The Birth Lounge Podcast

• Ep. 358: Unveiling Spiritual Connections: Psychic Mediumship, Spirit Babies, and More with Jessica Lynne

  In this fascinating episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe is joined by Psychic Medium Jessica Lynne to delve into the world of psychic mediumship, spirit babies, energetic blocks, and the power of surrendering in life and labor. Jessica shares her extraordinary abilities to connect with the spirit world, offering comfort and guidance to those seeking connections beyond the material realm. They discuss the concept that babies choose their parents, the lessons learned through challenging experiences, and the role of spirit guides. Jessica also provides personal insights for HeHe's pregnancy, including an intuitive sense of a baby boy and a unique vision of a potential shower birth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about spirituality, mediumship, and the magical connections that exist in our lives.   00:00 Introduction to the Episode 01:50 Exploring Psychic Mediumship 03:09 Personal and Energetic Blocks 16:30 Intentional Language and Manifestation 20:35 Trusting the Journey 30:17 Introduction to Spirit Babies 31:03 Choosing Our Parents and Babies 31:45 Personal Reflections on Parental Relationships 34:32 Expectations and Realities of Pregnancy 35:35 Gender Intuition and Preparations 38:08 Birth Plans and Spiritual Connections 49:17 The Role of Faith and Spirituality 51:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Guest Bio: Jessica Lynne is a gifted medium whose extraordinary abilities have intrigued and captivated seekers looking for connections beyond the material world. Emerging as a guiding light and source of comfort, Jessica assists those in search of reconnecting with departed loved ones. Using her profound spiritual insight and empathetic approach, Jessica Lynne has dedicated her life to bridging the gap between the living and the spirit world.   Jessica has had the honour & privilege of reading for an array of celebrities, professional athletes, musicians and business owners. She has recently been featured on The Morning Show, 7News, The Australian, Marie Claire, Mamamia & Body+Soul, to name a few. Jessica conducts her readings online so she can connect with clients all over the world.    If you would like to connect with Jessica you can follow her on Instagram @jessicalynnemediumship, check out her website at www.jessicalynnemediumship.com or listen to her podcast "Talk Spirit To Me"; ranked #2 on the Apple Charts for Spirituality: Listen on Spotify Listen on Apple INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Jessica 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: www.jessicalynnemediumship.com 

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• Ep. 357: Navigating Parental Leave in the U.S.: Insights from Hello Bundle's Linzay Davis

  In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe welcomes Linzay Davis, founder of Hello Bundle, to discuss the complex landscape of parental leave in the United States. They explore topics such as the lack of a standardized national paid parental leave policy, the nuances of FMLA, options available through individual states and employers, parental leave for entrepreneurs, and advice on how to best prepare for maternity or paternity leave. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding company policies, state programs, and the potential legal issues surrounding parental leave. Linzay shares valuable insights and actionable steps for expecting parents to maximize their time off and financial support during this critical period.   00:00 Introduction to Parental Leave Issues in the US 01:35 Guest Introduction: Linzay Davis from Hello Bundle 02:31 Understanding Parental Leave Options in the US 03:01 Navigating FMLA and Short-Term Disability 04:57 Challenges and Confusion Around Parental Leave 06:11 Exploring Job Protection and Accommodations 07:35 The Reality of Parental Leave in the US 19:45 Legal Rights and Risks of Asking for Accommodations 24:19 Planning and Preparing for Parental Leave 25:43 Parental Leave for Non-Gestational Parents 26:51 Understanding Short Term Disability and Parental Leave 27:50 Navigating HR and Company Policies 33:15 State vs. Employer Leave Policies 36:05 Parental Leave for Entrepreneurs and Small Business Employees 42:31 Best Practices and Resources for Parental Leave 43:26 Top States and Companies for Parental Leave 47:00 Creating an Ideal Nationwide Parental Leave Policy 48:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Guest Bio: Hello, Bundle helps new and expecting parents navigate parental leave in the US so they can take the most paid time off possible when they have a baby. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Linzay on IG  Connect with Linzay on TikTok   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.hello-bundle.com/

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• Ep. 356: Tackling Perceived Low Milk Supply and Maximizing Breastfeeding Success with Ashlee Brown, IBCLC

  In this insightful episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe welcomes Ashlee Brown, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mother of three, to discuss the crucial topic of perceived versus true low milk supply. The conversation starts with the prevalence of perceived low milk supply and its impact on breastfeeding duration. Ashlee shares her personal pregnancy journey and emphasizes the importance of understanding how your body changes during this period. They delve into the significance of early breastfeeding, the first hours after birth, and pumping strategies to build an optimal milk supply. The discussion also covers the role of flange sizes, hormonal influences, and the importance of proper latch techniques. Ashlee explains the benefits of evidence-based tools and supplements, and addresses common myths surrounding lactation. She also highlights the issue of widely spaced tubular breasts and insufficient glandular tissue (IGT) as potential reasons for low milk supply. Tune in to discover effective solutions and strategies for successful breastfeeding and learn how to distinguish between perceived and actual low milk supply.   00:00 Introduction and an update on HeHe’s Pregnancy Journey 03:12 The Birth Lounge App: Features and Benefits 06:04 Introduction to Low Milk Supply 06:53 Meet Ashlee Brown: Lactation Consultant 07:52 Understanding Low Milk Supply: Myths and Facts 23:24 Causes and Solutions for Low Milk Supply 29:07 The Importance of Proper Flange Sizes 33:07 Challenges with Breast Pumps and Wearable Pumps 37:26 Choosing the Right Breast Pump 38:29 Reusing Pumps for Future Children 40:28 Power Pumping and Its Effectiveness 44:14 Strategic Pumping to Increase Supply 49:18 Supplements and Diet for Milk Supply 53:04 Medications for Low Supply 55:08 Understanding Insufficient Glandular Tissue (IGT) 59:21 The Importance of Weighted Feeds 01:04:46 Final Thoughts and Support for Low Supply Moms    Guest Bio: Ashlee is a mom of 3, IBCLC, and the owner of Kentucky Breastfeeding Center located in Lexington, KY. She started as a childbirth educator and earned her IBCLC via pathway 3 mentorship at Novant Prince William hospital in Manassas, VA. She specializes in tongue & lip ties, low supply, and mentorship for future IBCLCs. Her passion is educating other professionals on the benefits of breastfeeding and the field of lactation. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Ashlee 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: www.kentuckybreastfeedingcenter.com

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• Ep. 355: Understanding Gestational Diabetes: Testing, Risks, and Management with Midwife Melissa Chappell

  In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe discusses one of the most requested topics, Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), with midwife Melissa Chappell. Melissa, who owns Utah Birth Suites and founded Songbird Maternity, offers a holistic view on women's health and is a staunch advocate for informed consent and patient autonomy. The conversation dives deep into what GDM is, how it occurs, the importance of testing, and why the typical 50-gram glucose challenge may not always reflect reality. The duo also covers alternative testing methods, including continuous glucose monitoring, diet and exercise's role, and the impact of GDM on the baby. Melissa sheds light on the myths and truths about GDM, the implications of controlled versus uncontrolled GDM, and the risks associated with traditional medical practices, such as induction. Listeners will walk away feeling informed and empowered to engage in confident discussions with their healthcare providers. Tune in to get evidence-based insights, especially focusing on holistic and patient-centered care approaches for managing gestational diabetes.   00:00 Introduction to Gestational Diabetes 01:27 Meet Our Expert Guest: Melissa Chappell 02:33 Understanding Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) 03:03 Testing and Alternatives for Gestational Diabetes 03:53 Impact of Gestational Diabetes on Mother and Baby 10:16 Historical Perspective and Current Statistics 12:42 Challenges with Current Testing Methods 16:26 Managing Gestational Diabetes: Diet and Monitoring 24:07 Risks and Misconceptions about Big Babies 31:37 Pitocin Use and Its Implications 39:13 Increased Medical Interventions in Pregnancy 40:17 The Impact of Glucose Restriction on Babies 42:31 Research Findings on Blood Glucose Thresholds 44:24 Managing Gestational Diabetes with Diet and Exercise 48:50 Alternative Testing Methods for Gestational Diabetes 01:00:06 Understanding HbA1c and Its Limitations 01:08:04 Postpartum Care for Babies of Gestational Diabetic Mothers 01:12:42 Connecting with Melissa and Doula Training Opportunities 01:14:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts   Guest Bio: Melissa Chappell, LDEM, CPM is a midwife and owner of two birth centers in Utah, and as well is a doula trainer of over 22 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 is the mother of 4 children and 4 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 Melissa on IG  Connect with Melissa and her daughter on YouTube!  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: Lily Nichols: Real Food in Pregnancy    Use code HeHe to sign up for doula education and 25% off the Birth Education Library with Melissa at https://www.melissachappell.com/   RESEARCH: https://www.cochranelibrary.com/web/cochrane/content?templateType=full&urlTitle=/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD012394.pub3&doi=10.1002/14651858.CD012394.pub3&type=cdsr&contentLanguage=   https://bmcpregnancychildbirth.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12884-023-05779-z   Gestational diabetes and the risk of late stillbirth: a case-control study from England, UK - PubMed   https://www.cochranelibrary.com/web/cochrane/content?templateType=full&urlTitle=/cdsr/doi/10.1002/14651858.CD011624.pub3&doi=10.1002/14651858.CD011624.pub3&type=cdsr&contentLanguage=   Big Babies: the risk of care provider fear | Dr Rachel Reed  

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• Ep. 354: Managing MCAS Naturally: Insights from Integrative Health Practitioner Heather Oricchio on Mast Cell Activation Syndrome

  Welcome back to another episode of The Birth Lounge podcast! In this episode, we dive deep into managing and healing symptoms of Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and histamine intolerance. Host HeHe is joined by Heather Oricchio, an integrative health practitioner specializing in gut health, detoxification, hormone balancing, and holistic healing. Heather shares her personal journey with MCAS, exploring topics like the role of gut health, the impact of sleep and diet, nervous system regulation, and natural therapies such as lymphatic drainage, castor oil packs, and red light therapy. They discuss the importance of addressing environmental factors like mold, parasites, and EMFs and dive into personalized care plans for those experiencing MCAS. Heather also provides practical advice on supplements, probiotics, and gentle exercise for MCAS sufferers, along with her holistic approach for achieving remission.   00:55 Exploring Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) 01:33 Introducing Heather Oricchio 02:13 Heather's Personal Journey with MCAS 03:05 Understanding MCAS Symptoms and Triggers 04:16 Heather's Approach to Healing MCAS 06:03 Heather Explains MCAS in Detail 07:49 Challenges in Diagnosing MCAS 08:50 The Rise of Histamine and Mast Cell Issues 09:41 Personal Stories and Symptoms 14:34 The Role of Genetics and Environment 17:41 Nervous System Regulation and Healing 25:06 Morning Routines for MCAS Management 29:58 Trendy Foods and MCAS 32:01 Exercise and MCAS 35:42 Hormones and MCAS 38:35 Exploring MCAS and Infertility 39:12 Personal Fears and Fertility Journey 40:30 Hormonal Fluctuations and Histamine 41:30 Environmental and Emotional Triggers 41:59 Tracking Symptoms and Estrogen Dominance 44:03 Lymphatic Drainage and Detox Practices 46:00 Gut Health, Mold, and Mycotoxins 49:41 The Importance of Sleep and Circadian Rhythm 52:57 Supplements and Probiotics for MCAS 57:55 Heather's Healing Journey 01:01:00 Coffee Enemas and Detoxification 01:05:52 Genetic Factors and MCAS 01:07:36 Connecting with Heather and Final Thoughts Guest Bio: Heather Oricchio knows firsthand how frustrating it is to feel trapped by your own body. After struggling with histamine intolerance for years, she made it her mission to find real, lasting relief—and now she helps others to do the same. As an Integrative Health Practitioner, she specializes in histamine intolerance/ Mast Cell Activation Disorder with a strong focus on gut health, detoxification and hormone balancing, guiding women to heal naturally so they can feel like themselves again. Her approach honors the body’s natural wisdom to heal—when we stop fighting it and start giving it the right support to not just reverse symptoms but to truly thrive. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with Heather 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.revivewithheather.com/mast-cell-recovery-program   Proper Dry Brushing with Kelly Kennedy

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