The Birth Lounge Podcast

HeHe Stewart
  • 4.7 (88)
  • Education
  • Updated Daily

We’re exploring option from conception to childhood to help women take control of their fertility, birth experience, postpartum healing, and motherhood journey! This is a safe space for all parents to hear what the experts have to say and to hear from influencer parents and their take on parenthood! Join us for all things birth and parenthood for an empowering and educational walk with a birth and newborn expert and the found of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, HeHe Stewart.

  1. 1d ago

    Ep. 466: Vaccine Schedules, Herd Immunity, and Informed Consent with Dr. Bob Sears (The Vaccine Book Author)

    In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe continues her series on one of the most requested and emotionally charged topics in parenting: vaccines. She's joined by pediatrician and The Vaccine Book author, Dr. Bob Sears, for a thoughtful conversation about vaccine schedules, informed consent, and why so many parents feel caught between asking questions and feeling heard. Together, they explore how vaccine recommendations have evolved over time, what influences the current childhood vaccine schedule, and why trust between families and the medical system has become increasingly strained. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Sears shares his perspective on topics including timing of vaccination, measles and the MMR vaccine, herd immunity, newborn protection strategies, breastfeeding antibodies, and questions many parents have about vaccine ingredients, package inserts, MTHFR, and vaccine safety research. He also discusses why some families seek individualized approaches to vaccination and what he believes parents should consider when making decisions with their healthcare provider. As with every episode in this series, this conversation is not intended to tell you what decisions to make for your family. Instead, HeHe's goal is to create space for respectful discussion, equip parents with information, and encourage thoughtful conversations with trusted healthcare providers so you can make informed decisions that align with your family's values. Whether you're firmly decided, still gathering information, or simply curious about the questions many parents are asking, this episode invites you into a conversation centered on nuance, critical thinking, and respectful dialogue. 00:00 Vaccine Indoctrination Claim 01:08 Advocacy Scripts for Birth 04:22 Vaccine Series and Guest Intro 11:42 Why Trust Broke Down 39:24 Vaccines and Immune System Theory 49:35 Why MMR Hits Hard 52:18 Measles Risk and Nutrition 56:42 Vaccine Side Effects Data Gap 01:01:13 Herd Immunity Myth 01:04:31 Newborn Cocooning and Shedding 01:11:35 Pregnancy Vaccine Repeat Doses 01:14:43 MTHFR and Vaccine Decisions 01:20:18 Will Diseases Return 01:23:43 Finding Like Minded Care 01:26:35 Resources and Farewell Guest Bio: Dr. Bob Sears is a pediatrician, vaccine educator, and author of The Vaccine Book. He earned his medical degree at Georgetown University School of Medicine and did his pediatric internship and residency at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. With the ongoing threat of mandatory vaccination laws, Dr. Bob’s mission is to insure that all families worldwide receive complete, objective, and un-doctored informed consent before they choose vaccination and that people everywhere retain the freedom to make healthcare decisions for themselves and their children.   https://drbobsears.com/ SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Dr. Sears on IG: https://www.instagram.com/drbobsears BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin   Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app   LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.vaclib.org/basic/health/patientchoicedoctors.htm Just the Inserts website: find vaccine inserts on this website and vaccine friendly Pediatricians  Dr. Green mom’s list of vaccine friendly Pediatricians: https://drgreenmom.com/find-a-vaccine-friendly-doctor/

    1h 32m

  2. 3d ago

    Ep. 465: Parenting A Spicy One with Mary Van Geffen

    Today's episode is brought to you by Two Pages Curtains. As a new mom, HeHe quickly realized how much her home environment impacted her postpartum recovery. Two Pages' beautiful cotton and linen curtains helped transform her home into a calmer, cozier space without sacrificing healthier materials. Visit twopagescurtains.com and use code HEHE to save on your favorite styles. In this episode, HeHe sits down with international parenting coach Mary Van Geffen for a conversation every parent of a “spicy” child needs to hear. 💜 We’re talking about the strong-willed, deeply feeling, highly perceptive kids who are often labeled “too much,” “difficult,” or “defiant” when really… they just experience the world differently. HeHe opens up about her own experience growing up labeled as a strong-willed child and how years of psychology education, therapy, and nervous system work helped her realize the problem was never that she was “bad.” More often, parents simply weren’t given the tools, support, or understanding needed to parent kids with intense temperaments. Together, HeHe and Mary unpack what’s actually happening beneath tantrums, power struggles, emotional explosions, and big reactions. They talk about nervous systems, attachment, triggers rooted in our own childhoods, and why “connect before you direct” changes everything when parenting highly sensitive or persistent kids. You’ll also hear practical conversations around boundaries that are calm and firm, respectful parenting vs. permissive parenting, repairing after conflict, parenting teenagers with curiosity instead of control, and how to regulate yourself before trying to regulate your child. This episode is validating, healing, and packed with practical tools for parents who want to raise emotionally healthy kids without shame, fear, or constant power struggles. And if you’ve ever worried that your child is “too much” or that you’re somehow failing as a parent… this conversation is going to feel like a giant exhale. 💜   Guest Bio: Mary Van Geffen is the international parenting coach for Moms of Spicy Ones®️, as well as a legit Spicy One herself. She wrote the book on thriving when your child ‘s needs feel overwhelming titled, Parenting A Spicy One: A Compassionate Guide for Raising a Wonderfully Strong-Willed and Deep Feeling Kid. (The book is Amazon’s 2026 top new release in both Motherhood and Parenting School Aged Children!) Mary’s work helps parents practice the spiritual discipline of staying calm, kind, and firm with their strong-willed kids - especially when they don't deserve it. She combines her training as a Simplicity Parenting counselor and Professional Co-Active Coach with hard-earned personal experience raising her own spirited daughter and mild-mannered son.She has transformed the lives of over eight thousand mothers with her on-line support group Moms of Spicy Ones Academy that includes hours of on-demand digital parenting classes and group coaching. Mary shares daily inspiration for loving your child and yourself with her 400,000 followers on Instagram. Her greatest achievement is cultivating a connected relationship with both her adult Spicy One child and her Spicy One Enneagram 8 mother. Connect with Mary:  maryvangeffen.com SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Mary on IG: https://www.instagram.com/maryvangeffen BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

    1h 15m

  3. 4d ago

    Ep. 464: The Mindf*cks of Motherhood: Mom Friends, “You’re So Lucky,” and Not Missing Your Old Life Solocast with HeHe Stewart

    If you're exhausted from wondering whether your baby's sleep is normal, you're not alone. That's exactly why I created the Newborn Sleep Solution. It's an evidence-based guide that walks you through newborn sleep, wake windows, naps, feeding, and what's actually realistic in those first few months, so you can stop second-guessing yourself and start feeling confident. Grab it at https://www.thebirthlounge.com/newbornsleep  In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe gets real about three things that completely caught her off guard in motherhood now that she's 6-7 months postpartum. She opens up about how becoming a mom unexpectedly changed her friendships, why some of the people she thought would show up haven't, and how fellow moms have become some of her biggest sources of support. She also shares the surprising emotions that come up when people chalk her postpartum experience, baby's temperament, sleep, or travel success up to "luck" instead of recognizing the intentional, evidence-based choices behind them. Finally, HeHe reflects on something she never expected to feel: how little she misses her pre-baby life. While motherhood has absolutely stretched and challenged her, she talks honestly about why she's never wanted to "go back," how becoming Saggy's mom has shifted her priorities, and what it's looked like to intentionally build a life and business that support both her family and the community she loves serving. If you've ever wondered whether your friendships will change after baby, felt frustrated when your hard work gets dismissed as luck, or found yourself navigating the identity shift that comes with becoming a parent, this episode is an honest reminder that you're not alone. It might just leave you feeling a little more seen. 00:00 Three Things I Can’t Shake 00:57 Free Advocacy Scripts 04:12 Explicit Language Warning 04:32 Mindfucks of Motherhood Intro 05:37 Mom Friends Shift 08:47 Friendships After Baby 11:08 Offended by “Lucky” 18:15 Intentional Parenting Not Luck 25:13 Missing Old Life Less 32:18 Wrap Up and Where to Follow SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

    34 min

  4. Jul 1

    Ep. 463: Baby Reflux Explained: Silent Reflux, Root Causes & What Actually Helps with Aine Homer [ Re-air Ep. 219: Baby Reflux]

    In this re-aired episode, HeHe sits down with reflux specialist Aine Homer to unpack one of the most stressful (and most misunderstood) newborn challenges: baby reflux. 💜 If you’ve ever found yourself wondering “Is this normal spit-up or something more?” or spending hours soothing a crying, uncomfortable baby with no clear answers, this conversation is going to feel incredibly validating. Aine breaks down the difference between normal infant spit-up, reflux, and silent reflux, and explains why reflux is not a diagnosis on its own, but a symptom pointing to something deeper. Together, HeHe and Aine explore the many possible root contributors—from feeding mechanics and overfeeding, to swallowed air, birth interventions, allergies and intolerances, oral restrictions like tongue ties, nervous system stress, and even microbiome imbalance. They also walk through common medical approaches, what medications like H2 blockers and PPIs actually do, and the considerations families should understand when weighing treatment options. Most importantly, this episode gives you a “puzzle piece” framework for understanding your baby’s symptoms, plus practical strategies to help you cope in those long, exhausting stretches when nothing seems to soothe your baby. This episode is equal parts educational and deeply reassuring—reminding parents that reflux isn’t something you just “wait out,” and you are not wrong for wanting answers and support when something feels off. 00:00 Trust Your Parent Instincts 00:59 Non Toxic Registry Plug 04:50 Reflux Episode Setup 08:10 What Reflux Really Is 12:57 Spit Up Balloon Theory 16:45 Simple Fixes Burps Feeds 18:39 When Spit Up Signals More 22:04 Reflux Is A Symptom 25:45 Reflux Free Journey Map 29:14 Upright Time And Tongue Ties 37:44 Chewing For Facial Tone 38:22 Tongue Posture Basics 38:55 Nasal Breathing For Kids 42:02 Reflux Remedies And Red Flags 47:05 Meds Risks Probiotics And Support Connect with Aine: https://www.thebabyrefluxlady.co.uk   Guest Bio: Áine is the mum of two girls who between them had diagnoses of colic, reflux, silent reflux, CMPA, and multiple other food intolerances and allergies. Coupled with a three year relationship with post natal depression, left her feeling lost, alone and like she didnt even know who she was anymore. During that time, her instinct was to always listen to her babies, even though she wasn’t naturally maternal, and so she never accepted the explanations that the healthcare professionals offered. Her daughters WERE in pain, and there HAD to be a reason. With a background in mechanical engineering, maths and then retraining in 2012 in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Áine believed that there was one question which would unlock the answers for her babies. And that is still the same question she supports her clients around the world to answer for these children. And that is “What is causing your babys distress?” No matter what is going on for your baby, the answer to this question brings pathways for resolution. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with GUEST on IG:  BIRTH EDUCATION: Skip the registry overwhelm. HeHe spent 60+ hours researching baby gear, comparing brands, and digging into everything from microplastics and forever chemicals to quality and functionality, so you don't have to. Grab her free Low-Tox Baby Registry Guide for the exact products she chose for her own baby, plus the reasoning behind every recommendation: thebirthlounge.com/registry   Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin   Resources: https://www.uptodate.com/contents/acid-reflux-gastroesophageal-reflux-in-babies-beyond-the-basics  https://llli.org/why-infant-reflux-matters/  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/abdominal/Pages/GERD-Reflux.aspx  https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/gerd

    1h 10m

  5. Jun 26

    Ep. 462: How Maximus Met Saggy: Boundaries, Safety Rules & What Actually Worked

    In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe is sharing something so many dog parents worry about during pregnancy: bringing home a baby and introducing them to the family dog. After receiving countless questions about Maximus Prime and baby Saggy, HeHe pulls back the curtain on exactly what she did (and didn't do) to prepare her 13-year-old dog for life with a newborn. She shares the boundaries, routines, and safety rules that helped create a calm and respectful relationship between her baby and her dog, while also protecting Max's comfort and autonomy. HeHe talks about why she wasn't focused on creating an instant "best friends" relationship, the importance of giving dogs choice and space, and how setting clear expectations from day one can help everyone feel safer and more relaxed. She also shares the specific rules her family follows around petting, licking, feeding areas, supervision, and respecting a dog's body language. As Max has aged and lost his vision due to diabetes, these conversations around boundaries and safety have become even more important. This episode offers a realistic look at what it means to raise a baby alongside an older dog while honoring the needs of both. Whether you're pregnant and preparing to bring home a baby, navigating life with pets and little ones, or simply curious about how HeHe handled introducing Saggy to Max, this episode is packed with practical tips and a gentle reminder that successful dog-baby relationships are built through respect, boundaries, and consistency, not luck. You'll learn: How HeHe introduced Max to baby Saggy The safety rules her family follows every day Why supervision is non-negotiable around dogs and babies How to create "baby spaces" and "dog spaces" Why consent and body language matter, even with family pets How to support an aging dog during a major family transition What a healthy dog-and-baby relationship actually looks like If you're a dog parent preparing for life with a baby, this episode will help you feel more confident, prepared, and realistic about what success can look like. For more about introducing your baby and your dog, listen to our episode with dog trainer, children's book author, and founder of Dog Meets Baby, Dominika Knossalla-Pado https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V_7LI1p2f1Q SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

    25 min

  6. Jun 24

    Ep. 461: What I wish dog parents did before bringing home their baby with Dominika Knossalla-Pado

    Grab HeHe’s free Low-Tox Baby Registry Guide for the exact products she chose for baby Saggy, plus the reasoning behind every recommendation: thebirthlounge.com/registry In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with certified dog trainer, children's book author, and founder of Dog Meets Baby, Dominika Knossalla-Pado, for a conversation every dog parent needs to hear before bringing home a baby. We all love the idea of our dog instantly becoming our baby's best friend. But the reality? Safe, successful relationships between dogs and babies don't happen by accident. They happen through preparation, boundaries, and understanding what our dogs are actually communicating. Dominika shares the personal experience that inspired her work after her own beloved Labrador displayed concerning behavior around her newborn twins. That experience revealed a major gap in education for growing families and sparked her mission to help parents safely navigate life with both dogs and children. Together, HeHe and Dominika break down the biggest mistakes families make before baby arrives, the common myths that can create unnecessary risk, and the practical skills every dog should have before postpartum begins. They discuss how to prepare your dog for major household changes, why separation tolerance matters, and how simple routines can make the transition smoother for everyone involved. You'll also learn how to recognize subtle signs of stress in dogs, including behaviors that are often misunderstood or overlooked, safer ways to introduce your baby and dog, and why supervision and management are far more important than simply trusting that your dog will "figure it out." This conversation isn't about fear, blame, or assuming the worst about your dog. It's about setting your family up for success, protecting your baby, reducing stress for your dog, and creating an environment where both can thrive. Whether you're expecting your first baby, currently pregnant, or already navigating life with little ones and furry family members, this episode is packed with practical, judgment-free strategies to help your home feel safer, calmer, and more prepared for this huge life transition. 00:00 Labrador Hunting Scare 01:27 Meet Dog Meets Baby 08:30 How Predation Looked 15:10 Breeds and Temperament 20:07 Pregnancy Prep Essentials 39:34 Low Tox Registry Picks 43:34 Bed Training Basics 50:35 Safe Boundaries Rules 56:03 Stress Signs And Introductions 01:04:54 Labor Myths And Wrap Up   Guest Bio: Dominika is a Certified Dog Trainer, Children's Book Author, and the founder of Dog Meets Baby. When her beloved Labrador, Lola, showed predatory behavior toward her newborn twins, Dominika realized most parents lack the tools and knowledge to navigate these moments safely. This experience inspired her to found Dog Meets Baby, now a trusted resource for families worldwide through their online courses, consultations, and free resources. Connect with Dominika:  https://www.dogmeetsbaby.expert/ LINKS MENTIONED: Teach your dog to go to bed: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dn3UTEBwSH0 SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Dominika on IG: https://www.instagram.com/dogmeets_baby/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app     dog meets baby, dogs and babies, introducing dog to baby, dog and newborn, preparing dog for baby, dog safety around babies, bringing home baby with dog, dog training for new parents, dog behavior around babies, dog stress signals, whale eye dog, dog trainer advice, newborn safety, baby safety tips, parenting podcast, new baby preparation, postpartum preparation, family dog safety, dogs and toddlers, dog meets baby podcast, Dominika Knossalla-Pado, dog aggression prevention, child and dog safety, pet safety for families, baby proofing with dogs, pregnancy preparation, expecting parents, first time parents, dog owner tips, The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe Stewart, Tranquility by HeHe

    1h 20m

  7. Jun 19

    Ep. 460: Your Legal Rights & Informed Consent in Childbirth: Insights from Advocate & Lawyer Hermine Hayes-Klein [Re-air Ep. 283]

    In this re-aired episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with attorney, human rights advocate, and birth justice champion Hermine Hayes-Klein for a conversation every pregnant person needs to hear.   If you've ever wondered whether you can say no during labor, change your mind after signing a consent form, refuse an induction or cesarean, or push back against a hospital policy that doesn't align with your wishes, this episode is for you.   Hermine breaks down what informed consent actually means, what your legal rights are during pregnancy and birth, and why so many families leave their birth experience feeling powerless, unheard, or violated. Together, she and HeHe unpack the difference between hospital policy and patient rights, discuss the reality of obstetric violence in the United States, and explore how coercion and fear-based counseling can impact birth outcomes and long-term mental health.   They also dive into why so many people are losing trust in the maternity care system, how providers can unintentionally override consent, and what happens when patients feel they have no real choice. Hermine shares powerful stories from her legal work advocating for birthing families and explains why being informed before labor begins is one of the most effective ways to protect your autonomy.   You'll learn:   What informed consent actually requires in pregnancy and birth   Why signing hospital paperwork does not mean you've given blanket consent   Whether you can change your mind or withdraw consent during labor   The difference between a recommendation and a requirement   What your rights are if you're being pressured into an induction or cesarean   Why hospital policies are not the same thing as medical necessity   How obstetric violence can occur, even in well-intentioned healthcare settings   The critical role doulas play in supporting informed decision-making   Practical ways to advocate for yourself before and during labor   How preparation can help reduce fear, coercion, and birth trauma   This episode is a powerful reminder that your body is not public property, your consent matters at every stage of labor, and you deserve to understand your options before making decisions about your care.   Guest Bio:   Hermine Hayes-Klein is an attorney, human rights advocate, and founder of the Know Your Rights campaign, which helps families understand and exercise their legal rights during pregnancy and childbirth. After experiencing the Dutch maternity care system firsthand, Hermine became passionate about addressing obstetric violence, protecting informed consent, and improving access to respectful maternity care. Through litigation, education, and advocacy, she works to advance accountability and reproductive justice for birthing families around the world. Connect with Hermine:  Birthrightslawproject.com hayeskleinlaw.com SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Hermine on IG: https://www.instagram.com/herminehayesklein/   BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app   LINKS MENTIONED: Nursing article: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1751485123001587?via%3Dihub Examples of articles referencing how informed consent improves outcomes: https://www.envisionhealth.com/news/2024/shared-decision-making-in-healthcare#:~:text=How%20do%20informed%20consent%20and,the%20overall%20cost%20of%20care. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9486853/

    1h 24m

  8. Jun 17

    Ep. 459: The Vaccine Debate Parents Actually Need from their Pediatrician Drs Alok and Joel

    Today's episode is brought to you by Two Pages Curtains. As a new mom, HeHe quickly realized how much her home environment impacted her postpartum recovery. Two Pages' beautiful cotton and linen curtains helped transform her home into a calmer, cozier space without sacrificing healthier materials. Visit twopagescurtains.com and use code HEHE to save on your favorite styles. In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe brings together two pediatricians with different perspectives on vaccines for a respectful, nuanced conversation about one of the most polarizing topics in modern parenting. Dr. Alok Patel approaches vaccination from a data-driven, public health perspective and generally supports the current CDC vaccine schedule. Dr. Joel takes a more vaccine-neutral approach centered on individualized care, informed consent, parental autonomy, and medical freedom. Rather than debating to "win," both physicians model what many parents have been asking for: thoughtful discussion, mutual respect, and room for questions. Together, they explore why trust between families and the healthcare system has eroded, how pandemic-era messaging impacted public confidence, and what happens when parents feel dismissed for asking questions. The conversation also dives into the challenges of science communication, the role of social media in amplifying division, and whether there is still room for nuance in modern pediatric medicine. Topics discussed include: Why many parents no longer trust the healthcare system and what contributed to that shift How pandemic-era communication affected public confidence in medicine Why questioning vaccines can quickly lead to "anti-vax" labels Whether vaccine recommendations should be more individualized and risk-stratified Concerns surrounding rising rates of chronic illness in children alongside an expanding vaccine schedule What current research can and cannot tell us about vaccine safety Why long-term safety studies and adverse event discussions matter to many parents The ethics and challenges of vaccine research and placebo-controlled trials The role pharmaceutical companies and liability protections play in public perception and vaccine hesitancy Whether pediatricians financially benefit from administering vaccines What informed consent should actually look like in pediatric care The impact of mandates, medical freedom, and public health policy on trust Why respectful disagreement between medical professionals is becoming increasingly rare How parents can navigate conflicting information without fear, shame, or pressure What rebuilding trust between families and medicine may require moving forward Throughout the conversation, HeHe encourages listeners to think critically, ask questions, and bring those questions back to trusted healthcare providers. This episode isn't about telling parents what decisions they should make. It's about creating space for honest conversation around a topic that affects nearly every family. Whether you agree with one doctor, both doctors, or neither, this episode serves as a reminder that curiosity, transparency, and respectful dialogue are essential parts of informed decision-making. Guest Bios: Dr. Alok Patel is a board-certified pediatrician, health communicator, and ABC News contributor known for translating complex medical topics into accessible, evidence-based information. He is passionate about improving public health literacy and helping families make informed healthcare decisions. Dr. Joel "Gator" Warsh is a board-certified pediatrician specializing in integrative and holistic medicine. He focuses on individualized care, informed consent, and empowering families to make healthcare decisions that align with their values and circumstances while maintaining strong patient-provider relationships.   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/  Connect with Dr. Joel on IG: https://www.instagram.com/drjoelgator/   BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

    1h 46m
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4.7
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88 Ratings

About

We’re exploring option from conception to childhood to help women take control of their fertility, birth experience, postpartum healing, and motherhood journey! This is a safe space for all parents to hear what the experts have to say and to hear from influencer parents and their take on parenthood! Join us for all things birth and parenthood for an empowering and educational walk with a birth and newborn expert and the found of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, HeHe Stewart.

Information

  • Creator
    HeHe Stewart
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    455
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2018. All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Birth Lounge Podcast

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