discuss are imperative for parents to know. We are building our children's future health now. Tune in to learn all about it and the impact of sugar on our kids and our health! Dr. Avena's Resources Website: DrNicoleAvena.com Dr. Avena's books Facebook: @drnicoleavena Instagram: @drnicoleavena YouTube: @drnicoleavena LinkedIn: @drnicoleavena Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like us to cover. Cheers to better health and less sugar! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of our greatest roles as parents, in my opinion, is to teach our children how to be independent, good human beings. While academics are important, are we (society) putting enough emphasis on basic life skills and emotional intelligence? I'm not sure. I think that life skills can often be misunderstood as "chores." However, life skills are independence skills and organizational skills. There's more to intelligence than just IQ. There's EQ (emotional quotient, also known as emotional intelligence). And in my opinion, that is just as important, if not more important, especially in this technological, AI/digital world we live in today. So, how do we raise good humans? It's a great question and we're chatting all about it with our guest today, Dr. Jenny Woo. Who is Dr. Jenny Woo? Jenny Woo, MBA, PhD, is a Harvard-trained researcher and educator. As the founder and CEO of Mind Brain Emotion, she has created a series of award-winning card games and tools to help adults and kids build emotional intelligence and social mastery. Her product line has been used by teachers, psychologists, parents, and teens in more than 50 countries. In addition to her MEd from Harvard, MBA from UC Berkeley, and PhD from UC Irvine, she also spent several years as a Montessori school director and seven years as a human capital consultant at Deloitte and executive coach at Cisco Systems. Dr. Woo teaches emotional intelligence at the University of California, Irvine. Dr. Woo is a two-time TEDx speaker, author, and has been featured in Forbes, Business Insider, Yahoo! Finance, Parents, and The Harvard Gazette. Dr. Woo is the former host of 52 Essential Conversations to Inspire Children for Life podcast. She has also done two TEDx talks, including "How to Be Self-ish Without Feeling Selfish." Dr. Woo has spoken at the Institute for Child Psychology conference, the Happy Family conference, and other gatherings for parents, teachers, educators, and school administrators across the country. That’s right, she’s been everywhere, and we’re excited to have her here with us on our podcast. What Did We Discuss? Today, we’re chatting with Dr. Jenny Woo about how to build life skills and emotional intelligence for children. As I mentioned, life skills can often be misunderstood, so we are thrilled to have Dr. Woo here to "chick chat" with us about mastering these important skills, as well as how to raise good humans. As an educator and mother, Dr. Woo has seen and experienced all of this firsthand. Her warm presence on this episode and valuable insight on these topics are encouraging and refreshing. She gives parents and kids a great place to start to grow life skills, and she gives us hope for what the future can look like for our children. Be sure to tune into this episode and leave us a review! Mentioned in the Episode EQ Workshop video Empty-Nester Coach on Wall Street Journal Practical Life Skills for Kids on YouTube Dr. Woo's Resources Website: mindbrainemotion.com Mind Brain Emotion cards Facebook: @mindbrainparenting Instagram: @mindbrainparenting YouTube: @mindbrainemotion LinkedIn: @jennyjcwoo Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat, and let us know what you think and if there are any other topics you'd like for us to cover. Cheers to life skills and being a good human! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just a few weeks ago, I had a birth doula client who asked me if she would really know when labor was starting. This question surprised me because she was pregnant with her second child. Her first childbirth experience was an induction, but she knew what contractions felt like. However, the more I thought about this question, the more I realized many expecting moms have asked me this, "Will I really know when I'm in labor?" So, I thought it would be a good time to review the signs that labor is starting so you have more confidence in when to contact your doctor or midwife. How to Know That Labor is Getting Closer I know that you are so excited for your little one to be here (and not to be pregnant anymore). The third trimester can feel like the longest one. Each week and day can feel like forever because you are getting increasingly uncomfortable. I get it. Thankfully, there are some signs that you should be aware of that can be good indicators that labor is on the horizon! I discuss these FOUR THINGS to look for as you approach your due date. In this episode, I share what each one is, when you can potentially experience them, and what to possibly expect from these signs. This will give you more confidence that your body is doing what it's supposed to and getting you closer to meeting your baby. So exciting! 4 Signs That Labor is Starting Once you have experienced those signs of labor approaching, you will soon experience the real deal. If you're unsure what to pay attention to and look for, there are FOURS SIGNS that indicate labor is starting. If you want to learn about these signs and what they mean, I talk about them in this episode. Download and play this episode wherever you listen to podcasts, or scroll up and play on the player provided above. I walk you through these signs of labor and what you can expect from each. I know that this is an exciting and anxious time. You are so ready to meet your baby that you begin to second guess if you are really in labor. But I promise, if you listen to this show and pay attention to your body, you will really know when you are in labor and when to go to the hospital. Mentioned in the Episode Here are some more details on some of the topics mentioned in this episode: Cervical dilation (cervical checks) Mucus plug Contractions Bloody Show Water breaking When to go to the hospital in labor - our very first podcast episode! Thank you for tuning into this episode. Tell us your thoughts and labor experience on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychick! For expecting mamas still waiting to meet their little ones, I hope this helps you better understand your body and know what to look for when labor begins. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you have a new baby, you have probably heard of Moms On Call. Maybe you've heard of their books, their courses, their apps, or their consultants. Either way, it's no surprise that you have because they have helped over 1,000,000 and counting moms and dads across the world parent with confidence. As someone who has been in the mom-and-baby industry for over a decade, I even remember hearing some of my first clients talk about how they were reading Moms On Call. So, these two women co-founders behind this company have been doing some pretty incredible things over the years, and we are so grateful to have them on our podcast today. Laura Hunter is a mother of five, a pediatric nurse with over 30 years of experience, an entrepreneur, an author, a public speaker, and a highly sought-after infant care consultant with an international following. There’s one common passion for all the areas of Laura’s life—it’s her desire to inspire and encourage parents. Jennifer Walker has multiple roles as well: wife, mother of three, pediatric nurse, public speaker, infant and toddler care consultant, and author. Jennifer has over 30 years of pediatric nursing experience and has the heart to equip parents with practical advice and inspiration for the joys and challenges of parenthood. These are my kind of mamas, and I’m so excited for you to tune in and listen to this episode with these amazing ladies! These two women are not only amazing mothers and nurses, but it's obvious that their hearts are committed and fulfilled in serving families during these vulnerable times of parenthood. We had a playful yet profound discussion on parenting styles and modern-day motherhood. Be sure to tune in and leave us a review on what you think! Moms On Call's Resources Website: momsoncall.com Moms On Call books Podcast: The Moms On Call Podcast Moms On Call Blog Facebook: @momsoncallparenting Instagram: @momsoncall YouTube: @momsoncall Pinterest: @momsoncall Thank you for listening to this episode! Follow us on our podcast Instagram page @thebabychickchat! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I can't believe we first launched this podcast in 2018, and this is my very first solo episode! We have been playing around with the idea of incorporating solo shows into our podcast for a bit. Now that this is my first one, I am super excited to hear what you guys think about it. Because my career background is heavily tied around birth and my work as a doula, I thought "How to Choose the Right Doula for You" would be a great first solo episode for me to share my thoughts and advice with all the pregnant mamas. What the heck is a doula? If you are pregnant or have been pregnant in the recent past, you have probably heard the word “doula.” Some of you might be getting some witchy, burning sage, banging-on-the-drum vibes when you read/hear this word. And for those of you who have used a doula during your birth experiences, you may be laughing to yourself as you read this because you know that while we can do those things, if that is what you want as the birthing mother, we don't really do those things. That's at least speaking for myself and many of the doulas I've worked with and know. I have been a doula for the past 13 years and have attended over 300 births in many different settings — mainly hospitals, a few birthing centers, and home births. I first started working with moms and attending births in 2011. I can’t believe it's been 13 years, and we’re in 2024. For those of you who have never heard of the word "doula," it’s actually an ancient Greek word meaning ‘woman servant, caregiver, or a woman who serves.’ More recently, it refers to a trained and experienced professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support to the mother and her partner during pregnancy, labor, childbirth, and their postpartum journey. In This Episode In this episode, I talk about the different types of doulas there are and my 6 steps to help you pick the best doula for you. I even include a FREE printable of interview questions you should be asking doulas when you are interviewing them. (Click the show notes link to download it!) Please share your thoughts with us and leave us a review on my very first solo show. I'd love to hear what you think and what you would add to my list. And join us on our podcast's Instagram page @thebabychickchat to continue chick-chatting with us! https://www.instagram.com/thebabychickchat/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you a mother who feels stretched thin and exhausted? Maybe you can't remember anything, and you're feeling lonelier than ever before? If you're saying yes to yourself after reading these questions, you just might be experiencing "mommy burnout." Our guest today is an expert on this topic, and she is sharing her tips on navigating and reclaiming your life while raising healthy and happy children. Today's guest is Dr. Sheryl Ziegler, a psychologist, author, speaker, and mother. She literally wrote the book on Mommy Burnout and has been counseling overwhelmed, exhausted, and lonely mothers for 20 years. Dr. Sheryl has led over 10,000 face-to-face sessions focused on "mommy burnout" and its related issues, including anxiety, depression, and divorce. With less help available and high pressure on moms to do it all, it's no wonder that there is a loneliness epidemic going on right now. We're so grateful to have Dr. Sheryl Ziegler shed some light on a topic we feel most (if not all) mothers can relate to. Check our show notes for more details and a FREE well-mom checklist printable to help you take better care of yourself! Dr. Sheryl's Resources Website: drsherylziegler.com Mommy Burnout book - https://amzn.to/48G4IJA Her podcast: Dr. Sheryl's Podcouch - https://drsherylziegler.com/podcast/ Facebook: @mommyburnout Instagram: @drsherylziegler LinkedIn: @drsherylziegler Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcoming a new baby into the world and becoming a parent are some of the greatest gifts in life. As soon as you see those two pink lines on your pregnancy test and the moment you hold your baby in your arms, life is never the same again. And just as your baby is learning about you and this new world, you are also learning about this new baby and your new role as a mother. There are highs and lows and twists and turns, but it is the most worthwhile ride of your life. Dr. Sears knows this very well as a pediatrician and father of eight (that's right, eight!) children. We chat with him on this episode about developing your parenting style and his experiences as a doctor and father. Who is Dr. William Sears? Dr. William Sears, MD, is a world-renowned pediatrician and the author of the million-copy bestseller The Baby Book. He received his medical training at Harvard Medical School's Children's Hospital in Boston and The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. He has now been advising parents on how to raise healthier families for more than 50 years. Dr. Sears co-founded AskDrSears.com and the Dr. Sears Wellness Institute, which has certified over 12,000 Health Coaches worldwide. As a father of eight children, he coached Little League sports for 20 years and, together with his wife Martha, has written more than 45 books on nutrition, parenting, and healthy aging. In May 2012, Dr. Sears and his contribution to family health were featured on the cover of TIME Magazine, and they named him "the man who remade motherhood." He serves as a health consultant for magazines, TV, radio, and other media and is noted for his science-made simple-and-fun approach to family health. We are thrilled and honored to have him with us on our show today! What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Dr. Sears about developing the parenting style that works best for you and your children. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: You have so much first-hand experience as a medical professional and being a father of eight. How have these experiences shaped the way you offer advice to new parents? I love that you say, "There is no one way to parent a baby." Can you elaborate on that statement? How do you think new parents can begin to develop a parenting style that best suits their family? We all have different needs, as do our children. How important is it to be flexible in parenting and adapting to the changing needs of ourselves and our children? What role does self-awareness play in finding the best parenting style? How do you think external influences impact our parenting styles? How can parents best find a balance between incorporating expert advice and trusting their instincts when it comes to parenting? Do you have any examples of different parenting styles that have worked for different families and why they were effective? In your experience, how have parenting styles evolved? If you could offer one piece of advice to a new parent looking to find their stride, what would it be? Dr. Sears answers these questions with heartfelt stories of his patients and his own family experiences that make you feel his genuine passion and care for families and their babies. It's an episode that will leave you with a full heart and a better understanding of how to listen to your instincts as a mother. Be sure to tune in and leave us a review! Dr. Sears' Resources Website: AskDrSears.com Facebook: @askdrsears X: @askdrsears Instagram: @askdrsears YouTube: @askdrsears Go to our SHOW NOTES for more details! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feeding your new baby can come with its challenges. You may think that breastfeeding your newborn will come naturally, and for some, it does. However, for many others, it isn't so simple. Breastfeeding is a skill that both mother and baby must practice and learn together. Then, once they have figured out their feeding rhythm, it's time to introduce a bottle, and mothers are left unsure how to do it properly so as not to halt their breastfeeding journey. They wonder how they can successfully combine breastfeeding and bottle-feeding to experience both benefits because moms deserve to feed their babies the way that works best for them. Today's guest is sharing all the tips on how to introduce a bottle to baby, how to combine breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, and all the details parents need to know about Emulait and their baby bottle. Who is Madison Blampied? Today's guest is Madison Blampied. Madi is Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Relations at Emulait. With a keen eye for identifying growth opportunities and fostering strategic partnerships, Madi has learned to balance the demands of a high-powered career with the joys of motherhood. She found Emulait when her 2-year-old was only six weeks old and knew she needed to be a part of this revolutionary product. Now, as she eagerly anticipates the arrival of her second child, her outlook on bottles has shifted since her first pregnancy before Emulait existed. She is passionate about empowering women and giving them the tools to choose the outcome of their feeding journey! What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Madi about combining breastfeeding and bottle-feeding. We want to help parents feel confident in their feeding journey and support them by answering common questions while providing some helpful tips and tricks we have learned from our hands-on experiences as moms and professionals in the baby space. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: Can you talk about some of the different ways mothers feed their babies and how bottles play a role in these journeys? What should parents consider when looking for a bottle for a breastfed baby? What makes Emulait's bottle unique? Can you elaborate on the development and science behind this unique product? What tips do you have for introducing a bottle to a baby? What are the biggest challenges you see parents facing when transitioning from breastfeeding to bottle feeding? How can they be overcome? You said your outlook on bottles has shifted since your first pregnancy. Can you tell us more about your experience? What are your top bottle-feeding tips and tricks? Support is so important regardless of how you choose to feed your baby. Please tell our listeners more about how Emulait supports all parents on their feeding journeys. What is one piece of advice you would like to give parents about to embark on their feeding journey? Between the laughter and helpful tips, this was one of my favorite episodes! We covered a lot with Madi about the Emulait brand and how to help families with their baby-feeding journeys. We sincerely hope you enjoyed the episode as much as we did. Be sure to check out Emulait's bottles and products, and stay tuned for all of the amazing new things they are launching (as Madi mentioned) this year! Cheers to a stress-free baby-feeding journey! *Check out Emulait's products here!* Mentioned in the Episode Emulait's other accessories Emulait's app: Apple Store and Google Play They have a lactation consultant available for their customers (free of charge) to help them through their breastfeeding and bottle-feeding journeys. Madi's Resources Website: Emulait Facebook: @emulait X: @emulait Instagram: @emulait TikTok: @emulait Watch the episode on our YouTube channel! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Safety is at the top of every parent's mind. We always want to do everything we can to keep our little ones safe, but sometimes, we don't know where to start. There is so much to consider. Car seat safety, babyproofing, safe sleep, and more! Luckily, we have Sarah Haverstick, a baby and child safety guru, answering all of our questions. She's sharing what every parent needs to know about baby safety. Who is Sarah Haverstick? Sarah Haverstick is a certified Child Passenger Safety Technician Instructor, the Safety Advocate for Evenflo, and an instructor in the safe transportation of children with special healthcare needs. She is a former chair of the National Child Passenger Safety Board and current vice chair of the Manufacturers Alliance for Child Passenger Safety. In 2021, she was inducted into the Child Passenger Safety Hall of Fame, so she is a big deal in the baby safety world! Sarah has been educating kids and adults on child passenger safety topics for 15 years. She is a mom to two awesome kiddos (a 3-year-old and a 10-year-old) – and a few fur babies (four cats and two dogs). Rounding out her family is a husband who might not love all the car seats that live in the garage! What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Sarah about all things baby safety! We discuss ​​best practices and life-saving tips for parents while in the car and at home with their little ones. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: What important safety concerns are often unknown or overlooked? Babyproofing your home can feel overwhelming as a new parent. How do you recommend parents make their home a safe space for baby? Sleep safety is also critical. What are your top safety tips for safe sleep? What are the most important things parents need to know about safe transportation for babies in the car? What steps can parents take to make sure their children are safe in the car each time they buckle them in? What do you recommend parents look for when shopping for safe baby products like cribs, car seats, strollers, toys, and other baby products? How can parents stay updated on the latest safety recommendations and guidelines? Do you have any personal stories related to baby safety that could help shed light on its importance? What is your number one baby safety tip? We covered so many great safety topics in this episode! Sarah is a pro, and we are so honored to have had her as a guest on our show. We hope you enjoyed it as much as we did. Cheers to keeping our babies safe! Mentioned in the Episode NoHeatstroke.org Virtual babyproofing Sarah's Resources Website: Evenflo Sarah's LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While pregnancy is a miracle, there are times when it can be uncomfortable and not so glamorous. People hear about morning sickness and swollen feet, but not necessarily about pregnancy complications. Pregnant women need to know what is normal and abnormal in pregnancy so they can know what to look for regarding any concerns. One of the first tips today's guest shared on this episode is choosing a primary care provider you like and trust. Having a good relationship with your doctor or midwife and having continuity of care throughout your pregnancy can help you have a healthier pregnancy. We learned a lot of insightful tips from our special guest, Dr. Alison Cowan. If you are interested in learning more about pre-eclampsia, tips for self-advocacy, common pregnancy complications and what to look for, this episode is for you! Who is Dr. Alison Cowan? Dr. Alison Cowan is an OBGYN, a mom of three (ages 10, 7, and 3), and the Head of Medical Affairs for Mirvie. Mirvie is a maternal health company pioneering a new way for women, expecting parents, and their doctors to predict potential pregnancy complications early on. Alison attended Emory University Medical School, where she also received a master's in clinical research before moving on to do her OBGYN residency at Northwestern University. With over a decade of bedside experience, Alison has delivered hundreds of babies. She is now on a mission to help change the status quo for pregnancy health. She is passionate about sharing tips for self-advocacy, having the healthiest pregnancy possible, and advocating for change and equity in pregnancy health at every opportunity. Alison resides in Colorado with her husband, Patrick, and three children. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, we chat with Alison about the facts behind common pregnancy complications, like pre-eclampsia, how women can advocate for themselves during pregnancy, and equity in pregnancy health. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: What steps can women take to ensure they have the healthiest pregnancy possible? Why is self-advocacy an important part of a woman's pregnancy? What tips do you have for self-advocacy during pregnancy? What are some common pregnancy complications? And what symptoms should women look for? Can you tell us more about the science and facts behind some of these common pregnancy complications? How common is pre-eclampsia? What causes pre-eclampsia? Can it be prevented? Are some women at a higher risk for developing pre-eclampsia than others? What are the symptoms of pre-eclampsia? Does pre-eclampsia go away after delivery? I know you advocate for equity in pregnancy health. Can you elaborate on this and what it means? Dr. Cowan's passion and knowledge about women's health is evident in this episode. We learned some helpful information that can help every person have a healthier pregnancy. We hope you learned something new, too! Cheers to healthy pregnancies! Mentioned in the Episode ACOG.org Comprehensive care plan to prevent pre-eclampsia Care providers should be mindful of these CUS words from their patients: I'm Concerned. I'm Uncomfortable. Safety: I feel unsafe. Dr. Alison Cowan's Resources Website: Mirvie.com Instagram: @mirviedx Facebook: @MirvieDx X: @MirvieDx Dr. Alison Cowan's LinkedIn Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices