This week on Growing, we’re talking about the little things you figure out along the way, the funny moments that shock you at 3am.We opened the floor to you, our beautiful community, and your confessions, anecdotes, and “no one told me!” moments had us cackling and nodding in solidarity.Motherhood is full of surprises and often the best survival tips come from fellow mums, not a manual.We’re proud to be partnering with Once Upon, the easiest way to turn everyday chaos into beautiful photo books.Start your story hereUse code GROWING25 for 25% off Valid from June 24 – July 6 so run, don't walk and don’t miss out!This episode is for you if:You’ve ever thought: “Why didn’t anyone tell me this?!”You love a good laugh and real talk about early motherhoodYou’ve been blindsided by night sweats, nipple pain and identity shiftsTag a mum friend, forward it to your mum club, and let’s laugh (and cry) together. Please head over and follow us on Instagram: @growingthepodcast And! Don’t forget to hit follow in your podcast app, if you loved the episode please leave us a 5 star review.
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E88: What Your Midwife Wishes You Knew
The truths and tips midwives want every parent to hear.In this heartfelt (and hilarious) episode of Growing, we throw to our fellow midwives our “middy sisters” to share the things we wish more women knew.From body fluids and body hair to co-sleeping and safe sleep, from breastfeeding challenges to being loud in labour - we cover it all with no filter. Here’s the truth about midwives:- We don’t care if you’re loud in labour.- We want you to prepare for birth and postpartum - because both matter.- And we think you’re absolutely amazing. What we cover: Why your body doesn’t need to be hidden or apologised forThe unfiltered truth about breastfeeding, sleep, and supportWhy we welcome (and expect!) vocalisation in labourOur biggest wish: that families prepare for postpartum and birthThe deep honour of walking alongside you as midwivesResources & Mentions:Red Nose Safe Sleep Guidelines: rednose.org.au/section/safe-sleepingThe Safe Seven Co-Sleeping Framework: llli.org/breastfeeding-info/sleep-bedsharePowerBirth Course: Learn how to advocate for your birth with confidence → powerbirthcourse.com.auRelated Episodes You’ll Love:Vaginal Birth Non-Negotiables → Listen hereBreastfeeding Basics & Real Talk → Listen hereNewborn Care 101 → Listen hereFollow us on Instagram @growingthepodcast and please hit follow in your podcast app...and pretty please send this episode to someone who needs a little reassurance and realness!Hosts: @birthwithbeth_ @lillian.beth
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E83: How to Make Mother’s Day Feel Like Yours
Mother’s Day is this Sunday, and we know it can stir up a lot. Whether it brings joy, grief, pressure, or all of the above — we’re here to make sure you feel honoured, nourished, and seen.In this week’s episode of Growing, we’re diving into real, relatable, and restorative ways to spend the day. Whether you’re soaking up time with your kids, honouring your mum, connecting with chosen family, or spending the day solo — we’ve got ideas to help you feel full (not frazzled).From meaningful rituals to simple self-care wins, we’re covering:Thoughtful ways to celebrate yourselfCreative Mother’s Day ideas with or without a partnerLow-stress traditions that actually feel goodAnd what to skip entirely (because, yes, you can)Looking for a last-minute gift idea?We’ve pulled together curated Mother’s Day Gift Guides on our Instagram @growingthepodcast. From indulgent to practical, with price points from $30 to $300 — it’s all there to help you (or your significant other) get it right.Do us (and her) a favour:Forward this episode to a fellow mama who deserves a day that actually feels like a gift — not a chore. Let’s skip the long queues, and make room for real moments. Follow us on InstagramWe’re sharing more ideas, resources, and honest conversations about motherhood every day — come say hi: @growingthepodcast — also don’t forget to check out our brand new mini series Call the Midwife.
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☎️ Call the Midwife: Understanding Your Baby’s Movements in Pregnancy
Your baby’s movements are more than just special moments of connection, they’re a sign of their wellbeing. In this episode of Call the Midwife, we dive into what’s normal (and what’s not) when it comes to your baby's movement. We unpack:When you might expect those first flutters and kicksWhy there’s no “perfect” number of movements to countHow to tune into your baby’s unique patternWhat to do (and what not to do) if you’re ever unsureMost importantly: If you ever feel like something is off, don’t wait. Contact your care provider or go straight to your maternity unit for assessment.Pregnancy sleep just got easier. Sleepybelly is the pregnancy pillow that supports your bump, back and hips - so you can rest more comfortably. Trusted by health professionals and loved by mums, Sleepybelly is our go-to for better sleep in pregnancy.Use the code GROWING10 for 10% off and enjoy a 30-night risk-free trial at sleepybelly.com.au🎧 Catch up on other must-listen episodes in the Call the Midwife series:Red Flags in Pregnancy: What to Know and When to ActSafe Sleep in Pregnancy: How Your Position Affects BabyNausea & Vomiting in Pregnancy: What’s Normal, What’s NotShare this episode with a fellow parent-to-be and tag us @growingthepodcast
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☎️ Call the Midwife: Routine Pregnancy Tests & Screenings
Pregnancy comes with a long list of new things - and routine blood tests and ultrasounds are high on that list. But what are they all actually for?In this short and sweet Call the Midwife episode, we break down the key routine tests offered throughout pregnancy, what they check for, and why they matter - minus the jargon and stress.We cover:First trimester bloods: What’s included and what they’re screening forGenetic screening options (like NIPT and combined first trimester screening)Iron, vitamin D, blood group, antibodies and moreGlucose tolerance testing (GTT): What to expect around 26–28 weeksRoutine ultrasounds: Dating scan, nuchal translucency, morphologyThe role of informed consent and your right to ask questions at every stepWhether you’re newly pregnant or just want to feel more informed, this is a great starting point to understand what’s being tested - and why.Sponsored by SleepybellyLet’s be honest: pregnancy sleep can be a bit… tricky. That’s why we love Sleepybelly - the ultimate pregnancy pillow that supports your bump, back and hips, so you can finally rest easy. It’s designed by parents and trusted by health professionals.Use the code GROWING10 for 10% off and enjoy a 30-night risk-free trial at sleepybelly.com.auThanks for tuning in - and don’t forget to share this episode with a fellow parent-to-be.
Growing is your handbook for birth, babies and beyond brought to you by midwives and mums Beth Ryan and Lilly Claxton. Join us every Wednesday for a solid dose of solidarity as we explore all things motherhood.
New Zealand