Getting Started with Baby

The Starter Set
  • 5.0 (2)
  • PARENTING

Getting Started with Baby – the podcast that brings you practical tips, loved products, and lived experience from parents who've been there. Whether you're expecting or deep into parenting, you're probably drowning in advice and wondering what you actually need. Sometimes, there's nothing better than hearing from other parents who've lived through it. In each episode, host, Jane Dashevsky, herself a mom of two on the other side of "two under two," sits down with parents across the parenting spectrum from OBs to sleep specialists, researchers and moms. Together, they cut through the noise and share what actually worked (and what didn't) and why. No judgment, no perfect parenting formulas – just genuine experiences from real parents helping other parents through the beautiful mess of raising tiny humans. Getting Started with Baby is brought to you by TheStarterSet.com, an upcoming service designed to help parents find just the right things at the right time, personalized for their families. Have baby questions you want answered? Let us know — Info@TheStarterSet.com. Stay up to date on new episodes posted weekly by following the podcast. Get more insight by signing up for our newsletter on www.TheStarterSet.com or following us on Instagram @TheStarterSet_Baby. Note: Information in the podcast is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. We encourage you to independently evaluate any content and consult with appropriate professionals as needed for your specific circumstances.

  1. FEB 3

    Navigating Breastfeeding: Myths, Challenges & Expert Tips with Lactation Consultant Jaimie Zaki

    Breastfeeding doesn't always come naturally—and that's okay. If you're pregnant and anxious about nursing, currently struggling with breastfeeding pain or latch issues, or carrying guilt about your feeding journey, this episode is for you. We're joined by Jaimie Zaki, certified lactation consultant, nurse, and host of Breastfeeding with Confidence. Jaimie shares honest insights from breastfeeding five kids herself, debunks common breastfeeding myths, and offers practical tips to help you have a positive experience—even when it's not perfect. What we cover: Why breastfeeding is often harder than expected (and why that's not your fault) Common breastfeeding challenges vs. true milk supply issues Why breastfeeding pain is common but NOT normal—and what to do about it Red flags that mean your baby might not be getting enough milk How fear, guilt, and bad advice impact your feeding decisions What good lactation support actually looks like Who this episode is for: Expecting moms who want to feel prepared, new moms struggling with breastfeeding, or anyone feeling guilty or alone in their feeding journey. You'll walk away feeling supported, informed, and empowered—whatever your feeding path looks like. To learn more about Jaimie and her work, visit LittleBearLactation.com or follow her on Instagram @littlebearlactation. You can also check out her podcast Breastfeeding With Confidence for deeper dives into infant feeding topics. For more from The Starter Set, visit www.TheStarterSet.com or follow us on Instagram @thestarterset_baby. Have questions or episode requests? Contact us at info@thestarterset.com. Note: Information in this episode is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute medical or professional advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for guidance specific to your situation.

    32 min

  2. JAN 16

    White Noise, Brown Noise and Surviving Getting Baby to Sleep with Brandon Reed, Founder, Dwellspring.io

    If you’re already a parent—or expecting a baby—you know how precious every minute of sleep is. In this episode, we’re talking with Brandon Reed, father of three and founder of Dwellspring.io, about what actually helps babies sleep—and how parents can survive the early years together. What began as a desperate attempt to soothe his own baby led Brandon to experiment with different sleep sounds, from white noise to brown and green noise, and even mixes designed to mimic what babies hear in the womb. That experimentation eventually grew into a comprehensive library of sleep sounds used by families around the world. Drawing on both his experience as a parent and his work building sleep tools, Brandon shares what he’s learned about helping babies sleep longer and deeper—and what it’s really like parenting three young kids. Throughout the conversation, we also talk about the less-discussed side of baby sleep: how chronic sleep deprivation can strain even strong relationships, why prioritizing your partnership matters during the early years, and how couples can stay connected when everyone is exhausted. In this episode, you’ll learn: What white noise, brown noise, and other “noise colors” are—and how they affect baby sleep Why sleep sounds can help babies fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer How to experiment with different sounds to find what works best for your baby What parenting three young kids really looks like day to day How sleep deprivation can impact your relationship with your partner Why staying connected as a couple matters so much in the early years of parenthood If you’re navigating broken nights, trying to figure out which sleep tools are worth it, or feeling the strain that exhaustion can put on your relationship, this episode offers both practical tips and reassurance that what you’re experiencing is normal. To learn more about Brandon and his work, visit Dwellspring.io. For more from The Starter Set, visit www.TheStarterSet.com or follow us on Instagram @thestarterset_baby. Have questions or episode requests? Contact us at info@thestarterset.com. Note: Information in this episode is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute medical, psychological, or professional advice. We encourage listeners to evaluate the content independently and consult appropriate professionals for their specific circumstances.

    27 min

  3. 12/19/2025

    Should I Call the Pediatrician? Dr. Michelle Wagner Talks Baby Rashes, Fevers & Daycare Illness

    This week we're getting a pediatrician's view on parents' most common baby questions. When should you actually worry about a fever? Is your baby eating enough? And, of course, what's normal when it comes to baby poop? Dr. Michelle Wagner of Tuckahoe Pediatrics, a pediatrician and mom of three, helps us dig into everything from understanding why doctors take fevers so seriously in those first few months to navigating feeding worries and surviving the nonstop cycle of daycare illness. Throughout the conversation, she draws on both her medical training and lived experience to share some of the tools parents have to keep their kids healthy. And something surprising that might not be surprising at all – the love and safety you create at home can play a foundational role in your child's long-term health. In this episode, you'll learn: When doctors typically consider a fever as a true emergency—and why the rules change after the first few months What’s the range of normal when it comes to baby poop (even when it seems surprising) How to know when to call your pediatrician—hint: if you have a question don't hesitate Her perspective on feeding concerns, including breastfeeding and supplementation What parents can typically expect during the first year of daycare when it comes to illness Some simple, effective ways to comfort a sick baby at home Wherever you are in your parenting journey, you'll get the doctor's perspective on some of the burning baby health questions you'll likely be tackling in the first year To learn more about Dr. Wagner, follow her on Instagram @tuckahoepediatrics. For more on The Starter Set visit www.TheStarterSet.com or follow us on Instagram @thestarterset_baby. Have questions or episode requests, contact us at info@thestarterset.com Note: Information in this episode is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. Information in the podcast does not constitute personal professional advice. We encourage you to independently evaluate any content and consult with appropriate professionals as needed for your specific circumstances.

    31 min

  4. 12/05/2025

    Anxiety, Identity and What's "Normal" in Early Motherhood with Perinatal Mental Health Specialist Jen Mendoza

    You've probably heard of postpartum depression—or maybe the baby blues—but maternal mental health is so much more complex than that. From postpartum anxiety to intrusive thoughts to navigating the massive identity shift that comes with becoming a parent, we’re diving into it all with Jen Mendoza, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in pregnancy, postpartum, and perinatal mental health. As a mom of three little ones herself, Jen has lived these challenges firsthand and now supports other families through their own journeys. In this conversation, she breaks down what new parents and their partners should be looking out for, how to build the right support system after birth, and why emotional wellness deserves just as much attention as physical recovery. In this episode, you'll learn: How to tell the difference between baby blues, postpartum depression, and postpartum anxiety What intrusive thoughts really are—and why they’re more common than you think How identity shifts show up in early motherhood (and how to cope) Warning signs partners should be aware of and how to support each other What a healthy postpartum support plan actually looks like Where to turn when you feel overwhelmed or unsure what’s “normal” Wherever you are in your parenting journey, this episode will give you practical insight into what postpartum mental health really looks like—and what support can make a meaningful difference. To get in touch with Jen, visit motherthrivetherapy.com or follow her on Instagram @motherthrivetherapy. For more on the Starter Set visit www.TheStarterSet.com or follow us on Instagram @thestarterset_baby. Have questions or episode requests, contact us at info@thestarterset.com Note: Information in this episode is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. Information in the podcast does not constitute personal professional advice. We encourage you to independently evaluate any content and consult with appropriate professionals as needed for your specific circumstances.

    33 min

  5. 11/11/2025

    Stylist edit: what you really need in your closet from pregnancy to postpartum

    Ever had that feeling of a closet full of clothes but nothing to wear? It's all too common when you're facing pregnancy and postpartum. In this episode, we talk with stylist and new mom, Julia Nauer of Sort and Style Co about how to dress the bump and beyond—and what it means to keep your clothing simple, functional, stylish, but also true to you. We'll cover how to solve some of pregnancy’s unique styling pain points, the wardrobe questions to ask yourself, and how to punch up basics to feel stylish no matter what life phase you're in. In this episode, you'll learn: How to redefine your style during pregnancy and postpartum Smart ways to make your wardrobe work for every phase How to simplify your closet without sacrificing style The key questions to ask when editing your wardrobe Tips for elevating your basics with minimal effort How to stay true to your personal style through big life transitions Whether you're dressing the bump, newly postpartum, or somewhere in between, this episode will help you feel confident, comfortable, and stylish every step of the way. For more from Julia, visit www.SortandStyleCo.com or follow on Instagram @sortandstyleco. For more on The Starter Set, visit www.TheStarterSet.com or follow us on Instagram @thestarterset_baby. Have questions or episode requests? Contact us at info@thestarterset.com. Note: Information in this episode is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute personal professional advice. Please consult qualified professionals for guidance specific to your situation.

    28 min

  6. 10/14/2025

    What a Doula Wishes Every Parent Knew About Planning for Baby

    You've gotten the happy news—you're expecting! Now what? Beyond planning the nursery and registering for gear, what should you really be preparing for? In this episode, host Jane Dashevsky sits down with Deborah Koumoutsidis, a doula and certified massage therapist who's been part of over 1,000 births. Deborah shares the insider knowledge she wishes every expecting parent had—from creating a crisis plan for labor to building a postpartum support team that actually works. In this episode, you'll learn: How to advocate for the birth experience you want Two simple questions to ask during any birth intervention How to protect your relationship with your birth partner in the delivery room The postpartum gap no one talks about (and how to prepare) What to ask during a doula meet-and-greet How to build your village when you're far from family Whether you're considering hiring a doula or just want to feel more prepared for birth and beyond, this conversation is packed with practical wisdom from someone who's basically seen it all. For more information about Deborah's work, visit www.PelvicLove.com or follow on Instagram @deborahthedoula. For more on the Starter Set visit www.TheStarterSet.com or follow us on Instagram @thestarterset_baby. Have questions or episode requests, contact us at info@thestarterset.com Note: Information in this episode is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. Information in the podcast does not constitute personal professional advice. We encourage you to independently evaluate any content and consult with appropriate professionals as needed for your specific circumstances.

    39 min

  7. 09/25/2025

    Style tips and tricks for looking put together from pregnancy to postpartum

    Pregnant or recently had a baby and feeling like your wardrobe doesn't match your life anymore? You're not alone. This week we're chatting with stylist and mom of three Megan Timmons about how to feel confident and put-together during pregnancy and beyond. Whether you're struggling with body changes, need help transitioning from going-out clothes to mom life, or just want to look less like you live in leggings, Megan has you covered. We're talking family photo styling secrets (spoiler: mom goes first!), building a capsule wardrobe that actually works, and why a good blazer can save any outfit. Plus, she spills on rental services for special occasions, the best comfortable sneakers that still look cute, and her favorite busy mom hack: baseball caps. Because when mom feels confident and put-together, it carries over to the whole family. For more style guidance, find Megan on www.StyledbyMegT.com or follow on instagram @styledbymegt. For more on the Starter Set visit www.TheStarterSet.com or follow us on instagram @thestarterset_baby. Have questions or episode requests, contact us at info@thestarterset.com Note: Information in this episode is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. Information in the podcast does not constitute personal professional advice. We encourage you to independently evaluate any content and consult with appropriate professionals as needed for your specific circumstances.

    27 min

  8. 09/11/2025

    A pediatric cardiologist’s guide to baby heart screenings and sleep secrets: parenting takeaways with Dr. Sonny Duong

    Whether you've been referred for a fetal heart screening or not, hearing the title pediatric cardiologist might make you a bit nervous. Not to worry, though. In this episode, pediatric cardiologist and father of two, Dr. Sonny Duong, takes us through what parents really need to know about heart screenings, from why you might get a fetal echocardiogram (hint: it's usually just precautionary) to what actually happens if something is found. But this conversation goes beyond medical facts—Dr. Duong shares the parenting wisdom he's gleaned from years in pediatrics, including why the strict routines that help nurses manage five babies at once can transform your sleep struggles at home. Note: Information in this episode is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. Information in the podcast does not constitute personal professional advice. We encourage you to independently evaluate any content and consult with appropriate professionals as needed for your specific circumstances.

    23 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Getting Started with Baby – the podcast that brings you practical tips, loved products, and lived experience from parents who've been there. Whether you're expecting or deep into parenting, you're probably drowning in advice and wondering what you actually need. Sometimes, there's nothing better than hearing from other parents who've lived through it. In each episode, host, Jane Dashevsky, herself a mom of two on the other side of "two under two," sits down with parents across the parenting spectrum from OBs to sleep specialists, researchers and moms. Together, they cut through the noise and share what actually worked (and what didn't) and why. No judgment, no perfect parenting formulas – just genuine experiences from real parents helping other parents through the beautiful mess of raising tiny humans. Getting Started with Baby is brought to you by TheStarterSet.com, an upcoming service designed to help parents find just the right things at the right time, personalized for their families. Have baby questions you want answered? Let us know — Info@TheStarterSet.com. Stay up to date on new episodes posted weekly by following the podcast. Get more insight by signing up for our newsletter on www.TheStarterSet.com or following us on Instagram @TheStarterSet_Baby. Note: Information in the podcast is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. We encourage you to independently evaluate any content and consult with appropriate professionals as needed for your specific circumstances.

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