Healthy As A Mother

Dr. Morgan MacDermott & Dr. Leah Gordon
  • 4.9 (270)
  • Alternative Health
  • Updated Weekly

Healthy As A Mother is a podcast for becoming and being a mother, hosted by Dr. Leah Gordon and Dr. Morgan MacDermott, two naturopathic doctors passionate about helping women navigate fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and motherhood through a natural health lens. Each week, we share conversations and education designed to help you become the healthiest mother possible through evidence-based and holistic approaches to wellness. From preconception and pregnancy preparation to postpartum recovery and motherhood, we cover the topics many women are not hearing elsewhere. Real conversations. Honest education. Support for every stage of motherhood.

  1. 16h ago

    Trying to Conceive Is Affecting Your Relationship? How to Stay Connected Through Fertility Struggles | #178

    Trying to conceive can affect so much more than your fertility. It can change your sex life, create resentment, bring old trauma and insecurities to the surface, and leave couples feeling more like roommates than partners. In this episode, Dr. Leah breaks down some of the most common relationship dynamics she sees during a difficult TTC or infertility journey, including the project manager and avoider, silent grievers, sex on schedule, and the unequal burden dynamic. She also shares practical ways to communicate your needs, involve your partner, protect intimacy, shift unhealthy patterns, and create a stronger foundation for the parenthood you're working toward. Most importantly, if trying to conceive has changed your relationship, you're not alone, and it doesn't mean your relationship is doomed. 00:00 Trailer + Intro 01:43 How Trying to Conceive Can Affect Your Relationship 02:47 When TTC Starts Changing Your Relationship 05:07 When Sex Becomes a Chore 06:43 The Vicious Cycle of Libido and Disconnection 10:06 How Hard Times Bring Old Wounds to the Surface 11:43 When Fertility Changes the Relationship Dynamic 16:04 The Project Manager and the Avoider 18:39 Give Your Partner the Map 20:06 The Silent Grievers 21:13 Sex on Schedule and Unequal Burden 25:35 The Hidden Grief of Trying to Conceive 27:30 The Micro-Griefs Women Carry 30:32 When Your Partner Doesn't Know How to Show Up 33:05 Creating the Support You Actually Need 35:30 Reconnecting With Joy and Your Identity 37:46 Giving Your Partner a Clear Role 41:37 Letting Go of Control 43:48 Protecting Polarity and Connection 49:28 What Your Partner Can Actually Do 51:50 Protecting Your Relationship During TTC 55:07 Breaking the Resentment and Disconnection Cycle 57:27 Getting Support and Processing the Hard Stuff 60:44 Building a Stronger Foundation for Parenthood 63:03 You Are Not Alone Resources From This Chapter: The Queen's Code book by Alison Armstrong - https://www.amazon.com/Queens-Code-Alison-Armstrong/dp/B01DAYC348/The Queen's Code Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Kx1WKOBj6ByS9BWrMm3fH?si=afc6a448f29a40a1 Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTube Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Instagram Healthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTok Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch Store Find more from Dr. Leah: Dr. Leah Gordon | Instagram Dr. Leah Gordon | Website Womanhood Wellness | Website Find more from Dr. Morgan: Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Instagram Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Website Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at Earthley Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at Redmond For 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHER Save $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER Use code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

  2. Aug 12

    Raising 6 Kids, Running a Business & Staying Nourished | Alysa Seeland of FOND Regenerative | #177

    When Alysa Seeland's health began falling apart after the birth of her first baby, she was told she would likely need surgery and was left searching for answers. Instead, that journey led her to discover the power of nutrient-dense foods, healing through nourishment, and eventually building Fond Regenerative: a company dedicated to truly traditional bone broth and regenerative foods. In this conversation, Alysa shares her incredible postpartum healing story, why quality bone broth matters, the role of healthy fats during pregnancy and breastfeeding, recovering from Lyme disease, home birth experiences, homeschooling six boys, running a thriving business with her husband, and the practical systems that make large family life possible. If you've ever wondered how to nourish yourself while raising children, or how to let go of perfectionism in motherhood, this episode is packed with encouragement and practical wisdom. 00:00 Trailer & Introduction 03:46 Why Real Bone Broth Matters 05:24 Alysa's Postpartum Health Crisis 09:20 Healing Through Nourishment 12:20 Why Moms Need More Nutrients 19:06 Healthy Fats During Pregnancy & Postpartum 20:46 Childhood Health & Choosing Birth Centers 23:31 Fast Birth Stories & Home Births 26:18 Letting Go of Perfectionism 30:14 Babies Close Together & Pregnancy Nutrition 34:14 Lyme Disease & Pregnancy After Healing 37:27 Managing Expectations With a Large Family 43:06 Homeschooling Six Kids 49:46 Running a Business Together as Parents 52:25 The Problem With Perfectionism 56:40 Family Systems That Actually Work 60:10 Why the Company is Named FOND 61:51 Daily Routine & Work Schedule 65:05 Traveling & Building a Business With Kids 68:36 Healthy Sports Snacks for Kids 72:35 Favorite Ways to Use Bone Broth & Tallow 75:20 Are They Done Having Kids? Resources From This Episode: Use code HAAM and save 10% at Fond - https://fondregenerative.com/HAAMCheck out Fond on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/fondregenerativeFollow Alysa on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/alysaseeland/Dr. Morgan's Pregnancy Call Course - https://milkmedicine.com/lessonsonly/ Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTube Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Instagram Healthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTok Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch Store Find more from Dr. Leah: Dr. Leah Gordon | Instagram Dr. Leah Gordon | Website Womanhood Wellness | Website Find more from Dr. Morgan: Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Instagram Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Website Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at Earthley Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at Redmond For 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHER Save $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER Use code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

  3. Aug 5

    What Every Female Founder Needs to Know Before Getting Pregnant with Natalie Samson | #176

    Whether you're actively trying to conceive, already pregnant, or simply dreaming about becoming a mother one day, this episode explores a topic that rarely gets discussed: what happens when an ambitious woman becomes a mom. Integrative genetic counselor Natalie Samson joins Dr. Leah Gordon for an honest conversation about preparing your business for pregnancy, navigating the identity shift into motherhood, and why success doesn't have to come at the expense of your family. They dive into practical strategies for delegation, building systems before pregnancy, planning for postpartum, and embracing the inevitable changes that come with this new season of life. Whether you're a founder, entrepreneur, healthcare provider, or working professional, this episode offers both mindset shifts and actionable advice for building a business that supports the life you truly want. 00:00 Trailer + Episode Introduction 03:00 Meet Natalie Samson 05:28 What Is Preconception? 06:48 Why Genetic Testing Matters 08:57 Why This Conversation Is Needed 11:05 Will Pregnancy Change Your Ambition? 17:53 Does Your Drive Come Back After Baby? 20:09 The Biggest Lesson Motherhood Teaches Founders 23:20 How to Prepare Your Business Before Pregnancy 28:29 Building Systems That Can Run Without You 3 1:31 Leading Your Team Through Pregnancy 39:10 Does Motherhood Change Your Business Identity? 46:20 The Delegation Exercise Every Founder Needs 48:18 Designing Your Ideal Work Week 57:29 Does Motherhood Make You a Better Founder? 62:49 Final Advice for Ambitious Women Resources From This Episode: Natalie's Genetic Counseling Services - https://www.goldengeneticshealth.com/ Follow Natalie's practice on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/goldengeneticshealth/ Follow Natalie on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/geneticswithnatalie/ Dr. Leah's Womanhood Wellness membership - https://drleahgordon.com/join

  4. Jul 29

    Hyperemesis Gravidarum 101: Why Severe Pregnancy Sickness Can Become Life-Threatening | #175

    Hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) is far more than morning sickness. In this episode, we break down the science behind severe pregnancy nausea and vomiting, including how it's diagnosed, why it happens, potential genetic causes, treatment options, and what current research says. Dr. Morgan explains the latest evidence surrounding GDF-15, risk factors, medications, IV therapy, nutritional deficiencies, and recovery, while Leah shares her own experience with debilitating pregnancy sickness. Whether you've experienced HG yourself, love someone who has, or simply want to better understand this often misunderstood condition, this episode offers education, compassion, and practical resources. 00:00 Introduction 02:17 What Is Hyperemesis Gravidarum? 03:26 Signs & Diagnostic Criteria 05:50 HG vs Severe Morning Sickness 07:41 Risk Factors & Who Is Most Likely to Develop HG 11:55 Health Risks for Mom 18:00 Mental Health & The Emotional Toll 23:16 Effects on Baby 25:33 What Causes Hyperemesis Gravidarum? 27:50 The GDF-15 Gene Explained 30:29 Histamine, Mast Cells & Other Possible Causes 33:31 Recurrence & Future Pregnancies 36:20 Medical Treatment Options 42:04 Natural & Integrative Therapies 46:21 Chinese Medicine vs Acupuncture 50:38 Additional Support Strategies 52:58 Recovery After Hyperemesis 54:53 Final Takeaways & Encouragement Resources From This Episode: Sick - The Battle Against HG - https://www.primevideo.com/detail/0PUSG6EOZI4HTVVAWY18JE66WCHER Foundation https://www.hyperemesis.org/https://herhomeopathy.ca/homeopathy-for-morning-sickness/Gill homeopath - https://consultanthomeopath.com/homeopathySean Chinese Medicine Herbs https://www.folkwiseherbalmedicine.com/

  5. Jul 22

    Mini IVF vs Traditional IVF: A Personalized Fertility Approach with Dr. Lyndon Chang | #174

    If you've been told IVF is your only option, or you've already gone through failed IVF cycles, this episode may completely change the way you think about fertility treatment. Dr. Leah sits down with her personal reproductive endocrinologist Dr. Lyndon Chang, founder of Hanabusa IVF and a pioneer in minimal stimulation IVF, to discuss why fertility treatment shouldn't be one-size-fits-all. Together, they break down the differences between traditional IVF and Mini IVF, why more medications don't always mean better outcomes, how individualized protocols can improve care, and why understanding the root cause of infertility matters just as much as creating embryos. Whether you're just beginning your fertility journey or searching for answers after unsuccessful IVF cycles, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on personalized fertility care. 00:00 Trailer & Introduction 00:53 How Dr. Chang Became an IVF Specialist 04:52 Mini IVF vs. Traditional IVF 08:52 Understanding Your IVF Options 13:27 Why Personalized IVF Matters 18:20 Why IVF Can Fail: Looking Beyond the Embryo 23:20 Natural vs. Medicated Embryo Transfers 27:42 When It's Time to Change IVF Clinics 29:20 Who Can Benefit Most from Mini IVF 30:52 Final Thoughts & Fertility Advice Resources From This Episode: Dr. Chang's Clinic: https://www.hanabusaivf.com/Dr. Leah's Womanhood Wellness Membership: www.womanhoodwellness.com

  6. Jul 15

    Baby Registry Supplies: What's in My Postpartum Cart | #173

    Preparing for postpartum doesn't have to be overwhelming. In this episode, Dr. Morgan shares everything she's putting in her postpartum cart as she prepares for baby number five, including the products she swears by, the items she skips, and why less is often more. From breastfeeding essentials, perineal healing, baby gear, and postpartum supplements to nutrition, mental health, and recovery, this episode is a practical guide for building a postpartum setup that truly supports both mom and baby. Whether you're expecting your first baby or your fifth, you'll walk away knowing what actually deserves a spot on your registry, and what doesn't. 00:00 Trailer + Intro 02:15 Why You Don't Need Everything 07:46 Breastfeeding Essentials 09:41 Best Products for Nipple Healing 13:44 When to Use a Nipple Shield 21:07 Milk Collection & Breast Pads 27:24 Active Skin Repair 29:47 Electrolytes for Recovery 32:23 Milk Supply Support 34:29 Nursing Bras 35:09 Perineal Healing Essentials 39:48 Baby Essentials You Actually Need 41:15 Favorite Diapers & Wipes 44:35 Baby Clothes & Sleep Setup 48:29 Pacifiers & Baby Carriers 54:09 Postpartum Comfort & Recovery 56:44 Best Postpartum Supplements 58:37 Nourishing Herbs & Tonics 60:59 Stress & Mental Health Support 68:56 Nutrition & Meal Planning 74:16 What I Don't Buy Resources From This Episode: Get all of the supplies mentioned in this episode here: https://milkmedicine.com/postpartum-cart-links/ Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTube Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Instagram Healthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTok Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch Store Find more from Dr. Leah: Dr. Leah Gordon | Instagram Dr. Leah Gordon | Website Womanhood Wellness | Website Find more from Dr. Morgan: Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Instagram Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Website Use code HEALTHMOTHER and save 10% at Ninni Co. Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at Earthley Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at Redmond For 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHER Save $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER Use code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

  7. Jul 8

    The Hidden Signs of Endometriosis: Infertility, Painful Periods & What Actually Helps with Cindy Dabrowska | #172

    Endometriosis affects an estimated 1 in 10 women, yet many spend years searching for answers before receiving a diagnosis. In this episode, Leah sits down with endometriosis and fertility dietitian Cindy Dabrowska to unpack the often-overlooked signs of endometriosis, its connection to infertility, painful periods, digestive issues, hormone imbalances, and chronic inflammation. Together, they discuss why endometriosis is frequently missed, emerging diagnostic tools, the role of surgery, how pregnancy impacts symptoms, and the nutrition and lifestyle strategies that can help improve quality of life. Whether you've been diagnosed with endometriosis, suspect you may have it, or are navigating unexplained infertility, this conversation offers practical insights and hope. 00:00 Trailer & Introduction 01:52 Cindy's Endometriosis Journey 04:32 How Long Does It Take to Get Diagnosed? 05:32 Common & Unexpected Endometriosis Symptoms 07:39 Silent Endometriosis & Infertility 09:22 Subtle Signs Women Often Miss 11:45 Estrogen, Hormones & Endometriosis 16:42 How Endometriosis Is Diagnosed Today 20:35 Should You Start Treatment Before Diagnosis? 23:52 Birth Control, Surgery & Individualized Care 27:18 Can Diet & Lifestyle Reverse Endometriosis? 31:42 Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Endometriosis Symptoms 38:23 Is Endometriosis Similar to Cancer? 41:39 Cindy's 4-Part Endometriosis Healing Framework 44:06 Why Progesterone Matters 47:06 The Nervous System's Role in Endometriosis 49:26 Trauma, Stress & Chronic Pain 50:43 How to Work with Cindy 52:34 Final Thoughts Resources From This Episode: The Endo Thrive Masterclass - https://supportiveendord.ewebinar.com/webinar/the-endo-thrive-masterclass-23717Cindy's website: https://www.endometriosisdietitian.ca/Follow Cindy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/endo.fertility.dietitian/Subscribe to Cindy's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theendofertilityspaceDr. Leah's Womanhood Wellness Membership: https://drleahgordon.com/join Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTube Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Instagram Healthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTok Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch Store Find more from Dr. Leah: Dr. Leah Gordon | Instagram Dr. Leah Gordon | Website Womanhood Wellness | Website Find more from Dr. Morgan: Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Instagram Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Website Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at Earthley Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at Redmond For 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHER Save $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER Use code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

  8. Jul 1

    Hospital Transfer During Birth: Why It Happens, What to Expect & How to Stay Empowered | #171

    Planning a home birth or birth center birth? While most out-of-hospital births go as planned, hospital transfers are more common than many families realize. In this episode, we break down the most common reasons a transfer may happen before or during labor, including prolonged labor, maternal exhaustion, fetal positioning concerns, post-dates pregnancy, ruptured membranes, and more. We also discuss the emotional side of transfer, why it is not a failure, how to prepare mentally and practically for the possibility of a hospital birth, and ways to stay empowered if your birth plan changes. Whether you're planning an out-of-hospital birth or supporting someone who is, this conversation offers valuable education, reassurance, and practical tools for navigating unexpected changes during birth. 00:00 Trailer & Introduction 02:21 Why Hospital Transfer Isn't Failure 05:46 Letting Go of Guilt & Self-Blame 11:49 Home Birth Transfer Statistics 15:11 Most Common Reasons for Transfer 16:54 Reasons You May Transfer Before Labor 19:36 Going Past Your Due Date 21:41 Fear of Hospital Births & COVID Experiences 24:20 Why You Should Prepare for Transfer 26:31 Low Fluid, Blood Pressure & Other Risks 28:23 Breech Babies & Other Pregnancy Complications 33:16 Reasons for Transfer During Labor 33:45 Water Breaking Without Labor 35:40 Stalled Labor & Baby Positioning 37:35 Maternal Exhaustion & Pain Relief Requests 41:56 Medical Complications During Labor 43:20 Fetal Concerns & Meconium 44:44 How to Mentally Handle a Transfer 46:46 What Happens When You Arrive at the Hospital 53:56 Practical Tips & Your Hospital Backup Plan 55:59 Processing Your Birth Experience Afterwards 58:13 Homeopathic Support for Fear & Shock 58:46 Healing, Perspective & Birth Trauma 59:39 Final Thoughts Other Related Episodes: #32: The Vital Importance of Baby's Position During Birth with Ann Gilligan - https://open.spotify.com/episode/2IMXN6PmYDZBUcm78G3QeX?si=yNNZH5-sQDG3OaKeRlXD6A#40: The Wisdom in Waiting - https://open.spotify.com/episode/19MTWQjyEHl804m4UEcvT8?si=KuMgrblvSmy3HzQHKO9pGw#136: How The Hospital System Manipulates Moms with Dr. Stuart Fischbein MD - https://youtu.be/iKj69MpgmD0?si=ADEsze8RNtRCKkqO#168: Hospital Birth 101 Part 1 - https://youtu.be/8AohlC6Rc_E#169: Hospital Birth 101 Part 2 - https://youtu.be/Zracs5-cytE Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTube Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Instagram Healthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTok Healthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch Store Find more from Dr. Leah: Dr. Leah Gordon | Instagram Dr. Leah Gordon | Website Womanhood Wellness | Website Find more from Dr. Morgan: Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Instagram Dr. Morgan MacDermott | Website Use code HEALTHMOTHER and save 10% at Ninni Co. Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 10% at Earthley Use code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at Redmond For 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHER Save $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER Use code HAAM and save 10% at Fond

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4.9
out of 5
270 Ratings

About

Healthy As A Mother is a podcast for becoming and being a mother, hosted by Dr. Leah Gordon and Dr. Morgan MacDermott, two naturopathic doctors passionate about helping women navigate fertility, pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and motherhood through a natural health lens. Each week, we share conversations and education designed to help you become the healthiest mother possible through evidence-based and holistic approaches to wellness. From preconception and pregnancy preparation to postpartum recovery and motherhood, we cover the topics many women are not hearing elsewhere. Real conversations. Honest education. Support for every stage of motherhood.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Morgan MacDermott & Dr. Leah Gordon
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    178
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Healthy As A Mother
  • Show Website
    Healthy As A Mother

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