Best BLYSS Podcasts (2025)

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#433: Q & A with Dr. K, Pregnancy Specialist 1:39:16

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5h ago1:39:16

1:39:16

In this week’s episode, Dr. Stu hosts a maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialist known on Instagram as Dr. K Pregnancy Specialist. From the rising C-section rates and the impact of continuous fetal monitoring, to the role of litigation in shaping medical practice, Dr. K shares her insights and the importance of incorporating midwifery approaches. T…

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#432: The History of Alcohol & Pregnancy 1:24:56

6d ago1:24:56

1:24:56

In this weeks episode, Blyss and Stu examine the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure, providing historical context and the latest research findings. They discuss the relevance of abstinence from alcohol during pregnancy and the challenges of interpreting self-reported research data. Mentioned in This Episode Stu’s 9/11 reflections on Patreon Presid…

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#431: "Hold Your Beer" It's Fetal Macrosomia Guidelines 1:30:22

13d ago1:30:22

1:30:22

This week Blyss and Stu go on a deep dive into macrosomia, also known as a large baby. They review extensive data from multiple sources, including ACOG, NICE guidelines, and the Big Baby Study, and discuss the implications of predicted and actual macrosomia. They discuss risk factors, maternal and fetal morbidity, ultrasound accuracy, the pros and …

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#430: Blood Transfusion Alternatives & Risks Explained 1:04:41

20d ago1:04:41

1:04:41

In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, Blyss was experiencing issues with her wifi so Stu tackled the topic of blood transfusions solo. He discusses the challenges and alternatives to blood transfusions, particularly focusing on the concerns of patients who decline blood products due to personal, medical, or religious reasons. The episo…

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#429: The Passing of a Legend: Our Tribute To Michel Odent 1:09:11

27d ago1:09:11

1:09:11

In this heartfelt episode, Blyss and Stu pay tribute to the late Michel Odent, a luminary in the field of childbirth and midwifery. They reminisce about his groundbreaking contributions in the world of birth. A strong supporter of water birth, advocating for hormonal understanding in labor, and his unwavering belief in the power of love and natural…

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#428: Venous Thromboembolism (DVT & PE) in Pregnancy, Sorting Through The Data 1:33:09

1M ago1:33:09

1:33:09

In this week's episode, Blyss and Stu discuss the medical complexities of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) during pregnancy. They particularly focus on a listener's experience with blood clots during her second pregnancy and explore the risks, treatments, and recommendations associated with VTE. The discussion includes in-de…

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#427: Changing The Narrative with Girls Who Know® Founder Laurisa Paul 1:31:20

1M ago1:31:20

1:31:20

In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss interview Larissa Paul, founder of 'Girls Who Know®,' an organization dedicated to educating young girls about their bodies, menstrual cycles, and childbirth. They highlight how early education, and the knowing one's body can empower young girls, reduce fear, and lead to b…

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#426: Gail Tully of Spinning Babies, Finally 1:32:21

2M ago1:32:21

1:32:21

In this episode, Stu and Blyss are joined by Gail Tully, the founder of Spinning Babies, to discuss the intricate dynamics of birth and fetal positioning. Gail shares both her personal journey and the scientific insights that have shaped Spinning Babies. Together they explore how balance, gravity, and movement can impact labor, and how practitioner…

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#425: Yoga Is A State Of Being with Claire Holloway 1:18:44

2M ago1:18:44

1:18:44

In this week's episode of the Birthing Instincts podcast, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss Young are joined by Claire Holloway, founder of the Center for Bright Beginnings. Claire discusses the deeper philosophy of yoga, highlighting its relevance not just during pregnancy but as a preparation for home birth and beyond. She explains how yoga supports auto…

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#424: If You Teach A Woman To Fish...A Talk On Restorative Reproductive Medicine with Dr. Marguerite Duane 1:42:11

2M ago1:42:11

1:42:11

This week Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss are joined by Dr. Marguerite Duane to discuss the shortcomings of conventional infertility treatments and the promising potential of Restorative Reproductive Medicine (RRM). Dr. Duane, a family physician and expert in RRM, explains the importance of treating infertility as a symptom of underlying health issues ra…

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#423: Elective Sterilization: Navigating Permanent Birth Control 59:35

2M ago59:35

59:35

In this episode of the Birthing Instincts podcast, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss discuss elective sterilization methods such as vasectomy and tubal ligation. The episode details the procedures, potential complications, and success rates of reversals, offering a comprehensive overview of the various sterilization methods. Blyss brings the conversation b…

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#422: What Are Legitimate Reasons For Induction? 1:11:38

3M ago1:11:38

1:11:38

In this week’s episode, Blyss and Stu discuss various reasons for medical inductions, the process involved in hospital inductions, and alternative methods like castor oil and homeopathic remedies that can be pursued for a more natural approach. Listener stories highlight personal experiences with induction, offering insight into both the challenges…

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#421: Turn Down The Power: Patti Wood On Radiation Exposure 1:27:18

3M ago1:27:18

1:27:18

This week Blyss and Stu welcome Patti Wood, founder and executive director of Grassroots Environmental Education, to discuss the potential risks of exposure to cell phones and other wireless devices, particularly focusing on their effects on fetal development and general human health. About Patti: Patricia Wood is the founder and Executive Director…

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#420: Periodontal Disease & Health Is Often Overlooked with Stacia Garmon, RDH 1:09:53

3M ago1:09:53

1:09:53

In this episode, Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss are joined by Stacia Garmon, a dental hygienist who shares her expertise on periodontal disease and its potential impact on overall health, including its association with heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, preterm birth, and stillbirth. Additionally, Stac…

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#419: Thank you, I love you. Our Conversation on the book "Yoni Owner's Manual" with Ibu Robin Lim 1:23:31

3M ago1:23:31

1:23:31

In this week's podcast, Blyss and Stu are joined by renowned midwife and author Robin Lim to explore her new book, The Yoni Owner's Manual. Robin shares her awe-inspiring experiences and insights into midwifery, childbirth, and the spiritual aspects of the female body, emphasizing the importance of pleasure and the interconnectedness of humans with…

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#418: What Zookeepers Know & Obstetricians Have Forgotten: A Conversation with Author Milli Hill 1:32:26

3M ago1:32:26

1:32:26

In this edition of The Birthing Instincts podcast, Dr. Stu hosts an enlightening discussion with guest Millie Hill, a renowned writer and feminist advocate. Millie, the author of 'The Positive Birth Book' and 'Birth Like a Feminist,' shares her journey from a drama therapist to a prolific writer on childbirth and women's health. The conversation de…

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#417: Midwifery & The Conundrum Of The Legislative Process with Ellie Stangl 1:22:30

4M ago1:22:30

1:22:30

This week Dr. Stu is solo as Blyss is away and joined by guest Ellie Stangl, a certified doula and legislative aide in Nebraska. Together they delve into the legislative process affecting maternity care: Does anyone understand the process? Does it make any logical sense? The short answer is no, but dive into this conversation with us to dig deeper …

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#416: Disentangling Mono-chorionic Twins 1:29:44

4M ago1:29:44

1:29:44

This week Dr. Stu and Midwife Blyss do a deep dive into mono-chorionic twin pregnancies, with a focus on debunking common myths about mono-mono twins. Drawing on recent research and personal experiences, they explore topics like the risks of twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), cord entanglement, and the overall safety of vaginal deliveries fo…

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#415: Your Menstrual Cycle As A Window To Your Health. Our thoughtful discussion with "The Fifth Vital Sign" author, Lisa Hendrickson-Jack 1:30:25

4M ago1:30:25

1:30:25

This week Blyss and Stu discuss the importance of understanding the menstrual cycle with guest Lisa Hendrickson-Jack, author of The Fifth Vital Sign. Lisa brings not only her personal experiences with menstrual health, but also her expertise in the roles of basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and cervical position in fertility awareness. They h…

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#414: Advocacy is a Team Sport 1:26:24

4M ago1:26:24

1:26:24

Join us for an in-depth conversation with Meredith Nelson and Alicia Fishbein, board-certified patient advocates and seasoned doulas from Intentional Birth. The episode explores the critical role of advocacy in childbirth, covering topics from prenatal visits to labor and NICU challenges. Learn how to navigate hospitals, advocate effectively for cl…

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#413: Rediscovering Ancient Postpartum Traditions: Pelvic Steaming with Valerie Wiesner 1:01:42

5M ago1:01:42

1:01:42

While Dr. Stu was busy teaching breech in Texas, Blyss hosted Valerie Wiesner to discuss the practice of vaginal steaming, its benefits, and the ancient traditions associated with it. Valerie shares her extensive experience in sacred postpartum care and describes how steaming can help with postpartum recovery, menstrual irregularities, fertility is…

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#412: When Advocacy Isn’t Enough with Lara Janson 1:29:32

5M ago1:29:32

1:29:32

In this episode, Blyss is joined by Lara Jason, an assistant professor of sociology at Grinnell College, as she shares her powerful and emotional story about her breech birth experience. Despite her extensive preparations and strong advocacy skills, Lara experienced a traumatic birth intervention that violated her consent, echoing her past experien…

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#411: Awareness & The Healing Of Future Generations with Dr. Stanton Hom 1:37:19

5M ago1:37:19

1:37:19

This week we welcome Dr. Stanton Hom, to discuss a variety of topics from the impacts of vaccinations on children to the decline in global fertility rates. About Dr. Stanton Hom – DC, DACCP, CCWP is the Founder of Future Generations: a global movement normalizing vibrant health for life by providing freedom focused care and education so we can expe…

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#410: Labor Preferences, Not Birth Plan! No Apology With Doula Lia Berquist 1:32:58

5M ago1:32:58

1:32:58

This week, with Blyss still on the road, Stu is joined by guest co-host Raquel Hernandez as they talk to guest Lia Berquist about the importance of birth plans. Lia, a doula and birth educator, provides insights on what it takes to create a strong birth plan. She emphasizes the foundational role of comprehensive childbirth education and the need fo…

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#409: Facts On Vax & So Much Else with Dr. Paul Thomas 1:35:16

6M ago1:35:16

1:35:16

In this week's episode of The Birthing Instincts Podcast, Blyss and Stu welcome renowned pediatrician and author Dr. Paul Thomas to discuss his book, Vax Facts. They discuss a range of topics related to pediatric health and vaccinations. Dr. Thomas talks about his background, the studies he's conducted on vaccine safety, and the differences in heal…

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#408: Neonatal Jaundice. Be Vigilant, Not Overzealous. 1:20:23

6M ago1:20:23

1:20:23

This week Dr. Stu and Midwife emphasizes discuss newborn jaundice, including its types, causes, and treatments. They explore physiologic jaundice, breastfeeding jaundice, and human milk jaundice, explaining the pathophysiology behind each and the typical clinical signs to observe. Blyss emphasizes the importance of vigilant yet balanced medical car…

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#407: Waking Up and Challenging the Narrative 1:06:45

6M ago1:06:45

1:06:45

Blyss and Stu discuss a wide range of topics affecting maternity and healthcare, from home births and their underestimated safety to the new regulations threatening the role of doulas. They critique flawed studies, including the infamous Wax paper, and highlight a recent ruling by the European Court of Justice holding doctors accountable for admini…

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#406: Trusting your scope of comfort with Free Birth Society Founder, Emilee Saldaya 1:49:40

6M ago1:49:40

1:49:40

Since the airing of this episode, we have been made aware of a Reddit post sharing a number of allegations against the practices and character of our guest. We are aware of the situation and encourage everyone to be diligent when seeking out resources/support. https://www.reddit.com/r/FreeBirthSocietyScam/ ______ This week Blyss and Stu invite Emil…

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#405: "Call The Neighbour" Birthing Wisdom From Traditional Birth Companion, Billie Harrigan 1:31:06

7M ago1:31:06

1:31:06

In this episode, Blyss and Stu delve into a rich conversation with Billie Harrigan, who discusses her role as a traditional birth companion and the importance of home birth. Billie offers insights into the origins and flaws of regulated midwifery, the rise of obstetric violence, and the increasing stillbirth rates. She emphasizes the need for resil…

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#404 Birth & Beliefs, Some Core Principles From Liz Wheeler 1:22:01

7M ago1:22:01

1:22:01

Liz Wheeler from Blaze TV's 'The Liz Wheeler Show' joins the Birthing Instincts Podcast for an insightful discussion on the flaws within the American medical system and the importance of trusting one's body in the birthing process. Liz shares her personal journey through preterm labor, experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum, and navigating the medical…

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#403 VBAC or Cesarean, An Honest Assessment of Risk & Benefit. 1:04:13

7M ago1:04:13

1:04:13

In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, Blyss and Dr. Stu explore the risks and benefits of cesarean sections (C-sections) and vaginal births after cesareans (VBACs). They discuss the pros and cons of home births versus hospital births. In a hospital setting, expectant parents benefit from a large, skilled medical team, while home births…

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#402 Why Does Mystery Stop At The Hospital Door?: A discussion of Homeopathy with Midwife Laurie Fremgen 1:13:17

7M ago1:13:17

1:13:17

In this episode of the Birthing Instincts Podcast, we explore the possibilities of homeopathy and homeopathic remedies. The benefits of this type of alternative treatment for pregnancy, labor, and related issues are numerous, with the most significant advantage being the absence of side effects. Mothers can be prescribed homeopathic remedies withou…

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#401 Are We Done With Oxygen? NRP revisited with Michele Kazmier 1:17:35

7M ago1:17:35

1:17:35

Join Blyss and Dr. Stu in this episode as they welcome Michele Kazmier to the show. Michele is a home birth midwife passionate about holistic neonatal transition. During the episode, she shares her insights on the NRP guidelines for newborn care, explaining why oxygen is often used for resuscitating newborns at birth instead of room air, and how to…

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#400 The Sanctity of Postpartum with Birthfit's Lindsey Matthews Cantu 1:04:52

8M ago1:04:52

1:04:52

In this episode of Birthing Instincts, Blyss and Dr. Stu welcome Lindsey Mathews Cantu, a strength and conditioning coach at Birthfit. Birthfit offers specialized strength and conditioning training tailored for mothers and their motherhood journey. Throughout the conversation, Lindsey shares her personal experience of giving birth and discusses how…

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#399 Let's Begin Again with Zach Bush, MD 1:21:35

8M ago1:21:35

1:21:35

Welcome to another episode of Birthing Instincts Podcast. In this episode, Blyss and Dr. Stu welcome Zach Bush, MD, to the show. Zach is an incredible thinker and orator on many relevant topics that affect us all. The conversation ventures into the realm of maternity care, optimal health, and the medical system in general. Zach's responses to these…

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#398 Bandl's Ring, like life itself, is perplexing 1:04:53

8M ago1:04:53

1:04:53

Before getting into today's topic, Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss the maternity care crisis in California that has been impacting local birth centers. They explain Bandl's Ring more in-depth and explain how it's detected. Bandl's Ring is a constriction in the uterus and a sign of obstructed labor. It obstructs normal labor and can put the lower uterine …

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BONUS Reflecting on a Monumental Weekend in Washington D.C.: Empowering Change in Maternal Health 48:26

8M ago48:26

48:26

In this special bonus episode Dr. Stu recaps his remarkable experiences in Washington D.C. with Lindsay Meehleis and Katie Allen. They had the honor of attending the 'Make America Healthy Again' gala and be a part of history. The episode captures emotional reflections and insights into their advocacy efforts, aiming to bring significant changes to …

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#397 From The Cry Of A Mother, "Just The Inserts" was Born 1:01:18

8M ago1:01:18

1:01:18

Why isn't healthcare more personalized? This is the question our guest today aims to address. Alexandra is the founder of Just the Inserts, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals with accessible and transparent information about medical choices. In today's conversation, you'll learn about the reasons behind this lack of personalization, the…

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#396 Downsides of Induction 1:02:02

9M ago1:02:02

1:02:02

Induced labors have pros and cons. For moms on the verge of delivery, it is fundamental to understand the whole scenery to make the best decision. However, interfering with the natural process can harm both the mother and the baby. Common risks of inducing labor are infections, postpartum hemorrhages, bleeding, umbilical cord issues, and general di…

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#395 Certified Human: The era of A.I. is upon us 57:29

9M ago57:29

57:29

Welcome to this week's of the Birthing Instincts Podcast! In this episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss share their insights on various cases submitted via email. They discuss best practices for blood transfusions during pregnancy and delivery, the probable causes and symptoms of Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR), and the detection and risks associated w…

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#394 Reminiscing 2024 1:03:46

9M ago1:03:46

1:03:46

Join us in celebrating a journey of health, inspiration, and empowerment as we welcome 2025! In this special episode, Dr. Stu and Blyss recap the year's podcast episodes, highlighting important topics discussed throughout. They also share the victories and challenges from both their personal and professional lives, along with exciting upcoming proj…

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#393 Breast Has Always Been Best w/ IBCLC & Mom, Jaimie Zaki 1:36:00

9M ago1:36:00

1:36:00

In this episode of Birthing Instincts Podcast, Dr. Stu and Blyss welcome Jaimie Zaki, an LPN, doula, IBCLC, and mom of 5 dedicated to transforming breastfeeding support. The importance of breastfeeding for the mental and emotional development of the baby is undebatable. On the same note, moms can benefit from breastfeeding as well since it reduces …

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#392 Twin Home Birth Outcomes Published…Finally, with Rixa Freeze, PhD 1:41:57

10M ago1:41:57

1:41:57

Today, Dr. Stu welcomes Dr. Rixa Freeze to discuss their paper “Twin Home Birth Outcomes” more deeply and all the topics related to this theme. You will learn more about the connection between twin pregnancies and breech birth and why it is common for one or both babies to be in a breech position, as well as the mode of delivery. Dr. Rixa Freeze ha…

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#391 The Wisdom To Know The Difference 1:23:16

10M ago1:23:16

1:23:16

In this episode, Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss the importance of identifying the things you can do to feel better when you feel overwhelmed. Pinpointing the primary source of overwhelm is important, but finding ways to find relief is fundamental to getting out of this state. The other important thing to do is to go back to the basics. Having a good nig…

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#390 Call To Action: Time to Make Mothers Healthy Again 1:27:34

10M ago1:27:34

1:27:34

Today, Blyss and Dr. Stu discuss a variety of topics, which is always exciting. They reflect on the changes in the medical field over the last 30 years, the decision to take or not take vaccines during pregnancy, and the urgent need for both medical professionals and the general public to focus on making mothers and their children healthy again. Th…

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#389 Maternity Care Is The Most Important Care with Functional Medicine Practitioner, Sarah Thompson 1:42:51

10M ago1:42:51

1:42:51

Sarah Thompson joins us today to discuss the aspects of functional medicine and its connection to pregnancy and maternity care. Unlike conventional medicine, which largely follows a standardized educational framework, functional medicine focuses on understanding each person and creating a treatment plan to meet their specific needs. Another key fea…

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#388 Our Food System Is Completely Bonkers with Mama Meals founders Holly & Eric Stein 1:26:47

10M ago1:26:47

1:26:47

Holly and Eric Stein join us to share their journey from overcoming chronic health issues to pioneering a nationwide postpartum meal delivery service with Mama Meals. Bursting with passion for food activism, they reveal how nutrient-dense foods can be transformative not only for postpartum mothers but for anyone on a healing journey. With insights …

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#387 High Risk - What Does It Really Mean? 1:30:28

11M ago1:30:28

1:30:28

Obstetricians regularly use terms like high risk, safer, evidence based and standard of care as if they all have an agreed upon definition. THEY DON'T! Today Blyss & Dr. Stu discuss the use and misuse of language and the corruption of definitions in the maternity care world. What or who determines the standard of care? Are labels of high risk indic…

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#386 We've Been Bamboozled, Musings on CTG with Dr. David Hayes 1:37:59

11M ago1:37:59

1:37:59

Join us for an enlightening discussion as we welcome Dr. David Hayes, who brings his expertise to the complex realm of continuous fetal monitoring in labor rooms. Together, we highlight the importance of empowering laboring mothers with information about their birthing choices, as well as sharing our excitement about upcoming speaking engagements f…

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#385 Co-Sleep Discussion with Integrative Infant Sleep Specialist, Brittany Chambers 1:39:50

11M ago1:39:50

1:39:50

Join us for an enlightening conversation as Brittany Chambers, an integrative infant sleep specialist, shares her wisdom on co-sleeping—a practice that many parents naturally gravitate toward but find themselves battling against societal norms. Together, we challenge the conventional wisdom and prevailing beliefs around infant sleep, examining the …