The Birth Lounge Podcast

HeHe Stewart
The Birth Lounge Podcast

We are diving into the variables and normal variations of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum! This is a safe space for all parents to hear what the experts have to say and to hear from other parents and their take on parenthood! Join us for all things birth and parenting for an empowering and research-backed walk with a birth and newborn expert HeHe Stewart, Founder of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge and creator of The Birth Lounge.

  1. 22H AGO

    Ep. 333: Comparing Canadian and American Birth Experiences with Katherine Debs

    In this episode, HeHe has a heartfelt conversation with her close friend and past doula client, Katherine. Together, they explore Katherine's distinct birth experiences within the Canadian and American healthcare systems, discussing the challenges and joys of childbirth. Katherine shares insightful anecdotes about her breech birth in Canada and a water birth in the US, highlighting the emotional and physical differences. She emphasizes the importance of trusting one's intuition, advocating for oneself, and setting boundaries. Throughout the episode, Katherine's journey as a mother interweaves with her experiences breaking generational patterns, nurturing her children's unique personalities, and finding joy in everyday moments. The conversation underscores the significance of support systems, intentional living, and the power of manifestation in creating a fulfilling life. 06:40 Comparing Canadian and American Healthcare Systems 07:26 Experiences with Canadian Healthcare System 12:39 Transition to American Healthcare System 12:59 The Beverly Birthing Center Experience 29:08 The Power of Manifestation and Trusting Yourself 44:55 Reflecting on Friendship and Support 46:34 The Challenges of Induction 48:59 Experiencing Labor and Delivery 50:53 Post-Birth Reflections 51:58 The Importance of Trust and Presence 55:02 Parenting and Childbirth Insights 01:01:39 Gratitude and High Vibrations 01:05:15 Raising Strong-Willed Children 01:11:35 Final Thoughts and Advice 01:18:25 Connecting with Katherine   Guest Bio: Katherine Debs has never followed the conventional path—she’s redefined what “normal” looks like. Born in Lebanon to a Lebanese father and an American mother, she grew up experiencing different cultures, later living in Boston and Montreal. Her passion for helping others led her to study International Affairs, dreaming of philanthropy and making a global impact. Her own health struggles in her teens introduced her to holistic wellness, sparking a lifelong commitment to empowering others to lead healthier, more intentional lives. Through her work with Arbonne, she’s helped countless people make meaningful changes, from nutrition to mindset. Now, Katherine is expanding her mission by becoming a Pilates teacher, bringing movement that feels good and helps people connect their mind and body. As a mom, entrepreneur, mentor, and passionate home cook, she wears many hats—but each one is rooted in her love for community, wellness, and personal growth. She currently lives in Boston with her husband and two daughters, leading with appreciation and inspiring others to live fully.   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Katherine on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Get the free class to help you avoid a c-section and reduce your risk of tearing!    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: Connect with Katherine here!

    1h 21m

  2. 5D AGO

    Ep. 332 Vitamin D in Pregnancy with Sarah Thompson

    In this episode, Sarah discusses the often overlooked importance of specific minerals and vitamins during pregnancy, with a deep dive into vitamin D. She explains the complexity of vitamin D's role in the body, its conversion process, and its myriad functions, including the regulation of calcium, neurotransmitters, hormone production, iron absorption, and immune function. The conversation covers common deficiencies, reasons why many are affected, and the impact of different lifestyle factors. Sarah also addresses potential over-supplementation of vitamin D, optimal dosing, and the intricate relationships among various nutrients crucial for its effectiveness. Other key topics include vitamin D's connection to preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, PCOS, postpartum mood complications, and breastfeeding. Practical advice on testing, supplementation, and dietary considerations is provided to help ensure adequate vitamin D levels for maternal and fetal health. This comprehensive discussion highlights the importance of tailored approaches to vitamin D intake based on individual needs and circumstances. TIMESTAMPS and check on DR    Guest Bio: Sarah Thompson is a board certified acupuncturist and herbalist as well as a certified functional medicine practitioner and birth doula. Sarah started practicing in 2005 after doing her internship in Beijing, China. Sarah founded Sacred Vessel in 2012 after years of working alongside medical doctors. She serves as clinic director as well as lead practitioner at Sacred Vessel.  ​​   One of her great passions, and missions, is to educate women and their providers on the vital role nutrition plays in pregnancy and labor outcomes. Through her, nearly, 20 years of experiences she has provided care to hundreds of expectant mamas. In 2021 she authored the book, Functional Maternity - Using Functional Medicine and Nutrition to Improve Pregnancy and Childbirth Outcomes. In 2024, she published her second book, a reference book for providers, Beyond Results - A Practitioner's Guide to Functional Lab Analysis in Pregnancy.  SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG Connect with HeHe on YouTube.   Connect with Sarah on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.functionalmaternity.com/   Get Functional Maternity, the book here!  Check out Sarah’s book for practitioners here!

    1h 7m

  3. MAR 26

    Ep. 331, Recast Pushing Effectively with Melissa Chappell, LDEM, CPM

    In this recast episode of the Birth Lounge Podcast, host HeHe and certified professional midwife Melissa Chapel dive into candid discussions about pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. The podcast offers a wealth of evidence-based information, understanding the importance of feeling pressure during labor, and recognizing the difference between intermittent and constant rectal or vaginal pressure. Melissa also addresses the controversial practice of being asked not to push if a doctor isn't present. Both emphasize the significance of mental and emotional preparedness in labor. The episode concludes with insights into laboring down, resting stages during labor, and navigating hospital protocols. This episode is a must-listen for expecting parents, laboring mothers, and professionals supporting childbirth. 01:23 Free Class: Avoiding C-Sections and Reducing Tearing 03:10 Part Two: Interview with Midwife Melissa Chapel 03:33 Understanding the Urge to Push 10:00 Navigating Hospital Birth Challenges 20:30 Understanding Cervical Dilation 21:15 Factors Affecting Cervical Changes 23:22 The Role of Fear in Labor 26:21 Mental and Emotional Barriers 27:34 The Importance of Acceptance in Birth 31:25 Laboring Down: Rest and Be Thankful 35:24 Navigating Hospital Births 38:03 Resources and Support for Birth 40:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Guest Bio: Melissa Chappell, LDEM, CPM is a midwife and owner of two birth centers in Utah, as well as a doula trainer of over 20 years. She is passionate about women’s health from a holistic and nourishing perspective, and advocates for women’s wellness in all areas of their lives. She has worked with midwives and birthing women all over the world, including in Haiti, Ethiopia, and Kenya, and loves seeing how women’s lives improve with access to safe and effective midwifery care. She’s the owner of Fresh Melissa, a company dedicated to creating tasty treats that are also healthy. She is the mother of 4 children and 3 grandchildren that she adores. In between catching babies, Melissa loves to explore as much of the world as she can – from international travel to exploring the mountains in her backyard. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Melissa on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Get HeHe’s Free Class to Avoid C-Section   Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: Connect with Melissa here!

    43 min

  4. MAR 21

    Ep. 330: Recast: Are Cervical Checks important with Melissa Chapell, LDEM, CPM

    In this recasted episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe welcomes midwife Melissa Chapel to discuss critical topics for expecting parents. They dive into the intricacies of cervical checks, including when they are necessary and how to navigate them in hospital settings. Melissa shares her extensive experience, emphasizing the importance of educated and informed decisions, advocating for oneself, and recognizing the difference between early and intense pushing urges. HeHe emphasizes that birth is an intuitive process and encourages listeners to trust their bodies. Various strategies for maintaining confidence and reducing fears in labor are discussed, ensuring an empowered birth experience.  01:24 Free Class to Avoid C-Section 03:10 Introducing Melissa Chapel: Midwife Extraordinaire 03:50 Navigating Late Labor and Pushing 04:28 Melissa's Journey and Day-to-Day Life 07:03 The Role of Cervical Exams in Labor 12:41 Advocating for Your Birth Preferences in the Hospital 19:03 Empowering Women's Instincts 20:04 Navigating Cervical Exams 20:55 Understanding Labor Progression 24:48 The 5-1-1 Rule and Hospital Transition 29:19 Early Urge to Push: What to Do 34:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Melissa Chappell, LDEM, CPM is a midwife and owner of two birth centers in Utah, as well as a doula trainer of over 20 years. She is passionate about women’s health from a holistic and nourishing perspective, and advocates for women’s wellness in all areas of their lives. She has worked with midwives and birthing women all over the world, including in Haiti, Ethiopia, and Kenya, and loves seeing how women’s lives improve with access to safe and effective midwifery care. She’s the owner of Fresh Melissa, a company dedicated to creating tasty treats that are also healthy. She is the mother of 4 children and 3 grandchildren that she adores. In between catching babies, Melissa loves to explore as much of the world as she can – from international travel to exploring the mountains in her backyard.   INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Melissa on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   Connect with Melissa here!

    37 min

  5. MAR 19

    Ep. 329: Recast of Four Induction Methods No One has Shared with You

    In this episode of the Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe provides a thorough overview of effective and evidence-based induction methods that may be lesser-known. This episode is jam packed with data and discussion points to help you have an informed conversation around finding your perfect induction equation so you can have a positive induction experience! With a focus on empowering expectant parents, HeHe discusses various induction techniques including oral and vaginal misoprostol, outpatient cervical ripeners, melatonin, and evening primrose oil. She underscores the importance of informed decision-making in the birth process and how these methods can help reduce the risk of unnecessary C-sections. The choice to be induced is a very personal one and one that should be made very intentionally. This episode dives into 4 options of induction that you probably have never heard of! These options can help decrease your risk for cesarean and reduce the need for additional interventions!    01:24 Free Class to Avoid C-Sections 03:30 Understanding Inductions and Their Importance 05:34 Exploring Induction Methods 27:03 The Role of Melatonin in Labor 36:39 Evening Primrose Oil for Induction 45:52 Join The Birth Lounge Community 48:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone! Get HeHe’s free class on how to avoid a c-section here!    Induction Equation Video: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/induction-equation   Induction Cheat Sheet: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/induction   Oral Miso:  https://www.cochrane.org/CD001338/PREG_oral-misoprostol-induction-labour   Outpatient Ripeners:  https://www.ajog.org/article/S0002-9378(22)00798-0/fulltext?dgcid=raven_jbs_aip_email   https://www.obgproject.com/2023/05/10/outpatient-labor-induction-with-misoprostol-impact-on-length-of-stay-and-vaginal-delivery-rates/?mc_cid=83f577ac38&mc_eid=854ebe014b   https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7027046/   https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1871519220302845   Melatonin: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9059/10/12/3252   https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fendo.2019.00616/full    https://www.cochrane.org/CD010527/PREG_giving-melatonin-women-pregnancy-protect-babys-brain-and-improve-long-term-outcomes-baby   https://grantome.com/grant/NIH/R21-HD086392-01 (Brigham & Women’s Hospital)   https://fetalmedicine.org/abstracts/2022/var/pdf/abstracts/2022/03846.pdf   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34058776/    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7044825/   EPO: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/evidence-on-evening-primrose-oil-epo/    https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1876382022000257   https://brieflands.com/articles/fga-130352.html

    50 min

  6. MAR 14

    Ep. 328: Eczema: The Gut-Health Connection with Dr. Nina-Marie Rueda

    In this episode, HeHe interviews Dr. Nina-Marie, an expert on gut health and pediatric wellness. They discuss the foundational importance of gut health, connections between gut microbiome and conditions such as eczema, cancer, and sleep disorders, as well as the impact of heavy metals and environmental factors. Dr. Nina-Marie emphasizes a holistic approach to addressing health concerns, advocating for thorough testing such as GI maps and HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis). The conversation also covers vaccination concerns, especially related to aluminum and mercury, as well as safe and effective alternative approaches to managing pediatric health issues. Dr. Nina-Marie provides practical advice for parents on how to address their children’s health concerns through diet, lifestyle changes, and appropriate testing and supplements.   From Nina: I love reading, hiking, sitting outside in the sun, and spending undistracted time with my husband and 3 children. As a traditionally trained Naturopathic Doctor who focuses on perinatal and pediatric health, I help your family grow without Big Pharma. Whether you’re coming to me for help getting and staying pregnant, or because your child is dealing with chronic eczema, constipation, ADHD, or autism - you can be sure that I will not be giving you the same one-size symptom-suppressing approach your typical doc gives you. Instead, I make sure your care is tailored to your specific body’s needs with functional testing so we can tackle the root cause of your/your child’s health issues. My areas of expertise are : Pediatric Health: Eczema ADHD Constipation Autism/ASD Behavioral concerns Picky eating Women’s Health: Preconception Pregnancy Postpartum Breastfeeding Thyroid disorders PCOS/Endometriosis   TIMESTAMPS 01:24 Free Class to Avoid C-Section 03:10 Understanding Eczema in Children 07:16 The Importance of Gut Health 24:40 Heavy Metals and Their Impact 34:21 Vaccination Concerns and Alternatives 41:23 Discussing Aluminum and Metals in Vaccinations 42:04 Understanding the Immune System and Vaccination Impact 47:05 Gut Health and Eczema Connection 47:59 Exploring Causes and Treatments for Eczema 50:49 Direct-to-Consumer Testing and Its Implications 01:00:30 Probiotics: To Use or Not to Use? 01:06:26 Steroid Creams for Eczema: Pros and Cons 01:14:24 Final Thoughts and Practical Advice     SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Dr. Nina Marie on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Attend our free class to help you avoid a c-section!  LINKS MENTIONED: Connect with Dr. Nina-Marie here!

    1h 18m

  7. MAR 12

    Ep. 327: Protein in Pregnancy: What you should eat, how much and why with Amanda Howell

    In this episode, Amanda joins HeHe to discuss the critical importance of protein intake for women, specifically regarding overall health, pregnancy, and fertility. Key topics include basic protein requirements, potential deficiencies, the role of protein during pregnancy trimesters, and protein's impact on fetal growth and postpartum recovery. Amanda emphasizes the need for intentional eating, recommending strategies for protein intake through diet and supplements while debunking popular myths about nutrition trends such as collagen and soy. This episode offers practical advice for women at various stages of their reproductive journey, highlighting the broad-reaching benefits of adequate protein consumption.   Guest Bio: Amanda Howell is a dedicated public health professional and current Master of Science in Nursing student specializing in women's health, with a focus on pre and postnatal nutrition and fitness. She is committed to providing evidence-based insights that empower women to make informed decisions. Amanda emphasizes the vital connection between proper nutrition during pregnancy and improved health outcomes, striving to support women through education, advocacy, and accessible resources.03:10 Introducing the Birth Lounge App 04:24 Today's Topic: Protein in Pregnancy 06:34 Special Guest: Amanda Howell 07:48 The Importance of Protein in Pregnancy 21:04 Understanding Protein Sources 27:27 Debunking Soy Myths 34:53 Navigating Shift Work and Sleep 42:21 Navigating the Wild West of Supplements 42:39 Choosing Safe and Reputable Protein Brands 42:50 Importance of Protein During Pregnancy 43:19 Third-Party Testing for Supplements 43:35 Avoiding Unsafe Ingredients in Supplements 44:02 Artificial Sweeteners and Personal Preferences 44:48 Recommended Protein Brands 48:02 Protein's Role in Conception and Pregnancy 51:00 Protein Deficiency and Fertility Issues 52:09 Protein's Impact on Hormones and Stress 55:56 Optimizing Protein Intake for Pregnancy 01:05:05 Postpartum Protein Needs and Recovery 01:07:16 Quick and Easy Protein Snacks for New Moms 01:11:23 The Importance of Protein for Overall Health 01:14:15 Stress and Its Impact on Pregnancy 01:16:48 Final Thoughts and Resources   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Amanda on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Watch the Avoid a C-Section webinar here!     RESOURCES MENTIONED: Connect with Amanda here!    Get HeHe’s favorite protein powder from Just Ingredients, here!     Optimum Nutrition Prepared Protein Shakes    Premier Protein Prepared Protein Shakes

    1h 21m

  8. MAR 7

    Ep 326: Advice from Your Big Sister with Jessie & Amanda

    In this episode of the Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe welcomes Jessie and Amanda, hosts of the Pregnant Bitches podcast, to discuss a variety of topics crucial for expecting and new parents. The discussion covers candid birth stories, navigating the medical system, mental health, postpartum experiences, and the complexities of relationships after having children. Jessie and Amanda share personal anecdotes about hospital vs. natural births, partner involvement, overcoming fears, and the reality of motherhood, including sex after birth. They emphasize the importance of community, informed choices, and embracing each phase of parenting.  01:24 Free Class to Avoid C-Section 03:10 Introduction to Today's Episode 04:32 Big Sister Advice with Jesse and Amanda 07:20 Birth Stories: Hospital vs. Natural Birth 13:29 NICU Experience and Postpartum Recovery 30:08 Partner Support During Labor 34:12 Navigating Labor with a Doula 35:13 The Role of Partners During Childbirth 38:53 Postpartum Relationship Dynamics 40:22 Adjusting to Life with Multiple Children 44:59 Considering a Third Child 47:29 Balancing Personal Freedom and Parenthood 56:13 Sex After Baby: What to Expect   Guest Bio: Jessie and Amanda are 2 moms, each to 2 boys, that struggled through their pregnancy & postpartum journey, feeling like there was so much they didn't know and that no one told them. Fast forward to today, and they share the real, raw and relatable side of motherhood. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on YouTube Connect with HeHe on IG    Connect with Pregnant Bitchez on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Check out the free class: How to avoid a c-section and reduce your chance of tearing in labor!    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: Connect with Jessie and Amanda here!

    1h 8m
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    4.9
    out of 5
    73 Ratings

    About

    We are diving into the variables and normal variations of pregnancy, birth, and postpartum! This is a safe space for all parents to hear what the experts have to say and to hear from other parents and their take on parenthood! Join us for all things birth and parenting for an empowering and research-backed walk with a birth and newborn expert HeHe Stewart, Founder of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge and creator of The Birth Lounge.

    Information

    • Creator
      HeHe Stewart
    • Years Active
      2018 - 2025
    • Episodes
      323
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © Copyright 2018. All rights reserved.
    • Show Website
      The Birth Lounge Podcast

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