The Cleft Mama Podcast

Anja Pownell

The Cleft Mama Podcast is a place for real, honest conversations about life with a baby or child born with a cleft lip and/or palate. Hosted by Anja Pownell, a German mum of three living in the UK, it brings together personal experience, practical guidance, and expert insight to help families navigate the cleft journey with more confidence and less overwhelm. After receiving a cleft diagnosis at her 20-week scan with her third baby, Anja set out to understand everything she could — from feeding and surgery to long-term care and development. Drawing on her own experience and conversations with parents and professionals, she shares the knowledge and reassurance she wished she had at the very beginning. From diagnosis and feeding to surgeries, speech, dentistry, and everyday family life, this podcast offers gentle guidance and real-life insight to support you and your child every step of the way.

Episodes

  1. 6d ago

    Preparing for Cleft Lip Surgery: What to Expect Before, During & After

    Lip surgery can feel like one of the biggest milestones on the cleft journey. In this episode, I share everything I'd learned from my son's cleft lip repair. From preparing in the weeks beforehand, packing for hospital, and navigating the day of surgery, to feeding, pain relief, wound care, and recovery afterwards. This episode combines advice from our cleft team, my own research, and our family's recent experience to help you feel more prepared and less overwhelmed as your baby's surgery approaches. References:          Lily's super smile: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/236810854082 ·      Jack's new smile: https://amzn.to/4fNt2AH ·      Besonders wenn sie lacht: https://www.amazon.de/Besonders-wenn-lacht-Kindersachbuch-Lippen-Kiefer-Gaumenspalte/dp/3902943386 ·      Pyjama fairies: https://pyjamafairies.org/order-garments ·      9 cleft services in the UK: https://clapa.com/what-is-cleft-lip-palate/about-nhs-cleft-services/ ·      Kelo-cote gel: https://www.boots.com/kelo-cote-scar-gel-treatment-6g-10259814

    40 min

  2. Jun 1

    Growing Up With a Cleft and Giving Back Around the World (with Ashleigh Baker)

    In this episode, I speak with Ashleigh Baker from Indiana, USA, who was born with a cleft lip and palate and went on to become a nurse. Ashleigh shares her memories of surgeries, speech therapy, growing up with a visible cleft, and finding lifelong friendships through a craniofacial summer camp. We also talk about her work with Smile Asia, where she travels to underserved communities to help children and adults receive life-changing cleft surgery. Ashleigh offers a unique perspective as both a former cleft patient and a healthcare professional, sharing hope, encouragement, and a reminder that no dream is out of reach. References:       Camp About Face: https://www.rileychildrens.org/support-services/camp-about-face ·      Smile Asia: https://smileasia.org/ ·      Operation Smile: https://www.operationsmile.org.uk/ ·      Smile Train: https://www.smiletrain.org.uk/ ·      Mercy Ships: https://www.mercyships.org.uk/patient-donation/ ·      Ashleigh's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carpe_diem_chroniclz/

    22 min

  3. May 25

    Growing Up With a Cleft: Tiffany's Story of Confidence & Acceptance (with Tiffany Pritchard)

    In this episode, I'm joined by Tiffany Pritchard, who shares her experience of growing up with a cleft lip and palate. We talk about surgeries, speech therapy, confidence, school life, and how her cleft affected her growing up — but also how she eventually found her voice through performing arts, television, radio, and advocacy work. Tiffany shares honest and encouraging insights for both parents and young people navigating the cleft journey, including why support groups matter so much and how appearance becomes only a tiny part of who you are. References: Catfish UK: YouTube: https://youtu.be/lGEtb9N4DzE?si=iSLFKZxJlmloaNtH Apple TV: https://tv.apple.com/gb/episode/jay--layla/umc.cmc.3brn1elmg1017qenoqaey7xos?showId=umc.cmc.77s0lwb4w7lrtckxp5fg0w4xy Tiffany's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/TalksTiffany Radio interview: https://www.facebook.com/reel/1575386610393535 CLAPA support for children: https://clapa.com/support-and-community/for-parents-and-families/support-for-your-child/ Tiffany's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misstiffanylouise/ Tiffany's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tiffanypritchard

    22 min

  4. May 18

    Best Bottles for Babies With a Cleft (What to Use & Why)

    Feeding a baby with a cleft can feel overwhelming at first — especially when it comes to choosing the right bottle. In this episode, I walk you through the most commonly used bottles for babies with a cleft, including MAM squeezy bottles, Dr Brown's bottles, and other alternatives. I explain how they work, why to use them, and what to consider when trying to find the right option for your baby. We also cover feeding techniques, positioning, and practical tips to make feeding easier and more effective. As always, this is based on my own research and experience — and the most important thing is finding what works for you and your baby. References: Bottle feeding guide: https://stan.store/AnjaPownell/p/bottle-feeding-guide CLAPA shop: https://clapashop.myshopify.com/ CLAPA welcome pack requests: https://clapa.com/support-and-community/for-parents-and-families/welcome-packs/ Medela special needs feeder / Haberman: https://amzn.to/4uaKNOJ MAM wide neck Size 3 teat and bottle: https://amzn.to/4dpgwFF MAM wide neck Size X teats: https://amzn.to/4dtVjth NUK First choice 6+ latex teats Size M: https://liki24.co.uk/p/first-choice-plus-latex-nipple-6-months-2-pieces-nuk/ (delivery from Romania, see if you can find local alternative!) NUK First choice 6+ latex teats Size L: https://amzn.to/3OMVI1A Combine with any NUK First choice bottles, such as: Single 300 ml bottle: https://amzn.to/4eXl0oc 2x 150 ml, 2x 300 ml bottles: https://amzn.to/3PiGbXo NUK Nature Sense bottles with size M teat: https://amzn.to/4n5ZnUE NUK Nature Sense teats: Size M: https://amzn.to/4f2wKps Size L: https://amzn.to/4u3sieE RCT comparing vented versus non-vented teats: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12887-018-1092-0 RCT comparing vented teats versus vented bottles: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2846955 Contains affiliate links

    31 min

  5. May 11

    The Emotional Side of a Cleft Diagnosis (with Kate Stapley)

    In this episode, I'm joined by Kate Stapley, mum to Harry, who was born with a cleft lip. Kate shares her journey from a difficult pregnancy and receiving a cleft diagnosis at the 20-week scan, through to surgery and the emotional process that followed. We talk openly about guilt, uncertainty, and the grieving process, as well as the moment she fell in love with her son's "forever smile". Kate also shares how finding support through CLAPA and connecting with other parents made a huge difference — and how she now gives back by supporting others on their own journey. References: ·      CLAPA website: https://clapa.com/ ·      Pyjama fairies: https://pyjamafairies.org/order-garments ·      Kate's Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/957410978239719

    40 min

  6. May 4

    E06: Amniocentesis After a Cleft Diagnosis: What to Consider

    After a cleft diagnosis at the 20-week scan, many parents are offered an amniocentesis — but this can feel like a big and difficult decision. In this episode, I explain what amniocentesis is, why it is offered, what it can (and can't) tell you, and the risks involved. We also talk about how common syndromic clefts are and how to approach this deeply personal decision in a way that feels right for you. References: • NHS website Amniocentesis: https://www.nhs.uk/tests-and-treatments/amniocentesis/  • Etymology: https://www.etymonline.com/word/amniocentesis  • Epidemiology of non-syndromic and syndromic clefts: - Mossey PA, Modell B. Epidemiology of oral clefts 2012: an international perspective. Front Oral Biol. 2012;16:1-18. doi: 10.1159/000337464. Epub 2012 Jun 25. PMID: 22759666. - Calzolari E, Pierini A, Astolfi G, Bianchi F, Neville AJ, Rivieri F. Associated anomalies in multi-malformed infants with cleft lip and palate: An epidemiologic study of nearly 6 million births in 23 EUROCAT registries. Am J Med Genet A. 2007 Mar 15;143A(6):528-37. doi: 10.1002/ajmg.a.31447. PMID: 17286264. • NHS website Screening tests: https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/your-pregnancy-care/screening-tests/

    15 min

  7. Apr 27

    From Diagnosis to Joy: A Cleft Mum's Story (with Charlotte Hall)

    In this episode, I'm joined by Charlotte Hall, mum of four and author of Lily's Super Smile. Charlotte shares her journey from receiving a cleft diagnosis at the 20-week scan through pregnancy, birth, feeding challenges, and her daughter's surgeries. We talk honestly about the emotional impact, the realities of feeding and weight gain, and how things changed once her daughter arrived. Charlotte also shares what inspired her to write her book and support other families in the cleft community. Charlotte's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilyssupersmile/ Charlotte's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@angrytwinmom News article: https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/midland-mum-didnt-recognise-baby-33807595

    32 min

  8. Apr 20

    What To Do After a Cleft Diagnosis: Practical Steps for Pregnancy & Birth

    In this episode, I walk you through practical steps you can take after a cleft lip and/or palate diagnosis, whether you are still pregnant or your baby has already been born. From harvesting colostrum and connecting with your cleft team to preparing for birth, feeding, and setting up support, this episode focuses on what actually helps in those early stages. NHS Colostrum harvesting: https://www.nth.nhs.uk/resources/colostrum-harvesting/ NHS Cleft teams: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/cleft-lip-and-palate/treatment/ Callie and her cleft (scroll down on the page): https://clapa.com/support-and-community/for-parents-and-families/antenatal-diagnosis/ Jack's new smile: https://amzn.to/4tVoRqc Birth and baby with a cleft: https://healthtalk.org/experiences/cleft-lip-and-palate/birth-and-bonding/ Ina May's Guide to childbirth: https://amzn.to/4teDpB3 Facebook group CLAPA: https://www.facebook.com/groups/clapacommunity  Contains some affiliate links

    19 min

  9. Apr 13

    After the 20-Week Scan: Processing a Cleft Diagnosis

    In this episode, I talk about what it really feels like to receive a cleft lip and/or palate diagnosis. From shock and guilt to the fear of the unknown, I share my own experience and the emotions many parents go through in those early days. I also touch on the challenges of telling others and navigating unhelpful reactions. If you're at the beginning of your cleft journey, this episode is here to help you feel understood, supported, and a little less alone.

    11 min

  10. Apr 6

    Understanding Cleft Lip & Palate: Types, Terms & Treatment

    In this episode, I explain what a cleft lip and palate actually is, including the different types of clefts and the terminology you might hear along the way. I also give a simple overview of how clefts are treated, to help you better understand your baby's condition. If you're feeling overwhelmed by medical terms or unsure what everything means, this episode will help you feel more informed and confident.

    16 min

  11. Mar 30

    From Diagnosis to 4 Months: My Cleft Journey So Far

    In this first episode, I share my personal journey from pregnancy to where we are now at four months, just ahead of my baby's first surgery. From the moment of diagnosis at the 20-week scan to the early days after birth, I talk honestly about the emotions, challenges, and what helped me along the way. If you're at the beginning of your cleft journey, I hope this episode brings you reassurance, comfort, and the reminder that you are not alone.

    32 min
  • 11 Episodes

About

The Cleft Mama Podcast is a place for real, honest conversations about life with a baby or child born with a cleft lip and/or palate. Hosted by Anja Pownell, a German mum of three living in the UK, it brings together personal experience, practical guidance, and expert insight to help families navigate the cleft journey with more confidence and less overwhelm. After receiving a cleft diagnosis at her 20-week scan with her third baby, Anja set out to understand everything she could — from feeding and surgery to long-term care and development. Drawing on her own experience and conversations with parents and professionals, she shares the knowledge and reassurance she wished she had at the very beginning. From diagnosis and feeding to surgeries, speech, dentistry, and everyday family life, this podcast offers gentle guidance and real-life insight to support you and your child every step of the way.

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