Behind the Latch

Margaret Salty
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  • EDUCATION
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The Behind the Latch with Margaret Salty is your essential companion for lifelong growth in the field of lactation consulting. Whether you're a student, a newly certified IBCLC, or an experienced consultant, this podcast is designed to support your ongoing journey. Each episode brings you expert interviews, real-world case studies, and the latest research updates—giving you practical insights you can apply directly to your work with breastfeeding families. Hosted by Margaret Salty, an experienced IBCLC, educator, and mentor, this podcast is here to guide you as you build your knowledge, sharpen your skills, and continue to evolve in your practice. The field of lactation is dynamic, and learning never stops. The IBCLC Mentor Podcast will help you stay inspired, stay informed, and stay connected to your purpose.

  1. 3D AGO

    From Wonder to Publication: Writing a Case Study Without a PhD with Indira Lopez-Bassols, IBCLC

    In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret interviews Indira Lopez-Bassols, IBCLC, educator, and PhD candidate based in London, about her journey from clinical lactation consultant to published author in the Journal of Human Lactation. Indira shares the story behind her case study, “Assisted Nursing: A Case Study of an Infant With a Complete Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate” and her recent reflection piece, “Three Seeds of Inspiration: How I Published My First Case Study Without a PhD” . Together, they unpack what holds IBCLCs back from publishing, how to move from clinical wonder to academic writing, and why research must become more accessible to practicing clinicians. What We Talk AboutIndira’s work in a specialist NHS breastfeeding clinic in the UKTeaching future lactation consultants and pursuing a PhD in breastfeeding educationThe three “seeds of inspiration” that moved her from reader to authorWhy attending a JHL writing session at ILCA changed everythingWhat an editor told her when she doubted whether her case was “spicy” enoughWhy you do not need a PhD to write and publish a case studyHow she structured her first case study by studying medical literature methodologyThe powerful cleft lip and palate case that became her first JHL publicationAssisted nursing using a nipple shield and NG tube to support direct breastfeeding Why cleft lip and palate infants are often assumed unable to breastfeed — and how this case challenged that assumptionThe emotional dimension of clinical practice: witnessing the “impossible”Why wonder is the essential ingredient for writingBurnout, mechanistic care, and losing the capacity to recognize aweMaking research accessible for non-academic IBCLCsHer creation of the international Research Hub through the Centre for Breastfeeding Education and Research The Three Seeds of InspirationIndira describes three pivotal moments: 1. Reading a Case Study A published case study on biological nurturing sparked the realization: “Maybe I could do this too.” 2. Attending a JHL Writing Session At ILCA, editors clearly explained manuscript types and encouraged non-academic clinicians to submit. When Indira expressed doubt, she was told simply: “Just write them.” 3. Witnessing the Impossible Supporting a mother determined to breastfeed her infant with a complete unilateral cleft lip and palate became the turning point. The dyad exclusively fed mother’s own milk, used no bottles, and later transitioned to direct breastfeeding without assistance after surgeries. That clinical experience — rooted in creativity,...

    31 min

  2. JAN 21

    Mentorship That Matters: Training the Next Generation of IBCLCs with Kristina Chamberlain, CNM, ARNP, IBCLC

    As more people pursue the IBCLC credential, mentorship has become one of the most critical—and misunderstood—components of lactation education. In this episode, Kristina and I take a close look at Pathway 2 and Pathway 3 mentorship, clarifying what mentors are actually responsible for and why mentorship must go beyond observation and paperwork. Kristina explains that effective mentorship is engaged, relational, and intentional. We discuss how mentors model professionalism, communication, boundaries, and ethical care—not just clinical skills. We also talk openly about the fears many IBCLCs have about becoming mentors, including concerns about readiness, time, liability, and “doing it right,” and why those fears shouldn’t stop experienced clinicians from stepping into mentorship roles. This conversation also highlights the structural supports built into Pathway 2 programs, the additional lift often required in Pathway 3 mentorship, and why access to high-quality mentorship remains a major barrier to growing and diversifying the IBCLC workforce. Throughout the episode, Kristina shares practical, experience-based strategies for both mentors and mentees—and a hopeful vision for how mentorship could be better supported and valued across the profession. 🔍 What We Talk AboutThe difference between mentoring vs. supervising clinical hoursWhat IBCLC mentors are truly responsible for in Pathway 2 and Pathway 3How students should be gradually and ethically integrated into hands-on careCommon gaps students face when transitioning from coursework to clinical practiceTools that support mentorship, including IBLCE outlines and LEAARC skill checklistsWhy learning from multiple mentors can strengthen clinical competenceLiability, affiliation agreements, and student protections in Pathway 2 programsThe professional and personal benefits of becoming a mentorCharging for mentorship: ethics, equity, and value exchangeWhy mentorship is part of our professional obligation as IBCLCsWhat Kristina hopes the future of lactation mentorship will look like 🧠 Key TakeawaysMentorship is an active teaching relationship, not passive oversight.Students need meaningful, hands-on experience—not observation alone.You do not need to be a “perfect” IBCLC to be an effective mentor.Mentorship strengthens clinical skills, confidence, and professional growth.Supporting mentors is essential to the future of the lactation profession. 👩‍🏫 Guesta href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristina-chamberlain-12020104/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    40 min

  3. JAN 14

    Body-Led Breastfeeding: Understanding Infant Suck Strength with Dr. Ellen Chetwynd

    In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret sits down with Ellen Chetwynd, IBCLC, PhD, and longtime Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Human Lactation, to explore a fundamentally different way of understanding breastfeeding challenges: body-led breastfeeding and the Infant Suck Strength Exam (ISSE). Dr. Chetwynd shares how years of clinical practice—and noticing what wasn’t explained by common diagnoses like thrush, Raynaud’s, or tongue-tie—led her to focus more closely on the infant’s body, neurology, and suck function. Together, Margaret and Ellen unpack how the ISSE helps clinicians move beyond appearance-based latch assessment to identify where suck strength is weak, how the tongue is functioning at the breast, and how infant compensation patterns often drive pain, inefficiency, and feeding struggles. This conversation bridges lactation science, cranial nerve physiology, and gentle body-based intervention, offering clinicians practical tools while challenging reductionist approaches to infant oral dysfunction. 🔍 What We Talk AboutHow Ellen entered the field of lactation through nursing and public healthWhy “bucket diagnoses” (yeast, Raynaud’s, tongue-tie) persist in lactation careWhat body-led breastfeeding means—and why the baby is often the primary driverThe clinical gap that inspired development of the Infant Suck Strength Exam (ISSE)Why digital oral exams miss what’s happening at the breastHow the ISSE is performed and what each pull-back reveals about suck strengthWhy the ISSE often functions as both assessment and treatmentInfant compensation patterns: jaw movement, lip use, body tension, and asymmetryThe role of cranial nerves and the cranial base in feeding functionWhy asymmetric latch and “guppy pose” can sometimes worsen dysfunctionGentle, parent-taught techniques to support infant regulation and suck strengthHow bottle-feeding strategies must align with breastfeeding goalsWhen to consider referral for craniosacral or body-based therapyWhy frenotomy alone may destabilize function if body tension isn’t addressedWhat future research is needed to validate and study the ISSE 🧠 Key Takeaways for CliniciansA visually “good” latch can hide significant internal dysfunction.Infant suck strength and tongue function must be assessed during active feeding.Many breastfeeding problems originate in infant neuromuscular coordination—not...

    46 min

  4. JAN 7

    Culturally Responsive Lactation Care with Jewish Families with Maya Lott, IBCLC

    In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret sits down with former student and practicing IBCLC Maya Lott to explore culturally responsive lactation care through the lens of working with Jewish families. Drawing from Maya’s clinical experience, academic background in Jewish philosophy and law, and her widely shared paper on counseling Jewish families, this conversation offers practical guidance for IBCLCs seeking to build trust, reduce friction, and deliver truly family-centered care. Maya shares how cultural norms, religious practices, and community structures can shape breastfeeding decisions—and how IBCLCs can approach these dynamics with curiosity rather than assumptions. From baby naming practices and modesty considerations to Shabbat, donor milk logistics, and the role of rabbis in healthcare decision-making, this episode provides concrete, respectful strategies clinicians can use immediately in practice. 🔍 What We Talk AboutMaya’s path to becoming an IBCLC through Pathway 2—and why it worked well for her as a parentWhy cultural humility matters in lactation care (and what it looks like in real visits)Breastfeeding as a cultural norm in many Jewish communities—and the pressures that can createBaby naming practices in observant Jewish families and why asking “Does your baby have a name yet?” mattersModesty, family roles, and how they can influence in-home lactation visitsPreparing infants for circumcision (bris) and how this can intersect with feeding supportShabbat, milk removal, and how IBCLCs can collaborate respectfully without practicing religious lawThe role of rabbis in health-related decisions—and why this can be empowering for familiesDonor milk, milk sharing, and kosher kitchen logisticsHow informal milk sharing functions in tight-knit communitiesParallels with other cultural and religious practices (including Muslim milk-kinship laws)Practical language IBCLCs can use to avoid alienation and build rapportWhy curiosity—not expertise in religious law—is the key clinical skill 🧠 Key Takeaways for CliniciansCultural competence starts at the doorstep—small language choices can shape the entire visit.You don’t need to be an expert in religious law to provide excellent care; awareness of considerations is enough.Asking open, respectful questions helps families integrate lactation care with lifelong values.Rabbis (and other faith leaders) often serve as supportive collaborators, not barriers, in healthcare decisions.span class="ql-ui"...

    41 min

  5. 12/17/2025

    Craniosacral Therapy and Infant Feeding with Meaghan Beames, RMT

    Lactation Exam Mastery Course! Master the IBCLC Exam Today! In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret interviews Meaghan Beames, Registered Massage Therapist, educator, and infant craniosacral therapy specialist based in Toronto. Meaghan shares her journey into craniosacral therapy following her own early breastfeeding struggles and explains how this gentle, hands-on modality can support infants experiencing feeding difficulties, poor latch, weak suck, reflux, tension patterns, and post-birth dysregulation. Together, Margaret and Meaghan unpack what craniosacral therapy actually is—and what it is not—moving beyond common misconceptions of it as “woo” or energy work. Meaghan offers a clear, physiology-based explanation grounded in fascia, cranial nerve function, nervous system regulation, and developmental biomechanics, helping clinicians understand how subtle tension patterns from gestation and birth can profoundly affect infant feeding and behavior. Throughout the conversation, they explore the clinical intersections between lactation care and bodywork, including the role of cranial nerves in suck function, the relationship between birth mechanics and oral dysfunction, and how craniosacral therapy may improve outcomes before and after frenotomy. Meaghan also provides practical language clinicians can use with families, guidance on practitioner training and safety, and insight into when referrals to other disciplines are appropriate. 🔍 What We Talk About How Meaghan entered infant craniosacral therapy after her own postpartum and breastfeeding experienceWhat craniosacral therapy is, how it works, and how it differs from chiropractic, osteopathy, and physical therapyFascia, tension patterns, and why the body must be viewed as a single integrated systemThe role of cranial nerves in infant feeding, suck strength, and oral coordinationHow gestational positioning, birth interventions, and delivery mechanics influence feeding outcomesWhy babies may feed well on one side but struggle on the otherWeak suck, poor oral sensation, and why some infants “can’t feel” the nippleThe limitations of appearance-based tongue-tie assessment and why function must come firstHow craniosacral therapy may improve frenotomy outcomes and reduce reattachment riskWhy cutting a dysfunctional tongue without addressing body tension can worsen feedingWhat a typical infant craniosacral session looks like, including assessment and treatment flowHow many sessions are typically needed and why “snapback” can occurHow craniosacral therapy supports nervous system regulation and reflex integrationWhat families may notice after treatment, including emotional release and behavior changesHow to talk with parents about craniosacral therapy in clear, non-alarming languageSafety considerations, training standards, and how to identify qualified practitionersWhat the current research does—and does not—tell us about craniosacral therapyOptions for families who cannot access or afford bodywork services 🧠 Key Takeaways for Clinicians Infant feeding difficulties are often rooted in whole-body tension patterns, not isolated oral anatomy.Cranial nerve dysfunction can impair suck, coordination, and sensation even when oral anatomy appears “normal.”Craniosacral therapy uses extremely light touch to identify and release fascial restrictions affecting function.Birth mechanics, including fetal position and obstetric interventions, can significantly impact feeding.Frenotomy without addressing underlying body tension...

    1h 1m

  6. 12/10/2025

    Why Early Colostrum Feeding Matters: Insights from Dr. Valérie Verhasselt

    Lactation Exam Mastery Course! Master the IBCLC Exam Today! In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret interviews Dr. Valérie Verhasselt, Professor of Immunology at the University of Western Australia and Head of the LRF Centre for Immunology and Breastfeeding. Dr. Verhasselt discusses her groundbreaking research on colostrum and food allergy prevention, focusing on her recent study demonstrating that partial colostrum feeding in the first 72 hours of life increases the risk of peanut allergy, while exclusive colostrum feeding appears profoundly protective. Her findings offer a powerful reframing of early postpartum lactation care: the risk may not stem solely from early cow’s milk exposure, but from reduced colostrum intake during the critical adaptation period when the newborn’s gut, immune system, and microbiota are being programmed. She explains how colostrum’s unique concentration of growth factors, IgA, vitamin A, and immune-modulating bioactive components help seal the gut, seed the microbiome, strengthen the skin barrier, and establish immune tolerance—laying the foundation for lifelong resilience. Dr. Verhasselt also shares insights from mouse models, discusses why donor mature milk is not a substitute for colostrum, and explores future directions including donor colostrum banks, colostrum-derived therapeutics, and new research on colostrum’s role in brain development. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40968490/ 🔍 What We Talk AboutHow Dr. Verhasselt entered lactation immunology after a “flash” inspiration during her early research career Why the transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life makes newborns uniquely vulnerable to allergy developmentHow colostrum supports gut closure, immune regulation, microbiota seeding, and skin barrier maturationWhy giving formula in the first days displaces colostrum intake rather than simply “topping up” Evidence showing a five-fold increase in peanut allergy among infants who received partial colostrum feedingThe striking finding that no infants who received ≥9 colostrum feeds developed peanut allergy by 12–18 monthsWhat early formula exposure does to the infant microbiome weeks and months laterHow parental allergy risk influences—but does not override—the protective effect of colostrumWhy exclusive breastfeeding data often overlook the critical first 72 hoursThe interplay between infant skin permeability, environmental exposure, detergent use, and allergy sensitizationWhat mouse models teach us about colostrum, mature milk, and developmental programmingWhy donor milk does not replicate colostrum’s early immunological functionThe concept of exclusive colostrum feeding as a distinct clinical and public health priorityFuture research avenues: colostrum-derived metabolites, donor colostrum banks, and early-life allergy prevention strategies 🧠 Key Takeaways for CliniciansColostrum’s immunological role is unique and time-sensitive—its composition cannot be replicated by mature milk, donor milk, or formula.Supplementation in the first days displaces colostrum volume, which may be the primary mechanism increasing allergy risk.As few as nine colostrum feeds in the first 72 hours appear profoundly protective against peanut allergy.Early formula exposure—even brief—can alter the infant gut...

    46 min

  7. 12/03/2025

    Inside the Lactating Breast: Ultrasound, Adiposity & Milk Production with Dr. Zoya Gridneva

    LACTATION EXAM MASTERY COURSE- Stop Guessing How to Study for the IBCLC Exam. In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret interviews Dr. Zoya Gridneva, Research Fellow with the Geddes–Hartmann Human Lactation Research Group. Zoya discusses her research exploring maternal adiposity, glandular tissue distribution, breast anatomy, milk production, puberty timing, parity, and breast development across lactations, using ultrasound imaging to examine the lactating breast in a way few studies have before Her findings help illuminate why some parents experience low supply despite doing “everything right,” and demonstrate how maternal factors—especially adiposity—may influence glandular tissue development, breast storage capacity, and milk removal efficiency. She also shares emerging tools that may help clinicians screen for lactation risk prenatally and why early identification may matter profoundly for parental experience and outcomes. 🔍 What We Talk AboutHow Zoya entered lactation research after her own breastfeeding experience Why adiposity is emerging as a central factor in milk production outcomes What ultrasound can tell us about ductal branching, glandular volume, and breast storage capacity Why more ductal development doesn’t always equal meaningful clinical increase in supply The relationship between puberty timing, parity, contraception, adiposity & milk output — what we know and what we don’t Why breast size ≠ glandular volume, and why small breasts may produce normal volumes The need for better screening for primary low supply and insufficient glandular tissue (IGT)A new 5-minute lactation risk screening tool used in Western Australia & its clinical promise Why single-feed weights are not enough — and why 24-hour production is more meaningful Where research must go next: larger samples, longitudinal data, and early-life glandular development 🧠 Key Takeaways for CliniciansAdiposity may influence breast growth, glandular proportion, and storage capacity, mediating supply outcomes.Ultrasound can visualize breast structure but requires skill, training, and access — not yet feasible for routine care.We may be able to identify high-risk parents prenatally using simple clinical screening tools, improving early intervention timing.Puberty, hormonal exposure, and menarche timing could play a significant role in final glandular development — a research area wide open for exploration.24-hour test-weighing is one of the most reliable ways to identify low production early, long before a “weight problem” appears.Clinically, risk awareness + early frequent milk removal support may be key for at-risk families. 👩‍🏫 GuestDr. Zoya Gridneva, PhD Maternal Factors, Breast Anatomy & Milk Production — An Ultrasound-Based Look Inside Lactation Research Fellow, Geddes–Hartmann Human Lactation Research Group University of Western Australia 📝 Connect with Margaret📬 Email: hello@margaretsalty.com 📸 Instagram: @margaretsalty 📘 Facebook: Margaret Salty 🎙️ Podcast: Behind the Latch Hosted by: Margaret...

    30 min

  8. 11/26/2025

    Why Outpatient IBCLC Care Matters: A Conversation with Dr. Anita Lugo

    In this episode of Behind the Latch, Margaret Salty interviews Dr. Anita Lugo, Pediatric Nurse Practitioner, IBCLC, researcher, and Assistant Professor at Moravian University in Pennsylvania. Dr. Lugo’s work focuses on one of the most critical—and often overlooked—components of breastfeeding success: outpatient lactation care after hospital discharge. Her recent review highlights the powerful impact of early, skilled IBCLC support on breastfeeding exclusivity and duration, and shines a light on the persistent gaps families face when navigating the postpartum period. Together, they explore the evidence behind outpatient IBCLC interventions, the systemic barriers that prevent equitable access to care, and the urgent need for stronger policies, better reimbursement models, and more consistent pathways for families to receive the level of support they truly need. Dr. Lugo also discusses how timing, frequency, and modality of lactation care—whether in-person, outpatient clinic, in-home, or telehealth—shape outcomes, and what future research should focus on to strengthen breastfeeding support across diverse communities. They discuss:Why many breastfeeding challenges intensify after families leave the hospitalEvidence showing that IBCLC support at 3 days and 2 weeks postpartum yields the best outcomesGaps in outpatient access, especially for families with Medicaid or grandfathered plansGeographic disparities in IBCLC availability and why they matterThe limitations of relying solely on prenatal classes or hospitalization supportThe role of telelactation and what parents find helpful—or challenging—about virtual consultsThe need for clearer distinctions between lactation credentials and their scopes of practiceHow policy, insurance reform, and better public awareness could improve breastfeeding equityFuture research needed on optimal visit numbers, timing, and support models 👩‍🏫 Guest InfoDr. Anita Lugo, DNP, PNP, IBCLC An integrative review of the impact of International Board Certifed Lactation Consultants in outpatient postnatal settings in the United States Assistant Professor, Moravian University Pediatric Nurse Practitioner & IBCLC Prenatal Educator, St. Luke’s University Hospital LinkedIn: Anita Lugo 📝 Connect with Margaret📬 Email: hello@margaretsalty.com 📸 Instagram: @margaretsalty 📘 Facebook: Margaret Salty 🎙️ Podcast: Behind the Latch Hosted by: Margaret Salty Music by: The Magnifiers – My Time Traveling Machine #BehindTheLatch #BreastfeedingSupport #LactationResearch #OutpatientLactation #IBCLC #PostpartumCare #BreastfeedingEquity #MaternalHealth #LactationPolicy #PublicHealthLactation #Telolactation #BreastfeedingOutcomes #InfantFeeding #NewParentSupport 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast app — and don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!

    40 min
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About

The Behind the Latch with Margaret Salty is your essential companion for lifelong growth in the field of lactation consulting. Whether you're a student, a newly certified IBCLC, or an experienced consultant, this podcast is designed to support your ongoing journey. Each episode brings you expert interviews, real-world case studies, and the latest research updates—giving you practical insights you can apply directly to your work with breastfeeding families. Hosted by Margaret Salty, an experienced IBCLC, educator, and mentor, this podcast is here to guide you as you build your knowledge, sharpen your skills, and continue to evolve in your practice. The field of lactation is dynamic, and learning never stops. The IBCLC Mentor Podcast will help you stay inspired, stay informed, and stay connected to your purpose.

Information

  • Creator
    Margaret Salty
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    112
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Margaret Salty
  • Show Website
    Behind the Latch

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