The Postpartum Empowerment Podcast

Dr. Michela Nelson
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  • HEALTH & FITNESS
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Welcome to The Postpartum Empowerment Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Michela Nelson, a naturopathic doctor focusing on perinatal health, this podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges and joys of postpartum life. We dive into real stories, expert advice, and actionable tips on mental health, physical recovery, breastfeeding, and more. Whether you're a new mom or a seasoned parent, we’re here to support you in thriving—not just surviving.

Episodes

  1. 01/13/2025

    From Exhaustion to Renewal: CBT Techniques for Better Sleep with Dr. Keltie Pratt

    In this episode, we welcome Dr. Keltie Pratt, a registered psychologist renowned for her compassionate approach to mental wellness, to discuss effective strategies for improving sleep during the postpartum period. Dr. Pratt shares her expertise on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) for insomnia, offering practical tips and insights that can help mamas navigate sleepless nights, emotional ups and downs, and the overall impact of sleep on mental health. Key Takeaways: - Understanding CBT for Sleep: Dr. Pratt explains what cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) entails, emphasizing its evidence-based approach to treating chronic sleep issues. - Impact of Sleep on Mental Wellness: The discussion highlights how inadequate sleep affects postpartum mental health, including risks for anxiety and depression. - Practical CBT-I Strategies: Listeners learn about key components of CBT-I such as cognitive restructuring, sleep restriction, stimulus control, relaxation techniques, and behavioural activation. - Importance of Professional Guidance: Insights on finding the right mental health professional and the value of personalized therapy for effective long-term sleep improvement. - Empowerment Through Knowledge: The conversation empowers moms with knowledge about managing sleep challenges, improving overall well-being, and the benefits of seeking help. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Keltie Pratt’s Website: For more information on therapy and CBT-I services. https://drkp.ca/  About Dr. Keltie Pratt: Dr. Keltie Pratt is a registered psychologist specializing in cognitive behavioural approaches for insomnia and mental wellness. Known for creating a safe, supportive environment in her practice, Dr. Pratt empowers clients to navigate their challenges, enhance their sleep quality, and improve their overall well-being. Connect: Website: www.empowermedicalgroup.ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.michelanelson.nd

    44 min

  2. 12/11/2024

    PEP Talk: Navigating Postpartum with Empowerment & Resilience with Penny Slinger

    In this episode, we welcome Penny Solinger, a registered social worker specializing in maternal mental health, back to discuss the profound transitions of motherhood. From changes in self-identity to navigating the demands of new parenthood, Penny shares insights and personal stories to help moms find their way through this transformative time.  Key Takeaways The Reality of Postpartum Transitions: Understanding the significant physical and emotional changes that come with welcoming a newborn. Impact on Mental Health: How experiencing multiple losses simultaneously can contribute to postpartum depression and anxiety. Loss of Identity and Routine: Exploring how motherhood can alter personal and professional identities, leading to feelings of loss and exhaustion. Strained Friendships and Social Connections: The challenges of maintaining pre-motherhood friendships and the shift towards virtual or less frequent interactions. Societal Pressures on Moms: Recognizing and challenging societal expectations that can add to the stress of new motherhood. Setting Boundaries: Practical tips on establishing boundaries with family and friends to prioritize your well-being. Finding the Right Mental Health Professional: Guidance on selecting a therapist who understands and supports your unique postpartum needs. Coping Strategies and Resilience: Techniques for rebuilding emotional connections and maintaining mental resilience during the postpartum period. Resources Mentioned Gottman Card Decks App: A tool for enhancing emotional communication in relationships. Brené Brown's Work on Human Connection: Insights on vulnerability and emotional bonds for mental health. Postpartum Support Group Enrollment: If you're interested in joining our in-person postpartum support group starting in the New Year or working with Penny Solinger, check out the links in the show notes for more details. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction 02:15 - Discussion on Postpartum Losses 10:45 - Impact of Losses on Mental Health 18:30 - Personal Experiences with Postpartum Challenges 28:00 - Strategies for Maintaining Mental Health 35:50 - Finding the Right Mental Health Professional 45:20 - Coping Mechanisms and Building Resilience 55:10 - Importance of Community and Support Systems 1:05:30 - Closing Thoughts and Final Advice 1:10:00 - Outro and Call to Action About Our Guest: Penny Solinger, Registered Social Worker Penny Solinger is a dedicated social worker with extensive experience in supporting women and caregivers through the challenges of motherhood. Her empathetic approach and deep understanding of postpartum mental health make her an invaluable resource for anyone navigating the emotional complexities of bringing a new life into the world. Penny is passionate about fostering resilience and empowering moms to rebuild their sense of self and community. Connect With Us Website: www.empowermedicalgroup.ca Skool Community You’ve got this, Mama! Join our supportive community on Skool and continue the conversation. Share your stories, ask questions, and connect with other empowered moms navigating the postpartum journey together.

    23 min

  3. 11/25/2024

    Optimizing Postpartum Fitness: Safe Exercise and Hydration with Dr. Cayla

    In this insightful episode of the Postpartum Empowerment Podcast, host Dr. Michela Nelson welcomes Dr. Cayla Bronicheski, a dedicated naturopathic doctor from Sudbury, to discuss the critical aspects of postpartum fitness and hydration.  Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on: Safe Postpartum Exercise: Understanding when and how to resume physical activity after childbirth, tailored to individual fitness levels and birth experiences. Hydration and Electrolytes: The role of electrolytes in muscle recovery and overall postpartum health, debunking common myths about exercise and milk supply. Special Considerations for C-Section Moms: Key signs of intolerance and the importance of pelvic floor therapy in postpartum recovery. Balancing Self-Care and Motherhood: Practical tips for integrating gentle movements and adequate rest to support healing and prevent burnout. Community and Support Systems: The significance of building a strong support network and accessing specialized care for optimal postpartum wellness. Whether you're an athlete looking to return to your training routine or a new mom seeking to incorporate gentle exercise into your daily life, this episode offers expert advice to help you thrive physically and emotionally during the postpartum period. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Cayla Bronicheski: Naturopathic Doctor specializing in perinatal health, cardiovascular and metabolic health, and postpartum wellness in Sudbury Ontario. Website: drcayla.com Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcayla.nd/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drcayla/ Connect with Us: Website: https://empowermedicalgroup.ca/services/ Instagram: @dr.michelanelson.nd Join Our Community on Skool:  www.skool.com/postpartum-empowerment-society

    31 min

  4. 11/18/2024

    Unlocking Tongue Ties: Dr. Madison Baile’s Approach to Family Chiropractic Care

    Dr. Michela Nelson welcomes Dr. Madison Baile to discuss the essential role of chiropractic care in supporting postpartum moms and their babies. Dr. Baile shares her personal journey, highlights common postpartum and infant challenges, and explains how chiropractic techniques can improve feeding and overall family wellness. Key Takeaways: Importance of ongoing care for moms beyond the immediate postpartum period. Early intervention for conditions like torticollis and flat head syndrome to ensure proper development. How chiropractic care addresses tongue ties and latch issues to enhance breastfeeding. Differences between scissor and laser tongue tie releases and their benefits. Combining body work with chiropractic adjustments for optimal results for both mom and baby. Resources Mentioned: Dr. Madison Baile’s Website: ⁠⁠DrMadisonBaile.ca⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠@DrMadisonBaile⁠⁠ Chiropractic Techniques: Webster Technique for Pregnancy Body Work for Babies We hope this episode leaves you feeling supported and empowered on your journey. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join our community on ⁠Skool⁠ for more resources and a supportive network of like-minded moms. Until next time, take care, Mama—you’ve got this!

    23 min

  5. 11/11/2024

    Easing Postpartum Pain: Finding Natural Relief with Robyn

    In this insightful episode, we're joined by Robyn from Bump Prenatal & Postpartum Wellness. Robyn is a skilled massage therapist and manual osteopathic therapist dedicated to helping moms navigate the physical challenges of pregnancy and postpartum. As a mom herself, Robin understands firsthand the aches, pains, and complexities that can come with this stage of life. Join us as she shares her knowledge on natural methods to alleviate discomfort and promote healing in the postpartum journey. Key Questions Answered in This Episode: When is it safe to get a massage after a C-section? What are the benefits of massage and osteopathic treatments for postpartum recovery? How can you reduce common postpartum pains like shoulder, neck, and back tension? Is there a way to help with C-section scar healing naturally? and much, much MORE! Links Mentioned in the Episode: ⁠Bump Prenatal & Postpartum Wellness⁠ – Book an appointment or learn more about Robyn's services. ⁠Postpartum Empowerment Society⁠ – Join our free community of empowered moms! Get access to exclusive resources, guides, and more. Join Our Community! ✨If you enjoyed this episode and are looking for a supportive space to continue your postpartum journey, join our free community, the ⁠Postpartum Empowerment Society⁠! Here, you'll gain access to invaluable resources, a community of like-minded moms, and ongoing support to help you thrive after birth. Don’t miss out—join us today and download helpful guides like our "Sample Boundary Setting Scripts for New Moms" and other exclusive content available only in our community.

    14 min

  6. 11/04/2024

    Transitioning to Motherhood: Embracing Your New Normal with Penny

    In this episode, we welcome Penny Solinger, a registered social worker specializing in maternal mental health, back to discuss the profound transitions of motherhood. From changes in self-identity to navigating the demands of new parenthood, Penny shares insights and personal stories to help moms find their way through this transformative time. Key Takeaways: - The reality of postpartum transitions and their impact on physical and emotional well-being - How prioritizing a newborn’s needs can affect a mom’s health - Societal pressures on moms and how to challenge these narratives - Tips on setting boundaries with family and friends to support your well-being Resources Mentioned: - Book:When the Body Says No by Gabor Maté - If you're interested in working with Penny Solinger or joining our in-person postpartum support group starting this winter, check out the links in the show notes for more details. We hope this episode leaves you feeling supported and empowered on your journey. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and join our Postpartum Empowerment Society on Skool for more resources and a community of like-minded moms. Until next time, take care, Mama—you’ve got this!

    39 min

  7. 10/28/2024

    Setting Boundaries with Visitors Post-Baby

    In today’s episode, Dr. Michela Nelson shares actionable strategies for setting boundaries with visitors after welcoming your new baby. This episode is all about creating a peaceful space for healing, bonding, and adjusting to life as a new parent, without feeling overwhelmed by frequent or lengthy visits. Learn how to communicate your needs respectfully, encourage visitors to lend a hand, and build a supportive environment for you and your little one. Key Takeaways: Tips for setting boundaries with visitors in a polite, clear manner Ideas for managing visitor hours and keeping visits short Suggestions for using group messaging or apps like Family Album to keep loved ones connected without constant in-person visits Encouragement to trust your instincts and prioritize your wellbeing and that of your baby Downloadable Resource: To help make boundary-setting a bit easier, Dr. Michela has created the Boundary Setting Scripts for New Moms Guide. This guide offers friendly, ready-to-use scripts to communicate your needs confidently and politely. Download it through our community! Join the Community: By joining The Postpartum Empowerment Society you’ll access this guide and many other valuable resources tailored to new moms. Let’s create a community that supports, informs, and empowers you at every step. Additional Links: Postpartum Empowerment Society – https://www.skool.com/postpartum-empowerment-society  FamilyAlbum: https://family-album.onelink.me/cf5z/drl4blrn  Tune in, feel supported, and find the right balance to enjoy this beautiful new chapter with confidence.

    8 min

  8. 10/21/2024

    Motherhood Unfiltered: Challenging Unrealistic Expectations with Penny Solinger

    In this episode of The Postpartum Empowerment Podcast, Dr. Michela Nelson explores the contrast between expectations and the reality of motherhood. Together with guest Penny Solinger, a registered social worker specializing in maternal mental health, they dive into how societal messages can impact mothers' mental health and self-worth. Key Takeaways: The Power of Assumptions: Many moms enter parenthood with unrealistic expectations, which can lead to feelings of guilt or disappointment. Penny shares her journey and sheds light on the pressures created by societal norms. Breaking the Myths: They discuss common misconceptions, like "Good mothers don’t need breaks" and "Breastfeeding is instinctual," which can affect a mother’s self-esteem. The Role of Partners: The discussion also addresses the often-overlooked mental health of non-birthing partners, and how societal expectations shape their experiences. Building a Supportive Village: Dr. Nelson and Penny highlight the importance of support networks for emotional and physical recovery. Mentioned in this Episode: Connect with Penny Solinger, specializing in maternal mental health, at ⁠Emmaus Psychology⁠. Apply for the Calgary In-Person Postpartum Support Group, starting November/December 2024. Join the waitlist ⁠here⁠. Book Recommendation: When the Body Says No by Gabor Maté. Join the ⁠Postpartum Empowerment Society⁠ for free resources and a supportive community for moms. If this episode resonated with you, subscribe and leave a review! Follow us for more postpartum insights and support. Until next time, take care of yourself, Mama. You’ve got this!

    30 min

  9. 10/14/2024

    Ironing Out Postpartum Fatigue: The Missing Link in Recovery

    This episode dives into postpartum anemia and why it’s essential to go beyond just checking ferritin levels. Dr. Michela explains how fatigue, mood changes, and bonding with your baby can all be impacted by iron deficiency and why comprehensive follow-up care after pregnancy is so important. Key Takeaways: Beyond Ferritin: Why ferritin alone might not give a complete picture of iron levels due to inflammation and other factors. Common Symptoms of Anemia: Fatigue, dizziness, shortness of breath, and more could signal iron deficiency, not just lack of sleep. Emotional Impact: Anemia can increase the risk of postpartum depression and impact bonding with your baby. Practical Tips: Easy ways to include more iron-rich foods in your diet to support recovery. Exclusive Member Content: Join The Postpartum Empowerment Society, our FREE private Skool community, for non-public podcast episodes, resources, and a supportive community. Get Involved: If you’re struggling with postpartum fatigue or have concerns about your iron status, schedule a 1:1 appointment with Dr. Michela. Together, you’ll ensure nothing is overlooked in your postpartum journey. Upcoming Event: Don’t miss the FREE HeartStrong Cardio Summit from October 21-26, 2024. Topics will include PCOS and heart health, postpartum cardiovascular risks, and much more. Sign up to empower your heart health today!

    8 min

  10. 10/07/2024

    It Takes a Village: Starting Our Postpartum Journey Together

    Episode Summary: In this very first episode of The Postpartum Empowerment Podcast, I share my personal journey into motherhood and why I’m so passionate about postpartum care. We’ll talk about the importance of having a strong support system and why it really does take a village to thrive in the postpartum period. From my own experiences with both smooth and challenging postpartum recoveries, to why I’m building this podcast and community, this episode sets the foundation for what’s to come. Whether you're a first-time mom, an experienced mom, or a mom-to-be, this podcast is here to help you navigate your postpartum journey and thrive! Key Takeaways: My personal postpartum journey and why I’m so passionate about supporting moms. The role of support systems and why it’s important to lean on your village. Insights into the postpartum experience, including both physical and emotional recovery. What to expect from future episodes of The Postpartum Empowerment Podcast. Resources Mentioned: Join the Postpartum Empowerment Society – a free community for moms to connect, share, and support one another. Get future access to free handouts, downloads, exclusive community-only podcast episodes, and upcoming virtual group programs, as well as learn more about postpartum care and how to thrive through this special time. Let’s Stay Connected: Join the Postpartum Empowerment Society for free. Be sure to subscribe to the podcast so you never miss an episode! If you found this episode helpful, please share it with another mom who might benefit, and leave a review—it really helps us reach more moms like you. Connect With Me: Instagram: @dr.michelanelson.nd Website: www.empowermedicalgroup.ca Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Please consult with your healthcare provider for any personal health concerns or medical questions.

    8 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Welcome to The Postpartum Empowerment Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Michela Nelson, a naturopathic doctor focusing on perinatal health, this podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges and joys of postpartum life. We dive into real stories, expert advice, and actionable tips on mental health, physical recovery, breastfeeding, and more. Whether you're a new mom or a seasoned parent, we’re here to support you in thriving—not just surviving.

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