The Labor Room

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! 🎙️ Episode Title: 16 Game-Changing Pregnancy and Labor Tips You Need to Know Are you ready to transform your pregnancy and labor experience with practical, proven advice? As a seasoned labor and delivery nurse, I’ve gathered 16 of the most game-changing tips to help you navigate this incredible journey with confidence and ease. In this episode, I’m sharing insider knowledge that can make all the difference in how you prepare for labor, advocate for yourself, and stay in control throughout the process. From those last days of pregnancy to the final push, these tips will empower you to approach labor and delivery with calm, control, and clarity. Whether you're a first-time mom or looking to have a better birth experience this time around, these tips are for YOU. 🎁 Free Resource: Don’t forget to grab your FREE Hospital Bag Checklist to take the guesswork out of packing for the big day. Download it here: Hospital Bag Checklist. 🌟 Take Your Preparation to the Next Level with My Signature Courses! Empowered Birth AcademyEmpowered Birth AcademyPostpartum: Life After LaborPostpartum: Life After LaborMilkies Like You Mean It: Breastfeeding & Pumping Course Milkies Like You Mean It.Momming Like You Mean It: Mastering the Newborn StageMomming Like You Mean It.💬 Let’s Connect! https://alifeinlabor.comThe Labor Room🌟 If you loved this episode, please leave a review and share it with a mom-to-be who could use these tips. Don't wake the baby! Unwind to a wholesome mix of parenting stories, quirky humour, and cosy crafting Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify Support the show *From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only*

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! In this empowering episode of The Labor Room, I sit down with Dr. Naomi Whittaker, an OBGYN and mom of five (soon to be six), to discuss her inspiring journey of reclaiming her birth experiences after a traumatic first delivery. Dr. Whittaker shares how her first birth, a primary cesarean due to a misdiagnosis of Cephalopelvic Disproportion (CPD), shaped her determination to achieve four successful VBACs. We dive into her transformative birth stories, exploring the emotional and physical aspects of healing from trauma and navigating VBACs. Dr. Whittaker also opens up about how her personal experiences influenced her decision to become an OBGYN and how she’s now making a difference for moms navigating their own pregnancy journeys. In this episode, you’ll hear: Whether you're preparing for a VBAC, healing from a past birth trauma, or just looking for inspiration to feel empowered as a birthing mom, this episode is packed with heartfelt insights and expert advice. Resources Mentioned: The Birth Plan Accelerator Course The FREE BIrth Plan Blueprint The Reel that connected Heather & Naomi The Reel Heather mentioned about a resident who pushed her over the edge The Reel Naomi mentioned about C-Section preferences The Reel Naomi mentioned about sewing up a chicken breast Connect with Heather: https://alifeinlabor.com@alifeinlaborConnect With Naomi: Dr. Naomi Whittaker's Website The Birth Plan Accelerator is your ultimate step-by-step guide to creating a birth plan that works for you. This course empowers you to confidently communicate your preferences, navigate unexpected situations, and ensure your birth experience feels supported and informed. Whether you're planning a hospital delivery, home birth, or anything in between, you'll gain the tools to make your voice heard, reduce fear, and feel prepared for the birth you’ve envisioned. Take charge of your birth journey with clarity and confidence—because every mom deserves to feel in control on the big day. Subscribe and leave a review to let us know how this episode inspired or helped you! Together, we’re elevating births and empowering moms every step of the way. Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! In today’s episode of The Labor Room Podcast, I’m sitting down with Amy Kiefer, co-founder of Expecting and Empowered, to talk all about strength training during pregnancy. Amy is an expert in prenatal fitness, and through her work at Expecting and Empowered, she’s empowering moms to maintain their strength and health during pregnancy and beyond. In this episode, we cover: Why strength training matters during pregnancy Amy shares valuable insights into how strength training can benefit pregnant women, from improving endurance during labor to enhancing postpartum recovery. Whether you're new to exercise or an experienced fitness enthusiast, there’s something in this episode for you! Mentioned in the episode: Amy has generously offered my listeners a 15% discount on the Expecting and Empowered app! Just use the code alifeinlabor at checkout on https://app.expectingandempowered.com/subscriptions/. Connect with Heather: alifeinlabor.com@alifeinlaborConnect with Amy: Links mentioned in this episode: expectingandempowered.comalifeinlabor.com/ebaTHELABORROOMFollow and Subscribe: Don’t miss out on future episodes of The Labor Room Podcast! Be sure to subscribe and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode. You can follow me on Instagram at @alifeinlabor and check out more resources on my website, alifeinlabor.com. Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Let's chat about labor positions that can lead to an easier, smoother, healthier birth process for you and your baby. Plus, can hospital policy dictate in what position you give birth? Connect with Heather @alifeinlabor A Life In Labor website Resources mentioned in this episode Enjoy Your Birth Ebook The Empowered Birth Academy - use code THELABORROOM Birth Plan Template Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! In this empowering episode of The Labor Room, we’re diving deep into how to turn your birth plan into your birth reality. Whether you're a first-time mom or navigating another pregnancy, creating a birth plan that aligns with your values and desires is key to feeling prepared and empowered. But how do you make sure your birth plan actually works for you when the day comes? In this episode, I share practical tips and strategies on how to take your birth plan from paper to practice. Learn how to communicate effectively with your birth team, navigate the unexpected, and advocate for the birth experience you envision. From handling medical interventions to staying flexible in the moment, this episode covers everything you need to ensure your birth plan supports your ideal birth while still giving you the freedom to adapt if necessary. Key Takeaways: Who is this episode for? Mentioned in This Episode: The Birth Plan AcceleratoryouThe Customizable Birth Plancreated for youThe Birth Plan BlueprintConnect with Heather: @alifeinlabor A Life In Laborhere.Resources and Links: here.The Better Birth Workshop:A Life In Labor BlogThe Labor RoomhereSupport the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Welcome to this episode of The Labor Room Podcast, where I'm diving deep into a topic that doesn't get talked about enough – the immediate care of newborns right after birth. You may think you're prepared, with all the advice you've gathered about sleepless nights and endless diaper changes, but there's so much more that new parents need to know. In this episode, I'll walk you through the top ten most surprising and often weird things you'll encounter in those first moments and hours after your baby is born. As a labor and delivery nurse, I see the same concerns popping up from new parents over and over again, and trust me, they are all perfectly normal! We'll cover everything from your baby’s unexpected appearance to their breathing patterns, and help ease your mind as you step into the world of parenthood. Whether you’re a first-time parent or even a seasoned one, this episode will help prepare you for the things that no one tells you about your newborn at birth. So grab a cup of coffee, take a deep breath, and let's dive into all the things that make those first few hours with your baby a little less stressful. Tech difficulties! Coming soon: Check out our new SHOP! 🎉 I'm so excited to announce the opening of our brand new shop where you can shop all of our resources that will guide you through TTC, pregnancy, birth, and the baby stage! Resources: The Better Birth WorkshopBaby-Care GuideFollow me on IGThe Labor Room.Connect with Me: alifeinlabor.com@alifeinlabor@mylifeandlaborSubscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review! I'd love to hear your feedback and how this episode helped you feel more prepared for the newborn stage. Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! In this enlightening episode of The Labor Room podcast, Heather Knezic sits down with Alexandra DeVito, a renowned functional nutritionist specializing in fertility and preconception health. Alexandra is the author of 9 Months Is Not Enough: The Ultimate Pre-pregnancy Checklist to Create a Baby-Ready Body and Build Generational Health and the founder and CEO of Poplin, the first pre-pregnancy wellness company. Join us as we delve into the crucial topic of pre-pregnancy wellness and how it can significantly impact not only your pregnancy but also your postpartum period and overall generational health. Topics Discussed: What is Pre-Pregnancy Wellness?Measuring Pre-Pregnancy WellnessOptimizing Pre-Pregnancy WellnessImpact on PregnancyPostpartum Benefits Making Baby Steps: A Comprehensive TTC Guide Get 50% off The Empowered Birth Academy with code THELABORROOM Connect with Alexandra: Website9 Months Is Not Enough: The Ultimate Pre-pregnancy Checklist to Create a Baby-Ready Body and Build Generational HealthConnect with Heather: WebsiteInstagramThe Labor Room Facebook GroupSubscribe & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to The Labor Room podcast and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us bring more insightful and inspiring content to new and expecting mothers. Join the Conversation: Share your thoughts on this episode and connect with other listeners in our online community. Tune in next week for another episode filled with valuable insights and expert advice on all things motherhood. Until then, take care and prioritize your wellness journey! Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! In this episode of The Labor Room podcast, I dive into a practical and stress-free approach to building a breast milk freezer stash. Whether you’re planning to return to work, want to have some extra milk on hand, or are simply looking to build a stash for peace of mind, this episode is packed with tips and strategies to make the process smooth and manageable. Join host Heather Knezic as she breaks down the steps to create a freezer stash without feeling overwhelmed. Listener Questions and Answers: Heather answers listener-submitted questions about pumping, freezer stashes, and managing milk supply. Resources Mentioned: Medela Double Electric PumpSpectra S2 Double Electric PumpWireless Breast PumpsHaakaa PumpBreastmilk BagsHand PumpPumping BraMedela Car Adapter Milkies Like You Mean It Breastfeeding & Pumping Course 40 Breastfeeding Secrets Connect with Me: A Life In LaborInstagramThe Labor RoomSubscribe & Leave a Review: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts or your favorite podcast platform. Your feedback helps us reach more moms and provide valuable content. I will draw one winner to get access to any of my courses for free. Join the Conversation: Share your pumping experiences and tips with us! Tag us on social media with #TheLaborRoomPodcast and #PumpingGuide. Closing Notes: Thank you for tuning in to this episode of The Labor Room podcast. Remember, building a freezer stash doesn't have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and the right tips, you can create a stash that works for you and your baby. Until next time, take care and happy pumping! Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! In this episode of The Labor Room Podcast, Heather Knezic interviews Jacque Ordner, a Motif Medical Advisor, IBCLC, and BSN, about the unique challenges and solutions for breastfeeding after a C-section. Jacque shares valuable insights on overcoming common obstacles, effective breastfeeding positions, and the importance of support systems for C-section mothers. Whether you're a new mom or a birth professional, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement for a successful breastfeeding journey post-C-section. Key Topics Discussed: Connect with Heather: A Life In Labor@alifeinlaborConnect with Jacque Ordner: Thank You for Listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Stay tuned for more insightful conversations on pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and motherhood. Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Host: Heather Knezic Guest: Chanelle Nsangou Nioya, DNP, CNM, FNP-C Episode Summary: In this episode, Heather Knezic sits down with Chanelle Nsangou Nioya, a doctorate-prepared, board-certified nurse midwife and nurse practitioner, to discuss an often overlooked but crucial aspect of postpartum recovery: sexual health. Chanelle shares her extensive knowledge and practical advice on navigating sexual health after childbirth, addressing common concerns and providing tips for new mothers and their partners. Key Topics Covered: Understanding Postpartum ChangesCommon Concerns and MisconceptionsHealing and RecoveryCommunication with PartnersPractical Advice and TipsKey Takeaways: Resources Mentioned: Postpartum Recovery Kit ChecklistPostpartum Mini CourseConnect with Chanelle Nsangou Nioya: Connect With Heather Knezic: www.alifeinlabor.com@alifeinlabor@alifeinlaborClosing Remarks: Thank you for tuning in to this important episode of The Labor Room Podcast. Remember, taking care of your sexual health is a vital part of your overall well-being as a new mother. Don’t hesitate to reach out for support and keep the conversation going. Until next time, take care and be kind to yourself! Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Hey! Today on The Labor Room Podcast we are talking about True vs False labor and how to know whether or not you're having real labor contractions or if they are just a run of annoying braxton hicks contractions. It can be confusing if you're a new mom but in this episode we will go over: 5 things to look for to determine whether or not it's the real thing 3 things to try if you're experiencing uncomfortable false labor 5 ways you'll know for sure that this is true labor or not Connect with Heather: @alifeinlabor https://alifeinlabor.com Resources Mentioned in the episode: The Labor and Delivery Guide The Week By Week Pregnancy Sequence - Free The Empowered Birth Academy - $50 off with the code THELABORROOM Join the Conversation: The Labor Room Facebook group is a place to connect with other moms for support. CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth, breastfeeding, and baby care courses that will help you feel prepared and empowered on your journey to and through motherhood. And be sure to follow @alifeinlabor on instagram to join our little community of mamas who are navigating this stage of life right along side you. Support the Show. Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Welcome back to the labor room where we talk about all things pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding, and babies! Today we are honoring all of the mamas who are gearing up for their summer pregnancy this year. I have given birth two two babies during or immediately after the peak of summer so I know exactly what it's like to endure a scortching hot California summer with a third trimester belly. But you know what? It's not all bad. Let's talk about: 1. Why summer pregnancies are great 2. How to embrace your summer pregnancy 3. How to stay safe during your summer pregnancy ...and more pregnancy tips that you might be searching for if you're in your third trimester this summer. Connect with Heather: @alifeinlabor https://alifeinlabor.com Resources Mentioned in the episode: The Labor and Delivery Guide The Week By Week Pregnancy Sequence - Free The Empowered Birth Academy - $50 off with the code THELABORROOM Join the Conversation: The Labor Room Facebook group is a place to connect with other moms for support. CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth, breastfeeding, and baby care courses that will help you feel prepared and empowered on your journey to and through motherhood. And be sure to follow @alifeinlabor on instagram to join our little community of mamas who are navigating this stage of life right along side you. Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Welcome back to the labor room podcast where we talk about all things motherhood! Today we have a special guest on the podcast here to talk to us about the importance of self care as new and expecting moms AND how to access it without it feeling like you're just adding more to your plate as a busy mama who's already feeling overwhelmed and stretched thin. Tune in to hear Emma Benyon, a self-care and motherhood coach and educator who is passionate about supporting mums, give us the tools to be less overwhelmed and have more balance, energy and clarity using self care methods. Connect with Heather: @alifeinlabor https://alifeinlabor.com Connect with Emma: Website - Emmabenyoncoaching.co.uk Instagram - @emmabenyon.coach Resources Mentioned in the episode: Why "Me Time" For Moms Needs To Be A Top Priority The Labor Room Facebook Group Momming Like You Mean It - Mastering The Newborn Stage course Join the Conversation: The Labor Room Facebook group is a place to connect with other moms for support. CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth, breastfeeding, and baby care courses that will help you feel prepared and empowered on your journey to and through motherhood. And be sure to follow @alifeinlabor on instagram to join our little community of mamas who are navigating this stage of life right along side you. https://alifeinlabor.com Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! In this Rapid Fire Friday episode I am off-the-cuff answering questions all about epidurals in labor. As a labor and delivery nurse of over 10 years, I have a lot to say about epidurals! In today's episode, I'll be addressing questions such as: - 3 months PP and still have pain in my back from my epidural. Had a horrible experience. The lady had to redo my epidural 3 times. - I know I want to get an epidural. When is the best time to get it? -My epidrual wore off after 1.5 hrs. Got 2nd epidural and same thing. PTSD. What do I do next time? -Can you talk about the effects of IV meds vs Epidural on baby? In a debate with a friend. ...and more! Connect with Heather: @alifeinlabor https://alifeinlabor.com Resources Mentioned in the episode: The Empowered Birth Academy Enjoy Your Birth Ebook - FREE Join the Conversation: The Labor Room Facebook group is a place to connect with other moms for support. CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth, breastfeeding, and baby care courses that will help you feel prepared and empowered on your journey to and through motherhood. And be sure to follow @alifeinlabor on instagram to join our little community of mamas who are navigating this stage of life right along side you. https://alifeinlabor.com *From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only* Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Welcome back to the Labor Room Podcast where we talk about all things pregnancy, birth, and babies. Today we are diving into newborn sleep and how a solid bedtime routine plays a role. If you're a new mom or just a mom with a newborn and you're looking for sleep advice, I definitely recommend that you tune into this episode where I will share with you the baby sleep tips that I've learned over the years as a labor and delivery nurse and raising three kiddos of my own. A baby routine does not have to be strict or rigid but babies THRIVE in predictability. So there are absolutely ways that you can increase your baby's sleep at night with a really good bedtime routine for your baby. Connect with Heather: @alifeinlabor https://alifeinlabor.com Resources Mentioned in the episode: The Labor Room Facebook Group Momming Like You Mean It - Mastering The Newborn Stage course Join the Conversation: The Labor Room Facebook group is a place to connect with other moms for support. CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth, breastfeeding, and baby care courses that will help you feel prepared and empowered on your journey to and through motherhood. And be sure to follow @alifeinlabor on instagram to join our little community of mamas who are navigating this stage of life right along side you. https://alifeinlabor.com *From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only* Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Welcome back to another Bonus Episode Rapid Fire Friday! Today we are going to quickly touch on topics such as Leaking Nipples, Planned C-Sections, Last Baby, Vasectomy & the 1-2 transition! So glad you're here to tune in. Connect with Heather: @alifeinlabor The C-Section Guide -The Empowered Birth Academy - use code THELABORROOM for $50 off The Customizable Birth Plan Join the Conversation: The Labor Room Facebook group is a place to connect with other moms for support. CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth, breastfeeding, and baby care courses that will help you feel prepared and empowered on your journey to and through motherhood. Sign up for the Week by Week Pregnancy Email Sequence: https://alifeinlabor.com/weekbyweek *From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only* Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Welcome back to the Labor Room Podcast. Today we are chatting about 21 pieces of labor advice I wish every first time mom knew before going into labor. Although this labor advice was specifically geared toward first time moms, who isn't looking for a little help when it comes to the hardest thing your body has ever done? I'm sure we can all use this advice no matter how many babies you've had. Being a pregnant mama for the first time is so exciting! Envisioning what you're baby is going to look like, imagining how sweet his snuggles will be, and looking forward to rocking him lovingly in the nursery you worked so hard to create. But wait...before all of that we have to actually get him out of our bodies. As a a first time mom, I'll bet you need some really solid pieces of labor advice for first time moms. Good thing you're here. I'm a labor and delivery nurse and a mom of three. I've got the labor advice you're looking for and then some. Connect with Heather: @alifeinlabor https://alifeinlabor.com Resources Mentioned in the episode: The Hospital Bag Checklist Enjoy Your Birth Ebook Get $50 off the Empowered Birth Academy with the code THELABORROOM Join the Conversation: The Labor Room Facebook group is a place to connect with other moms for support. CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth, breastfeeding, and baby care courses that will help you feel prepared and empowered on your journey to and through motherhood. And be sure to follow @alifeinlabor on instagram to join our little community of mamas who are navigating this stage of life right along side you. https://alifeinlabor.com *From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only* Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Welcome back, friends! Today we are going to continue our first Rapid Fire Friday where I will *try* to rapid fire answer some of the most popular questions that you guys submitted. Today we are going through my TOP 5 asked questions of 2023. Topics include labor induction, going past your due date, VBAC, baby sleep, and more! Connect with Heather: @alifeinlabor -The Empowered Birth Academy - use code THELABORROOM for $50 off The Customizable Birth Plan Join the Conversation: The Labor Room Facebook group is a place to connect with other moms for support. CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth, breastfeeding, and baby care courses that will help you feel prepared and empowered on your journey to and through motherhood. Sign up for the Week by Week Pregnancy Email Sequence: https://alifeinlabor.com/weekbyweek *From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only* Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! Join me as I interview Becca Romero on the topic of creating a fertility diet to optimize your fertility and benefit your overall health. Becca is the founder of Little Life Nutrition, an online fertility nutrition practice. Becca is a licenced dietitian nutritionist and a certified nutrition specialist. With a specialized focus on addressing infertility, she offers personalized dietary and lifestyle solutions, including menstrual cycle education for women aiming to enhance their conception potential and ensure the birth of a healthy baby. She is driven by the philosophy that optimal preconception nutrition and lifestyle can shape the well-being of generations to come. Connect with Heather: @alifeinlabor https://alifeinlabor.com Connect with Becca: @littlelifenutrition littlelifenutrition.com Fertility Diet Foundations Guide (free download) https://www.littlelifenutrition.com/fertilityguide Sign up for theTTC Emails Check out the TTC Guide Get $50 off the Empowered Birth Academy with the code THELABORROOM Join the Conversation: The Labor Room Facebook group is a place to connect with other moms for support. CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth, breastfeeding, and baby care courses that will help you feel prepared and empowered on your journey to and through motherhood. And be sure to follow @alifeinlabor on instagram to join our little community of mamas who are navigating this stage of life right along side you. https://alifeinlabor.com *From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only* Support the show

Send me a love note here to let me know what you thought about your most recently listened-to episode! I'm so excited you guys! Today is our very first Rapid Fire Friday where I will *try* to rapid fire answer questions that you guys have submitted. Today we are going through my TOP asked questions of 2023. I was shocked that some of these questions made it to the top 13 but here we are! I got really long winded and it wasn't so *rapid* so we are going to need a Part 2 to get to the rest. Links mentioned in the episode: The Breech Guide "Weaning" Podcast Episode First Trimester Spotting Blog Post Pregnancy After Miscarriage Blog Post My Favorite Breast Pumps: 1. Double Electric 2. Wearable 3. Silicone Connect with Heather: @alifeinlabor -The Empowered Birth Academy - use code THELABORROOM for $50 off The Customizable Birth Plan Join the Conversation: The Labor Room Facebook group is a place to connect with other moms for support. CLICK HERE to learn more about our online birth, breastfeeding, and baby care courses that will help you feel prepared and empowered on your journey to and through motherhood. Sign up for the Week by Week Pregnancy Email Sequence: https://alifeinlabor.com/weekbyweek *From time to time, the host or guests may discuss topics related to health, fitness, nutrition, or medicine. This information is not advice and should not be treated as medical advice. All content is for informational purposes only* Support the show Support the show