Mothering From Within

Kaili Ets

Introducing Mothering from Within - the podcast that empowers and supports new mothers on their journey through early motherhood. Join host Kaili Ets, a seasoned pediatric occupational therapist and your holistic baby guru, as she provides credible information, emotional support, and practical solutions for navigating the ups and downs of motherhood. Through solo shows and  guest interviews, Mothering from Within will help you gain confidence, trust your instincts, and embrace motherhood on your terms. Get ready to connect, learn, and lead your family with courage and confidence.Stay Connected With Kailihttps://www.kailiets.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/@TheHolisticBabyGuruYT: https://www.youtube.com/@theholisticbabyguru

  1. OCT 22

    Ep.45 | Simplifying Motherhood: One Holistic Path to Baby Sleep, Feeding & Regulation

    What if everything you’ve been trying to figure out in motherhood—your baby’s sleep, their feeding struggles, their reflux, their fussiness—was actually all connected? In this deeply personal episode, host Kaili Ets, pediatric OT and mama of two, shares why she’s merging all of her courses, workshops, and resources into one holistic path: The Holistic Baby Flow Method™. From the burnout of “doing it all,” to the invisible load of motherhood, and the grief of losing her father earlier this year, Kaili reflects on what it really means to slow down, simplify, and support mothers and babies at the root—nervous system safety and connection. This isn’t a tips-and-tricks episode. It’s a heartfelt reflection on the emotional and energetic transformation that happens when we stop treating everything in silos—and start creating systems that truly serve. In this episode, Kaili shares: ✔ Why she’s letting go of multiple courses and offers ✔ The hidden cost of fragmentation (for mamas and babies) ✔ How her personal grief led to a professional rebirth ✔ Why nervous system safety is the common thread behind sleep, reflux, and regulation ✔ A sneak peek at the Holistic Baby Flow Method™ coming soon Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome 01:00 – A heart-to-heart about slowing down 02:00 – The impact of grief & burnout 04:30 – Too many tabs open: why fragmentation isn’t helping 06:00 – The invisible load of motherhood 07:15 – Letting go of control & trusting your body 08:30 – Why everything is connected 09:00 – What families actually need 10:00 – Introducing the Holistic Baby Flow Method 11:00 – A collective invitation to simplify 🎁 Want to be the first to hear about the Baby Flow Method launch? Send a DM to @TheHolisticBabyGuru to be added to the waitlist!  📘 Grab Kaili’s book Mothering From Within → [www.kailiets.com/book] 📱 Follow @theholisticbabyguru for more support 💜 If this episode resonates, share it with a friend and tag us on IG. Let’s build this gentler path together.

    1h 58m
  2. OCT 1

    Ep.44: Fussy Baby, Burnt Out Mama? Understanding Nervous System Co-Regulation

    If your baby is fussy, hard to settle, clingy, or always wants to be held…  And you feel touched out, overstimulated, and just done by the end of the day… This episode is for you. 💜 Join pediatric occupational therapist and holistic baby expert Kaili Ets for a powerful conversation about mother–baby nervous system co-regulation—what it means, how it works, and why it’s often the missing link when sleep, feeding, or fussiness feel out of control. You’ll learn: Why your baby feels your stress—even when you’re doing your best to hide itWhat co-regulation really means (hint: it’s not just skin-to-skin or babywearing)How a dysregulated caregiver affects baby’s nervous system developmentSimple strategies to support your own nervous system (even in 30 seconds)Why nervous system work isn’t about doing more—it’s about feeling safer togetherThis episode will help you feel seen, supported, and more empowered to meet your baby’s needs without sacrificing your own well-being. 🕒 Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome back to Mothering From Within 01:01 – Nervous system dysregulation in both moms & babies 03:17 – Why your baby mirrors your state (co-regulation 101) 06:10 – Regulation is felt, not forced 09:33 – How your own nervous system sets the tone for your baby 13:14 – Tips to support regulation in your daily rhythms 17:45 – Final thoughts & gentle encouragement ✨ Resources & Support: 📘 Grab Mothering From Within the book → https://www.kailiets.com/book 📍 Work with Kaili 1:1 or learn more about support → https://www.kailiets.com 💜 If this episode resonated, please subscribe, rate, and share with a fellow mama who needs this message.  Tag @theholisticbabyguru and let’s keep this conversation going!

    9 min
  3. SEP 17

    Ep.43: Tight, Fussy, and Hard to Settle? Signs Your Baby Might Be Holding Tension

    Does your baby feel stiff in your arms?  Arch their back when feeding or crying?  Struggle to settle or relax—even when all their “needs” seem met? You’re not imagining it—and it’s not just colic, gas, or a “hard baby.” In this episode of Mothering From Within, pediatric OT Kaili Ets shares what it really means when a baby feels tight, fussy, or hard to settle—and how body tension in babies often goes unrecognized and misunderstood by both professionals and well-meaning family members. You’ll learn: What “holding tension” looks like in babies (subtle and obvious signs)The connection between birth experiences, body patterns, and behaviorWhy some babies arch, hate lying flat, or can’t fully relax—even when fed and lovedThe emotional toll on moms when no one listens to their concernsHow to start supporting your baby’s body gently, without waiting for a diagnosisThis episode is your reminder that if your baby feels “off,” your instincts are likely right—and there is help available. 🕒 Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to Mothering From Within 00:57 – You can feel when something’s off 03:41 – Why this episode matters: the missing conversation 06:30 – Signs your baby may be holding tension 09:27 – How birth, positioning, and compression affect baby’s body 12:10 – Colic, reflux, feeding issues—could tension be underneath it all? 14:45 – Why your baby’s discomfort isn’t “just a phase” 17:03 – The toll on moms when no one validates your concerns 19:56 – What to do next: looking deeper, trusting yourself, finding support ✨ Resources & Next Steps: 📘 Grab Kaili’s book: Mothering From Within → https://kailiets.com/book/ 🎁 Download the Free Baby Body Tension Guide → https://freebie.kailiets.com/baby-tension 📍 Interested in local support or research participation? Learn more → https://kailiets.com/therapy/ 💜 If this episode resonated, share it with another mama who needs it—and tag @theholisticbabyguru so Kaili can cheer you on.

    10 min
  4. AUG 6

    Ep. 42: Torticollis & Flat Head Syndrome: What Every Parent Needs to Know

    In this expert-packed episode of Mothering From Within, pediatric OT Kaili Ets is joined by Marisa Marino, a seasoned pediatric physical therapist who specializes in torticollis and plagiocephaly (flat head syndrome) in babies as well as pre/postnatal women's health. Together, they break down: What torticollis and plagiocephaly actually are (and what causes them)The difference between a baby’s head turning preference and a true diagnosisSimple positioning strategies to try at homeHow to spot early signs before it becomes a bigger issueWhen to seek professional support—and what therapy might look likeWhether you're noticing a flat spot on your baby’s head, struggling with tummy time, or hearing new words like “plagiocephaly” or “torticollis” from your provider—this conversation will help you feel more informed, empowered, and supported. Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Welcome to Mothering From Within 01:14 – Meet Marisa Marino, pediatric physical therapist 03:03 – What is torticollis? What is plagiocephaly? 04:50 – How head shape and positioning are connected 09:44 – Treatment strategies + tummy time tips 12:11 – What the research says & how to advocate for your baby 26:22 – Final reflections & where to find Marisa Perfect for parents who are: • Noticing their baby always turns their head one way • Concerned about flat spots on their baby’s head • Wondering if tummy time is enough • Looking for holistic, gentle alternatives to “wait and see” 💜 Know a mama who needs this? Forward the episode or tag us on IG! Follow Kaili → @theholisticbabyguru Find Marisa → risamarino@gmail.com Want to participate in my Torticollis research study?  Book your FREE session here

    29 min
  5. JUL 23

    Ep.41: Understanding Torticollis in Babies – Causes, Red Flags & Holistic Treatment Options

    In this episode of Mothering From Within, Kaili Ets—pediatric occupational therapist and holistic baby guru—dives deep into the often misunderstood condition of Torticollis in babies. If your baby constantly turns their head to one side, struggles with tummy time or latching, hates one breast, or seems tight and fussy when lying flat—this episode is a must-listen. You'll learn: What torticollis actually is (spoiler: it's more than just a neck issue)The connection between torticollis and tongue tiesCommon causes, from in-utero positioning to birth interventionsWhy your baby’s tension might be showing up as feeding, sleep, or motor issuesWhy passive stretching alone often isn’t enough—and what you can do insteadKaili also shares how craniosacral therapy, osteopathy, and whole-body approaches can gently support babies with head turning preference—without forcing movement or waiting it out. If you’re local to Stoney Creek, Burlington, or Ancaster, she’s also inviting families to participate in her osteopathy thesis research project focused on gentle, effective support for babies with torticollis. 🕒 Episode Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to Mothering From Within 01:11 – Personal update + what inspired this episode 01:43 – What is torticollis? Signs & red flags 04:07 – Common causes of torticollis in babies 05:51 – Why torticollis is more than a neck issue 09:39 – Torticollis & tongue tie connection 15:06 – Why stretching alone isn’t always enough 18:52 – Join Kaili’s local research study (free treatment opportunity!) 19:54 – Final thoughts + how to support your baby holistically ✨ Resources Mentioned: 📘 Mothering From Within – Kaili’s book: A holistic guide to sleep, reflux, feeding, baby development & maternal well-being. Buy your copy here. 🎁 [Free Baby Body Tension Guide] – Learn how to identify subtle signs of body tension at home 📍 [Join Kaili’s Research Study] – For local families with babies experiencing torticollis or head turning preference

    22 min
  6. JUN 26

    Ep.40: Is It Really Just Colic? When Crying Means Something.

    In this episode, Kaili dives deep into the topic of “colic” and what it really means when your baby is crying inconsolably. She challenges the catchall label of colic, encouraging parents to trust their instincts and look beyond the surface for possible root causes. Key Topics Covered: [01:12]  What “colic” actually means and why it’s often just a label, not an explanation. [03:10] The importance of trusting your parental intuition when something feels off with your baby. [04:28] Common root causes of excessive crying in babies, including: Nervous system sensitivity and sensory overloadEmotional processing from birth or in utero experiencesDigestive issues (food intolerances, gut health, reflux, etc.)Body tension and compression from birth or positioningOral dysfunction and feeding challengesPractical steps for parents:[09:37]  What Parents Can Do Trust your gut and observe patterns in your baby’s behaviourConsider holistic support options like craniosacral therapy, osteopathy, or pediatric OTFocus on co-regulation—your calm helps your baby’s calmSeek support when needed; you don’t have to do it aloneResources Mentioned: Free Baby Body Tension Guide Kaili’s book, “Mothering From Within” In-person and virtual support options for parentsTakeaway Message: You know your baby best. Colic is not the end of the story—it’s a signal. With the right support and clarity, you and your baby can find your rhythm again. Trust yourself, trust your baby, and remember: you’re doing an incredible job. Connect with Kaili: Kaili's WebsiteKaili's InstagramBook a Right Fit Call with KailiFor in-person support (Stony Creek/Hamilton area) or virtual resources - www.kailiets.comShare this episode with another mama who needs to hear it!

    14 min
  7. JUN 4

    Ep.39: From NICU to Nurtured - One Mama’s Journey Through Prematurity, Healing & Hope with Gail Gabriel

    In this heartfelt episode, Kaili sits down with Gail Gabriel, a fellow occupational therapist, NICU mama, and founder of The NICU Collective. Gail shares her raw and powerful journey from the unexpected early delivery of her son at 30 weeks to navigating the NICU, early intervention, and her own emotional healing. Whether you’ve experienced a high-risk birth, a NICU stay, or just the intense uncertainty of new motherhood, this episode offers real talk, deep compassion, and hard-earned wisdom. You’ll hear about: What it's really like to bring home a premature babyHow to shift from fear to trust—even after traumaThe power of community and sharing your storyMental health, NICU PTSD, and finding your way back to selfWhy creating space for your healing matters as much as your baby’s developmentGail’s story will resonate deeply with any mama who’s ever felt out of control, isolated, or overwhelmed—and her insights will help you feel seen, supported, and not alone. 🕒 Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & Kaili’s intro 03:18 – Meet Gail Gabriel: OT, mom, NICU warrior 06:46 – Gail’s birth & NICU story: a 30-week surprise 11:25 – Trauma, healing, and finding her footing again 17:52 – Mental health, fear, and building resilience 22:00 – Finding support when no one else gets it 26:49 – The NICU Collective: creating safe spaces for NICU families 30:25 – Why sharing your story matters 31:40 – Redefining self-care as a NICU mom 36:35 – Gail’s takeaway: the NICU journey shapes you 41:00 – Final reflections + where to find Gail 💜 Connect with Gail: Instagram: @nicu_collective Facebook: NICU Collective 📘 Grab Kaili’s Book: Mothering From Within – your compassionate, holistic guide to baby sleep, development, reflux, and more - https://www.kailiets.com/book ✨ Loved this episode?  Subscribe, rate, and share it with a friend who needs this kind of soul-deep support. And tag us on IG @theholisticbabyguru and @nicu_collective—we love hearing your thoughts!

    41 min
  8. MAY 21

    Ep.38: Should You Hire a Doula? How to Know If It’s Right for Your Family

    Should You Hire a Doula? How to Know If It’s Right for Your Family. In this episode of 'Mothering From Within,' host Kaili Ets sits down with Kristen Revere, the owner and founder of Gold Coast Doulas, to discuss the critical role doulas play in both birth and postpartum care. Kristen, an elite certified birth and postpartum doula, shares her journey from political fundraising to founding a successful doula agency in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The conversation touches on the various services doulas offer, including emotional support, breastfeeding assistance, and overnight care. Kaili and Kristen also highlight the often-overlooked importance of preparing for the postpartum period, offering valuable advice for new parents. Tune in to learn how doulas can provide essential support during the magical yet challenging first years of parenthood. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 01:15 Meet Our Special Guest: Kristen Revere 02:23 Kristen's Journey to Becoming a Doula 05:05 The Role and Importance of Doulas 14:16 Personal Experiences with Doulas 16:17 Planned Medical Births and Doulas 20:18 Postpartum Support and Planning 22:51 Fertility Benefits and Postpartum Support 23:26 The Importance of Rest for New Mothers 24:51 Sharing Responsibilities and Overcoming Challenges 26:02 Role and Benefits of Postpartum Doulas 32:08 Hiring a Doula: What to Look For 34:04 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights 36:57 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 37:44 Where to Learn More and Closing Remarks To learn more about what Kristen offers: Kristen's WebsiteKristen's Instagram Stay in Touch With Kaili Kaili's WebsiteKaili's InstagramBook a Right Fit Call with Kaili 📘 Want more holistic support? Grab Kaili’s book Mothering From Within  💜 Subscribe + share with a mama who needs this insight.

    40 min

About

Introducing Mothering from Within - the podcast that empowers and supports new mothers on their journey through early motherhood. Join host Kaili Ets, a seasoned pediatric occupational therapist and your holistic baby guru, as she provides credible information, emotional support, and practical solutions for navigating the ups and downs of motherhood. Through solo shows and  guest interviews, Mothering from Within will help you gain confidence, trust your instincts, and embrace motherhood on your terms. Get ready to connect, learn, and lead your family with courage and confidence.Stay Connected With Kailihttps://www.kailiets.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/@TheHolisticBabyGuruYT: https://www.youtube.com/@theholisticbabyguru