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Pregnancy is just the beginning - but who’s helping you prepare for life after birth? The Postpartum Prep Podcast guides expecting and new moms into motherhood with confidence and support.
Hosted by postpartum doula Ceridwen | https://motherbabywellbeing.com
The podcast offers evidence-based insight and compassionate conversations on the journey from birth, through the fourth trimester, and beyond.
Topics include: postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, newborn sleep, maternal mental health, identity shifts, and building your support system - so life after birth feels smoother, more nourishing
Hosted by postpartum doula Ceridwen | https://motherbabywellbeing.com
The podcast offers evidence-based insight and compassionate conversations on the journey from birth, through the fourth trimester, and beyond.
Topics include: postpartum recovery, breastfeeding, newborn sleep, maternal mental health, identity shifts, and building your support system - so life after birth feels smoother, more nourishing
34 Episodes
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What should dads actually be doing during postpartum?In this episode of The Postpartum Prep Podcast, I’m joined by Antonio of @WawaLifter — a babywearing educator from Peru who advocates for active, nurturing fatherhood — to talk about how new dads can organize postpartum chores, cleaning, and daily routines in a way that truly supports the mother-baby dyad.We cover:• Why fathers are not observers, but active participants in postpartum• How to organize household chores before baby arrives• The difference between personal, shared, and team tasks• Simple systems for reducing stress and decision fatigue• Budget organization during postpartum• Meal prepping for short paternity leave• How to prevent unnecessary arguments about chores• Why embracing a little chaos is part of the process• The mental health benefits of community support after birthIf you're expecting a baby and wondering how to divide responsibilities during maternity leave or paternity leave, then this episode will help you prepare intentionally.Because postpartum recovery isn’t just about the mother. It’s about how the whole family shows up to protect the mom-baby connection.🎧 Be sure to also check out Antonio's full episode on babywearing for dads.Connect with Antonio on Instagram @wawalifterPostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYouTubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
Can dads babywear? And how can fathers truly support postpartum recovery?In this episode of The Postpartum Prep Podcast, I’m joined by Antonio of @wawalifter — babywearing educator and father from Peru — for a powerful conversation about babywearing for dads, postpartum support, and how fathers can build deep connection with their newborns from day one.We talk about:How babywearing supports postpartum recovery for momsWhy dads’ oxytocin and bonding matterHow babywearing builds fatherly intuition and confidenceWhen to get started with babywearing (hint: during pregnancy!)How to choose the right newborn carrierWhy feeding isn’t the only way to bond with your babyCultural differences between parenting in Peru vs. the U.S.Community care, co-sleeping, and collective postpartum supportWhy “detachment” has become a modern industryAntonio shares how traditional babywearing in Peru is simply called “carrying your baby,” and how intuition, community, and connection are still central to parenting in many South American cultures.If you're preparing for postpartum and wondering how dads can be more involved, how to organize support, or how to strengthen the father-baby bond — this episode will give you both practical insight and a powerful mindset shift.Whether you're an expecting parent, a new dad, or a mom wanting more support after birth, this conversation will help you think more intentionally about postpartum life.🎧 Be sure to also listen to our Q&A episode on organizing postpartum chores and responsibilities for new dads.Connect with Antonio on Instagram @wawalifterPostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYouTubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
Navigating the early weeks of parenthood can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. In this episode of the Postpartum Prep Podcast, I’m joined by Amy Brown, Professor of Maternal and Child Health at Swansea University, to answer all your questions about postpartum support and building a postpartum village.Amy has spent over 20 years researching how first-time moms and new parents can get the new parent support and baby care support they need while caring for their baby. She shares practical, real-world strategies for building community after baby, even if your family isn’t nearby, and explains why having the right people around you can make a huge difference for your postpartum wellbeing.In this episode, we cover:What a postpartum support network actually is and why it’s essential.How to build a support network from scratch, especially if you’ve moved away from family or friends.The importance of shared experiences and finding people who “get” your parenting choices.Social and systemic ways communities, businesses, and governments can better support new parents.Tips for connecting with local baby groups, online communities, and like-minded parents.Breastfeeding support and other practical ways to find people who understand your parenting journey.Amy also shares personal stories from her early days as a new mom, highlighting the power of connection and community, and practical ideas for finding your people - think coffee shops, baby groups, and even themed social events.Whether you’re a first-time mom feeling isolated or just looking to expand your postpartum village, this episode is packed with actionable insights, evidence-based research, and reassurance that you don’t have to navigate parenthood alone.💌 Want to submit a question for a future Q&A episode? Subscribe to my email list and get your free Postpartum Prep Checklist. I share Q&A topics in my newsletter, and your question could be featured in the next episode!Amy's linksInstagramWebsitePostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYoutubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
Are strict baby sleep routines actually helpful? Or are they just increasing stress, feeding challenges, and self-doubt for new parents?In this episode of the Postpartum Prep Podcast, I’m joined by Professor Amy Brown, a leading maternal and child public health researcher at Swansea University and one of the most influential voices in infant feeding, breastfeeding support, and perinatal mental health.Professor Amy Brown directs the Lactation, Infant Feeding and Translational Research Centre and has spent over 20 years researching breastfeeding, infant feeding, parental anxiety, baby sleep, and the cultural pressures placed on new mothers. She has published more than 150 peer-reviewed research papers, contributed to global infant feeding policy, and authored several widely respected books for parents and professionals.In this conversation, we explore what the research actually says about strict infant routines and schedules - the kind often promoted in popular baby sleep books and online programs - and whether they truly support babies and parents.In this episode, we discuss:What “strict infant routines” really mean (and how they differ from responsive rhythms)Why so many baby books promote rigid schedules for feeding and sleepWhat Amy’s research found about parents who try to follow strict baby routinesWhether routine-based baby books actually work in real lifeHow strict feeding and sleep schedules can impact breastfeeding successThe link between rigid routines, maternal anxiety, and early feeding challengesWhy normal infant behavior is often framed as a “problem”How parents internalize blame when their baby doesn’t follow a scheduleThe emotional toll of being told your baby needs “fixing”Why responsive feeding and baby-led care are biologically normalHow pressure to create a “good baby” can undermine parental confidenceWe also dive into the idea of informed choice, a core theme of Amy’s book Informed is Best. Rather than telling parents what they should do, Amy explains how parents can:Evaluate baby sleep and feeding advice more criticallyIdentify biased or commercially driven informationUnderstand how research is often misrepresented in headlinesMake decisions that align with their baby’s needs, their values, and their real-life circumstancesFeel more grounded and confident - even when things feel hardThis episode is especially supportive for:Expecting parents preparing for life after birthNew mums feeling overwhelmed by baby sleep adviceParents navigating feeding challenges or breastfeeding difficultiesAnyone feeling anxious because their baby doesn’t fit a “schedule”Professionals supporting postpartum families🎧 Be sure to listen to episode 30, our follow-up Q&A episode, where Professor Amy Brown answers questions about building a postpartum support system - even if you don’t have family nearby - and how communities and systems can better support mothers and babies.If this episode resonated with you, please follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with another parent who might need reassurance that they’re not doing anything wrong - they’re caring for a very normal baby.Amy's linksInstagramWebsitePostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYoutubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
Preparing for postpartum isn’t just about baby gear and birth plans - it’s also about preparing mentally for one of the biggest identity shifts of your life.In this episode of the Postpartum Prep Podcast, Ceridwen is joined by maternal mental health therapist and neuroscience-based infant sleep specialist Gabrielle Ferrara for a deeply grounding conversation on how to prepare emotionally and mentally for life after birth.Together, they explore what expecting mothers really need to know about postpartum mental health - including identity changes, sleep deprivation, and postpartum depression - through a compassionate, non-pathologizing lens that centers support, connection, and biologically normal infant behavior.This episode is especially for pregnant mothers who feel excited about motherhood and nervous about losing themselves, struggling with sleep, or worrying about their mental health after birth.In this episode, we cover:How to mentally prepare for the identity shift into motherhoodWhy “losing yourself” isn’t the full story - and how to bring your core values into motherhoodHow to cope with newborn sleep deprivation without changing your baby’s sleepPractical, nervous-system-supportive strategies to protect maternal sleepThe relationship between postpartum depression and lack of supportWhat actually helps prevent postpartum mood disordersWhy support, boundaries, and being vocal about your needs matter - before baby arrivesGabrielle brings both professional expertise and lived experience as a mother, offering reassurance that postpartum mental health struggles are not a personal failure - and that meaningful support can make all the difference.✨ If you’re pregnant and preparing for postpartum, this episode will help you feel more grounded, informed, and supported as you step into motherhood.🎧 Be sure to also listen to Gabrielle's full episode, where we dive deeper into biologically normal infant sleep.Listen to Episode 27: Why Babies Want to Sleep Close | Baby Sleep & Bedsharing ExplainedGabrielle's linksInstagramWebsitePostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYoutubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
Why do so many babies struggle to sleep alone — even when parents plan not to bed share? And why does closeness feel so instinctive for both mothers and babies?In this episode of the Postpartum Prep Podcast, Ceridwen is joined by Gabrielle Ferrara, nurture neuroscience practitioner and perinatal mental health therapist, to explore the biology, neuroscience, and emotional foundations of infant sleep. Together, they unpack why sleeping close to a caregiver is not a “bad habit,” but a biologically normal expectation for human babies.This conversation builds on our previous episode about why families end up bed sharing, adding scientific context around nervous system regulation, extero-gestation, breastfeeding, and infant brain development.In this episode, we discuss:Why human babies are wired to sleep close to their caregiversWhat extero-gestation means and how it shapes infant sleepThe neuroscience of co-regulation and why babies “borrow” our nervous systemsThe difference between co-sleeping and bed sharingHow bed sharing can be practiced more safely using the Safe Sleep SevenWhy “self-soothing” is widely misunderstood — and what babies are actually capable ofCommon baby sleep myths, including “drowsy but awake” and “bad sleep habits”Why frequent night waking is biologically normal in the first yearsHow closeness and responsiveness support long-term emotional wellbeingThe impact of infant sleep expectations on maternal mental health and confidenceThis episode is especially valuable for pregnant parents, new mothers, and anyone questioning mainstream sleep advice. Rather than prescribing rigid rules, it offers understanding, perspective, and evidence-based reassurance — empowering you to trust your baby and your instincts.🎧 If you’re navigating infant sleep, bed sharing, or feeling conflicted about what you’ve been told, this episode offers a grounded, compassionate lens on what babies truly need.Keywords: baby sleep, infant sleep science, co-sleeping, bed sharing, safe sleep seven, postpartum sleep, nurture neuroscience, infant mental health, breastfeeding and sleep, normal baby sleep, maternal mental health, postpartum preparationGabrielle's linksInstagramWebsitePostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYoutubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
If you're currently pregnant, you might assume you'll never co-sleep or bedshare. Maybe you've heard that the only option is for babies to sleep in a crib. But in reality, most families do end up co-sleeping at some point, often unintentionally.In this episode of the Postpartum Prep Podcast, we’re talking about why families co-sleep, why so many parents change their minds after birth, and why knowing bed sharing safety guidelines matters - even if you think you’ll never need them.This episode is crowdsourced from real mothers who share honest reflections on why they began bed sharing: exhaustion, breastfeeding, frequent night waking, postpartum anxiety, sensitive sleepers, illness, travel, and the deep biological pull to keep their babies close. Most of these parents never planned to co-sleep - but found it became the safest, most sustainable option for their family.We also explore:Why accidental co-sleeping is so commonHow fear-based sleep messaging can increase riskWhy intentional, informed bed sharing is safer than unplanned co-sleepingThe difference between co-sleeping and bedsharingHow infant biology, attachment, and nervous system regulation influence sleepWhy closeness can support both baby sleep and maternal mental healthCommon situations where non-bed-sharing families often end up co-sleeping (newborn nights, illness, teething, travel)You’ll hear reflections on:Breastfeeding and night wakingPostpartum anxiety and sleep deprivationWhy many babies won’t settle alone — and why that’s normalHow co-sleeping can feel regulating, grounding, and instinctiveLetting go of unrealistic expectations around infant independenceThis episode is not about convincing you to bed share. It’s about helping you make an informed, prepared choice. If co-sleeping ever happens (intentionally or accidentally), you should know how to reduce risks and prioritize safety.Be sure to also check out Episode 19: Baby Sleep Safety GuidelinesIf you’re pregnant, newly postpartum, breastfeeding, or overwhelmed by conflicting advice about baby sleep, this episode offers context, reassurance, and real-life insight - without judgment.🎧 Topics include:Infant sleep | Newborn sleep | Co-sleeping | Bed sharing | Breastfeeding at night | Postpartum mental health | Safe sleep | Attachment-based parenting | Infant development | Accidental co-sleepingIf this episode resonates, please follow the podcast, leave a review, or share it with another expecting or new parent. Your support helps keep this podcast free, accessible, and rooted in connection-centered care.Thank you to Sleepy Starts for sponsoring this episode.Postpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYoutubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
Is babywearing always safe? When should you not babywear? What if you have a plus-size body or a baby with medical considerations?In this Q&A episode of the Postpartum Prep Podcast, I’m joined by babywearing consultant Jaclyn Fiedler to answer some of the most common - and important - questions parents have about babywearing.We talk about when babywearing may not be appropriate, how to think about safety and medical clearance, and why support from a professional can make all the difference - especially for preterm babies or babies with specific needs. Jaclyn also shares what to look for when choosing a newborn carrier, including fabric considerations and why secondhand carriers can actually be a better option than buying new.We also explore body inclusivity in babywearing, addressing whether babywearing works for plus-size bodies (spoiler: it absolutely can), and how modern carriers are evolving to better support diverse bodies and needs.Finally, Jaclyn reflects on early motherhood, offering a deeply grounding reminder for pregnant parents about letting go of expectations and honoring the sacred, messy, transformative reality of life with a new baby.If you’re pregnant, preparing for postpartum, or planning to babywear your newborn, this episode will help you feel more informed, empowered, and connected to the long lineage of parents who have carried their babies close.✨ Be sure to also listen to our full babywearing episode (E24) for a deeper dive into benefits, safety tips, and getting started. Check out episode 24 here.Find Jaclyn on Instagram @your.babywearing.bestieJaclyn's free babywearing fit check guidePostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYoutubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
If you’re pregnant and preparing for life after birth, babywearing is one of the most supportive tools you can learn before your baby arrives.In this episode of The Postpartum Prep Podcast, I’m joined by Jacqueline Fiedler, certified babywearing consultant and founder of Your Babywearing Bestie, for a deeply grounding conversation about babywearing for pregnant moms - what it is, why it matters, and how it supports both you and your baby in the early postpartum weeks.We talk about babywearing not just as a practical tool, but as a powerful way to support postpartum healing, nervous system regulation, and the mother-baby bond - while also making everyday life with a newborn more manageable.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why babywearing is biologically normal and especially supportive in the newborn periodHow babywearing supports postpartum recovery, mental health, and bondingCommon myths about “spoiling” your baby - and why holding your baby mattersWhat pregnant moms should know before choosing their first baby carrierBabywearing safety basics every expecting parent should understandHow to think about baby carriers based on your unique postpartum realityWhether you’re pregnant with your first baby or preparing for another postpartum season, this episode will help you see babywearing as an intentional, supportive part of your postpartum plan - rather than something you figure out once you’re already overwhelmed.✨ Perfect for: pregnant moms, expecting parents, first-time moms, and anyone preparing for postpartum life.If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with another pregnant mama who’s preparing for life after birth.Find Jaclyn on Instagram @your.babywearing.bestieJaclyn's free babywearing fit check guidePostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYoutubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
In this episode of the Postpartum Prep Podcast, Ceridwen is joined by doula and biological infant sleep educator Claire Fagan to explore how pregnant moms can set up their homes in ways that truly support the motherbaby dyad.Preparing for postpartum starts long before your baby arrives. Creating a baby-friendly environment can make those early weeks feel more intuitive, connected, and calm. This episode is all about creating a supportive postpartum environment - without getting overwhelmed or buying unnecessary gear.We cover:✨ Lighting for newborns:Do babies really need pitch-black rooms for every nap? Claire walks us through what newborn circadian rhythm actually looks like, why deep darkness isn’t necessary in the early months, and how simple light cues in your home can gently support your baby’s long-term sleep patterns.✨ Normal noise vs. quiet house:Should your newborn nap in silence, or is daily household noise okay? We talk about why typical daytime sound can be helpful, how “taking the edge off” aligns with biological sleep patterns, and how avoiding rigid nap rules can help you stay connected - to your baby and to your life.✨ Newborn safety without overdoing it:What does a newborn actually need to be safe at home? Claire shares an attuned perspective rooted in connection: the safest place for a newborn is close to you. We discuss how to set up your space to make closeness comfortable and sustainable for both of you, without falling into pressure to buy every safety product on the market.✨ Setting up your bedroom for easier night feeds:Night feeds were designed to be simple. Learn how to arrange your sleep space to support easier breastfeeding or bottle-feeding overnight, how to minimize disruption to your circadian rhythm, and why keeping your baby close aligns with biological norms and supports better rest for everyone.Throughout the episode, we highlight how preparing your environment during pregnancy can support a smoother fourth trimester. At the heart, it's about centering connection, ease, and intentional choices.If you're currently pregnant and wondering how to set up your home for those early postpartum weeks, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and a deeply grounded understanding of what your newborn truly needs. Tune in and learn how to create a calm, baby-friendly postpartum environment that supports both you and your newborn.🧡 Want to submit a question for an upcoming Q&A episode?Subscribe to Ceridwen’s email newsletter! Inside, you'll get notified about upcoming Q&A topics so you can send in your questions. Sign up here and you'll also receive a free postpartum prep checklist!Listen next...Claire's main episode 👇Episode 22: Preparing for a Connected, Nourishing Start to Life With Your Newborn | The Regenerative Paradigm for PostpartumBaby sleep safety 👇Episode 19: Baby Sleep Safety Guidelines | What Every Expecting Mom Should Know Before Welcoming a NewbornClaire's linksInstagramWebsitePostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYoutubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
In this episode, Ceridwen sits down with postpartum and birth doula, biological infant sleep educator, and mother Claire Fagan, founder of Regenerative Motherhood. Together they explore what new parents truly need in the early weeks and why so many common struggles come from cultural expectations - not parental failure.Claire shares how becoming a mother transformed her approach to postpartum care and deepened her work in biological infant sleep. She and Ceridwen unpack the gap between what parents are told to expect and what babies are biologically designed for: closeness, co-regulation, frequent waking, and responsive care. They discuss why night-time care matters just as much as daytime nurture, and how babies rely on connection for nervous system regulation and optimal development.You’ll hear about Claire’s new framework, The Regenerative Motherhood Paradigm, which helps mothers tune out cultural noise and reconnect with their own instincts. Built on six foundations - working with nature, honoring nuance, mutual nourishment, connection, embracing change, and recognizing broader impact - it offers a compassionate, empowering way to approach postpartum and baby care.Using the metaphor of a regenerative garden, Ceridwen and Claire highlight how individualized, attuned care creates ripple effects of wellbeing for mothers, babies, and communities. They also explore how systemic pressures shape modern motherhood, and why parents often blame themselves for challenges rooted in wider cultural conditions.The conversation covers:What’s biologically normal for newborn sleepWhy crying is communication, not manipulationHow responsiveness supports regulation and bondingMutual nourishment and the motherbaby connectionTools like SNS and paced bottle feeding that support breastfeeding and closenessHow connection is the foundation of postpartum wellbeingThis episode is for anyone preparing for postpartum, navigating early motherhood, or wanting a more grounded, nature-aligned perspective on newborn sleep, postpartum support, and intuitive mothering.Claire's linksInstagramWebsitePostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYoutubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
So many pregnant moms spend months preparing for birth… only to realize afterward that the real learning curve begins after the baby arrives. In this episode of the Postpartum Prep Podcast, Ceridwen—postpartum doula, lactation counselor, gentle sleep practitioner, and your guide to intentional mothering—shares a powerful reminder of why postpartum prep matters just as much as birth prep (if not more!).Drawing from conversations with pregnant moms, her own first-time experience, and what she sees every day in her work supporting families, Ceridwen unpacks:✨ Why preparing for life after birth can reduce overwhelm and support a smoother, more connected postpartum✨ The most common surprises new parents face in the early weeks✨ What she wishes she had known about baby sleep, breastfeeding, and the mental load of motherhood✨ How postpartum affects your identity, your partnership, and your wellbeing✨ A revealing Instagram poll where 0% of experienced moms said birth prep mattered more than postpartum prep✨ Why connection—with yourself and with your baby—is the foundation of a supported postpartumIf you’re pregnant and feeling pulled toward birth prep while unintentionally pushing postpartum planning aside, this episode will meet you with compassion, clarity, and encouragement. You can prepare for this next chapter in a way that feels grounded, intuitive, and intentional—without adding more overwhelm to your plate.Ceridwen also shares a free resource she created to make postpartum prep easier:➡️ The free Postpartum Prep Checklist, based on the same template she uses with her doula clients. It includes a comprehensive postpartum plan, emotional wellbeing considerations, support systems, newborn care prep, and more—all designed to help you enter postpartum with confidence and clarity.Whether you’re preparing for breastfeeding, newborn sleep, your mental health, or simply adjusting to this brand new season of life, this episode is a gentle reminder that you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Your future self—and your baby—will thank you for starting now.LISTEN FOR:• A realistic look at what the early postpartum weeks are actually like• Practical mindset shifts to help you feel more prepared• Why postpartum planning supports baby’s wellbeing, too• Encouragement for trusting yourself as a new mom• Tools to help you create a postpartum plan that feels aligned with your valuesIf you find this episode helpful, please share it with another pregnant mama and leave a review—it truly helps the podcast grow and reach more moms who need this support.Free Postpartum Prep ChecklistTip JarInstagramPinteresthttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
In this episode of the Postpartum Prep Podcast, Ceridwen sits down again with Katie from Sleepy Starts to answer real listener questions about preparing for newborn sleep.If you haven’t listened to the full episode released right before this one—Baby Sleep Safety Guidelines—add it to your queue next. That episode lays the foundation for everything you’ll hear today, especially around what's normal for baby sleep and why babies like to be held while sleeping.Today, we dive into some common concerns expecting moms have about newborn sleep:1. Should I do an eat play sleep routine with my baby?Katie shares why this popular routine is rooted in sleep-training culture, how it often pulls parents out of tune with their baby’s true needs, and why feeding and sleep are biologically linked—especially for breastfeeding dyads. Ceridwen adds a lactation lens, explaining how feeding on demand supports milk supply and strengthens motherbaby connection.2. Will contact napping create "bad habits" for when I go back to work?We discuss what contact napping really is, why it’s normal for babies to want to sleep on a caregiver, and how to prepare for future childcare without sacrificing the closeness that supports regulation, bonding, and safe sleep. Katie breaks down “matchmaking childcare,” secondary attachment figures, and how temperament (orchid vs. dandelion babies) influences transitions. You’ll also learn why babies often nap totally differently with other caregivers - and why that’s not a sign you did anything wrong.3. How do I prepare for newborn sleep when I'm already bedsharing with a toddler?Katie walks through practical, safe options for families welcoming a new baby while supporting a bedsharing toddler—whether that means adjusting sleep positions, adding a separate toddler sleep surface, or gently shifting a toddler into their own space with attachment-preserving transitions. We cover the cuddle-curl cosleeping position, safe separation between toddlers and newborns, temperament considerations, and the crucial role of support people during this major shift.If you’re pregnant or preparing for postpartum and wondering how to navigate newborn sleep in a way that protects bonding, supports breastfeeding, and honors both your baby’s needs and your own - this episode is for you.Find Katie's resources at sleepystarts.com or on Instagram @sleepystarts.About today’s guest: Katie Fridge is a certified Baby-Led Sleep & Well-Being Specialist and mom who helps families find rest without sacrificing connection. Through her business, Sleepy Starts, she supports parents in understanding normal infant sleep, promoting healthy brain development, and addressing root causes to sleep challenges. Katie’s attachment-focused approach empowers families to create safe, responsive sleep environments while strengthening the parent-child bond and fostering confidence in the early years.Katie's linksInstagramBlogFree Bedsharing GuideFree StretchesChest Sleeping GuideThe Connected Sleep Foundations BundleSleep & Development ToolkitThe Postpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinteresthttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/SHOW NOTESGet 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGThank you for joining us on the Postpartum Prep Podcast. If you found this episode helpful, please share it with a pregnant friend, and be sure to leave a review!
Newborn sleep can feel confusing, overwhelming, and honestly… nothing like what most parents expect. In this episode of The Postpartum Prep Podcast, Ceridwen is joined by Katie Fridge from Sleepy Starts to break down the realities of newborn sleep and the latest evidence-based baby sleep safety guidelines - so you can make intentional, informed choices that support your baby’s wellbeing and your own nervous system.Together, we explore what’s biologically normal for newborn sleep, why babies wake so often, and how feeding, attachment, and nighttime safety fit together in the early weeks and months. This conversation offers a compassionate, nuanced look at sleep safety recommendations, including crib use, roomsharing, and bedsharing - without fear tactics or judgment.In this episode, we cover:What to expect from normal newborn sleep patternsWhy babies wake frequently (and why that’s protective)Up-to-date baby sleep safety guidelinesHow feeding and sleep work together in the fourth trimesterCurrent recommendations for cribs, bassinets, and bedsharing safetyThe difference between SIDS and SUIDHow the sleep surface and environment influence riskSocio-economic and equity issues surrounding sleep safetyWhen not to bedshareOptions for roomsharing, contact sleep, bedsharing, and responsive nighttime careWhy keeping your baby close supports their brain and nervous system developmentWhether you're pregnant and prepping for those first nights, or already navigating newborn sleep and looking for clarity, this episode offers grounded, evidence-informed information with an emphasis on supporting connection and wellbeing for both mothers and babies.Our goal is to help you explore your options, understand the guidelines, and make choices that feel intentional, aligned, and supportive for your unique family.About today’s guest:Katie Fridge is a certified Baby-Led Sleep & Well-Being Specialist and mom who helps families find rest without sacrificing connection. Through her business, Sleepy Starts, she supports parents in understanding normal infant sleep, promoting healthy brain development, and addressing root causes to sleep challenges. Katie’s attachment-focused approach empowers families to create safe, responsive sleep environments while strengthening the parent-child bond and fostering confidence in the early years.If you’ve been wondering how to safely care for your baby at night - whether you’re interested in roomsharing, contact napping, or curious about what safe bedsharing actually looks like - you’ll walk away from this conversation feeling informed, validated, and empowered.Tune in for a grounded, judgment-free conversation that brings together science, safety, and the heart of motherbaby connection.Katie's linksInstagramBlogFree Bedsharing GuideFree StretchesChest Sleeping GuideThe Connected Sleep Foundations BundleSleep & Development ToolkitPostpartum Prep PodcastFree Postpartum Prep ChecklistInstagramPinterestYoutubeFacebookTip Jarhttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
So many pregnant women wonder: What if my family disagrees with how I want to raise my baby? Maybe you worry they’ll think you’re too crunchy, too gentle, too strict, too intuitive, too informed… or that your choices about sleep, feeding, breastfeeding, babywearing, or connection will be misunderstood or judged.In this episode, we explore what’s really underneath the fear of family disagreement — and why this anxiety becomes so intense during pregnancy, even before the baby arrives. If you’ve felt pressure to keep the peace, avoid conflict, not disappoint anyone, or not seem “dramatic,” you are not alone. So many expecting mothers carry old patterns of perfectionism, people-pleasing, emotional caretaking, or childhood wounds into their postpartum planning without realizing it.We talk about how this fear often has less to do with the actual parenting choice and more to do with deeper emotional layers:– The grief of not having had the kind of parent you want to become– The longing to be seen, understood, and supported– The fear of taking up space or being “too much”– The discomfort of setting limits with people you love– The worry that a different choice means you’re rejecting your own parents– The fear of hurting feelings or disappointing your partner’s familyYou’ll hear why these feelings are so normal, how pregnancy makes them louder, and how understanding your emotional safety needs can help you make grounded, intentional decisions for your motherbaby wellbeing.Inside the episode, we explore:🌿 Why fears about family disagreement appear before baby arrives🌿 How childhood roles (the people pleaser, the good girl) shape your confidence as a new mom🌿 Why loved ones may react defensively to gentle, connection-oriented parenting🌿 How to navigate differences with your partner without slipping into self-abandonment🌿 Why your parenting choices can trigger other people’s unresolved experiences🌿 How to protect your emotional safety while staying compassionate🌿 What to do when you’re afraid your decisions will disappoint your parents (especially your mother or mother-in-law)🌿 How to set boundaries without conflict, guilt, or over-explainingThis episode is not about convincing your family to agree with you. It’s about helping you feel steady, confident, and supported as you make choices aligned with your values, intuition, and the needs of your baby.If you’ve ever thought:• “What if they judge me?”• “What if I upset someone?”• “What if they think I’m doing it wrong?”• “What if my partner’s parents don’t approve?”• “What if I lose their support?”…this conversation will help you understand what’s happening emotionally, why it feels so charged, and how to move forward with clarity and calm.The way you want to raise your baby matters. And you’re allowed to choose connection, gentleness, intuition, and intentional parenting - even if no one else in your family did it that way.Free Guide: Postpartum Prep PitfallsTip JarInstagramPinteresthttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
If you’re pregnant and already seeing ads for lactation cookies, teas, or “superfoods to boost your milk supply,” this episode is for you.In this week’s episode of The Postpartum Prep Podcast, host Ceridwen Farley, motherbaby wellbeing consultant and lactation counselor, takes a closer look at something called galactagogues—foods, herbs, supplements, or medications that are thought to increase breast milk supply.But this conversation might not go the way you expect. While galactagogues are often marketed to pregnant moms as an easy way to “boost supply,” Ceridwen shares why they’re actually the last thing she reaches for when supporting a parent with low milk supply. You’ll learn what a full milk supply really means (hint: it’s not a freezer full of milk), why most women can make enough milk, and why normalizing low milk supply can unintentionally cause more breastfeeding struggles—not fewer.You’ll also learn:What truly causes low milk supply (and why “just eat a cookie” isn’t the solution)The difference between primary and secondary low milk supplyWhy oversupply isn’t always a good thingHow the supply and demand cycle of milk production actually worksWhen to seek help from a lactation professional (and why timing matters!)If you’re preparing for breastfeeding and want to set yourself up for success, this episode will give you a clear, grounded understanding of how milk supply is established—and what actually helps support it after birth.Because when you understand how your body makes milk, you don’t need to rely on marketing myths. You can trust your body, your baby, and the incredible design of the motherbaby connection.🎧 Listen now to learn what every pregnant mom deserves to know about milk supply—before the cookies and teas ever enter the chat.If you found this episode helpful, please leave a review, and share with another mama who needs to hear this message!Free Guide: Postpartum Prep PitfallsTip JarInstagramPinteresthttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
Wondering what’s normal when it comes to baby sleep? This myth-busting episode helps pregnant and new moms understand what to really expect - from frequent night wakings to contact naps and “sleeping through the night” myths. Learn what’s biologically normal, what’s not, and how to feel more confident about your baby’s sleep.Share this episode with a mama who needs some reassurance that her baby's sleep is normal!Free Guide: Postpartum Prep PitfallsTip JarInstagramPinteresthttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
If you’re pregnant and wondering how to prepare for postpartum, this episode is for you!Learn what a smoother postpartum transition really means — and why preparing for life after birth is one of the most important things you can do before your baby arrives.You’ll learn what makes the difference between a chaotic and a calm fourth trimester, what realistic postpartum expectations look like, and three key foundations that help new moms feel more supported, rested, and confident after birth.✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:Why postpartum preparation matters (and how it impacts your recovery, mental health, and connection with your baby)The three foundations of a smoother postpartum transitionHow to set realistic expectations for the fourth trimesterSimple ways to prevent common postpartum challengesHow to build your postpartum support system before birthThis episode will help you feel grounded, informed, and emotionally ready to meet the postpartum period with intention.Free Guide: Postpartum Prep PitfallsInstagramPinteresthttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEING🎧 Listen next:Ep. 1 – Why Learning About Postpartum Before Birth MattersEp. 13 – The Four Types of Postpartum PrepEp. 14 – How to Create a Postpartum PlanSHOW NOTES
Get your free guide to Postpartum Prep Pitfalls (And How to Avoid Them) hereIn this week’s Q&A episode of The Postpartum Prep Podcast, host Ceridwen walks you through everything you need to know about creating your postpartum prep checklist — including what to include, what items are actually necessary, and how to prepare for recovery as a first-time mom.Ceridwen breaks down each key area to think about before birth:🌿 Building your professional and personal support network🍼 Planning for feeding and sleep💆♀️ Organizing self-care, meals, and household help💑 Strengthening your relationship and communication as new parents👶 Preparing for recovery, rest, and realistic expectations after birthShe also shares her honest take on popular postpartum products - from nursing pads and peri bottles to silicone breast pumps and nursing pillows - so you can focus on what truly supports your recovery (and skip the rest).If you’ve been wondering “What should I include in my postpartum checklist?” or “How do I prepare for postpartum recovery as a first-time mom?”, this episode is your step-by-step guide to starting life after birth with confidence, clarity, and calm.The Postpartum Prep Podcast is your go-to space for learning how to prepare for a smoother, more supported transition after birth - with practical insights, compassionate guidance, and holistic postpartum care in mind.InstagramPinteresthttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
Get your free guide to Postpartum Prep Pitfalls (And How to Avoid Them) herePreparing for life after birth is about so much more than buying baby gear. In this episode, Ceridwen shares four essential types of postpartum prep - from practical preparation and building your village to setting realistic expectations and doing the mindset work that helps you thrive in early motherhood. You’ll learn what most checklists miss, why emotional and relational preparation matter just as much as the practical side, and how to start feeling more confident and supported for life after birth.Whether you’re pregnant for the first time or you're planning your next postpartum experience, this episode will help you prepare intentionally - body, mind, and heart.Tune in to learn:How to prepare for life after birthThe four types of postpartum prep you really needWhy practical prep alone isn’t enoughThe role of realistic expectations & mindset in postpartum wellbeingPerfect for anyone wondering how to prepare for postpartum with intention and ease.InstagramPinteresthttps://motherbabywellbeing.com/Get 10% off nursing bras, breastfeeding clothes, and more from The Little Milk Bar with code MOTHERBABYWELLBEINGSHOW NOTES
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