Healthy As A Mother

Dr. Morgan MacDermott & Dr. Leah Gordon
  • 4.9 (267)
  • 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. 1d ago

    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

  2. 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/

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 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

  7. Jun 24

    Low Progesterone & Fertility: Luteal Phase Defects, Miscarriage Risk + Natural Hormone Support with Sophia Pavia | #170

    Progesterone is one of the most important hormones for fertility, healthy ovulation, and sustaining early pregnancy, yet so many women are never taught how it actually works. In this episode, Dr. Leah and Dr. Morgan sit down with fertility nutritionist Sophia Pavia to break down the truth about low progesterone, luteal phase defects, ovulation quality, and why so many women today are struggling with hormone imbalances, infertility, and pregnancy loss. We unpack how progesterone is made, why ovulation is essential for healthy hormone balance, what “unopposed estrogen” really means, and the signs your luteal phase may need support. Sophia also explains why conventional medicine can be hesitant about progesterone supplementation, when it may be appropriate, and how nutrition, stress, blood sugar balance, and cycle tracking can help support stronger ovulation and healthier progesterone production naturally. If you’re trying to conceive, navigating recurrent loss, or simply want to better understand your hormones, this episode is packed with practical education and empowering insight. 00:00 Intro + Sophia Returns To The Podcast 01:24 Why Low Progesterone Matters for Fertility 02:34 Why So Many Women Struggle with Progesterone Today 13:17 How PCOS, Endometriosis & Hypothalamic Amenorrhea Affect Progesterone 15:49 How Progesterone Is Actually Made in the Body 19:59 Estrogen vs Progesterone: What Balance Really Means 25:49 Can You Have a Weak Ovulation? 33:40 Egg Quality vs Progesterone: Which Comes First? 35:24 Why Doctors Often Hesitate to Prescribe Progesterone 41:59 When Progesterone Supplementation May Help 46:16 Signs Your Luteal Phase Needs Support 47:56 How to Support Progesterone Naturally 50:42 Where to Find Sophia + Final Encouragement Resources From This Episode: Sophia's Website - https://www.ttcnutritionist.com/Follow Sophia on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ttc.nutritionist Other Related Episodes: Episode #31: The Power of Progesterone - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-as-a-mother/id1663942916?i=1000625679300Episode #108: Surviving a Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancy with Sophia Pavia - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/healthy-as-a-mother/id1663942916?i=1000703730128 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. Jun 17

    Home Birth 101, Part 2: Midwives, Transfers, Cost, Prep + What Actually Happens During a Home Birth | #169

    What actually happens during a home birth? In part two of this Home Birth 101 conversation, Dr. Morgan walks through what makes home birth safe, the role of midwives, what labor looks like at home, when transfers happen, newborn care, cost considerations, and how to prepare physically and mentally. If you’ve ever wondered what home birth looks like behind the scenes, or what happens if things don’t go according to plan, this episode gives you the practical breakdown. 00:00 Trailer + Introduction 01:26 What Makes Home Birth Safe? 06:36 Different Types of Midwives Explained 11:56 Why Candidate Selection Matters 15:11 What Actually Happens During a Home Birth 20:56 Common Reasons for Hospital Transfer 26:11 Emergency vs Non-Emergency Transfers 29:06 Newborn Care After Home Birth 33:46 Finding the Right Midwife 39:36 Home Birth Cost & Insurance 45:41 Birth Prep & Classes 51:56 Managing Labor Pain at Home 57:46 Common Home Birth Fears 1:01:36 Final Thoughts: Is Home Birth Right for You? Resources From This Episode: Birthing from Within bookBradley MethodHypnobirthing40 Blinks EyemaskNew Earth Mama Spotify Playlist Other Related Episodes: Birth Plan EpisodeBirth Episode Playlist 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

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4.9
out of 5
267 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
    176
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Healthy As A Mother
  • Show Website
    Healthy As A Mother

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