The Birth Lounge Podcast

Hosted by HeHe Stewart

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448

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Jun 2026

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We’re exploring option from conception to childhood to help women take control of their fertility, birth experience, postpartum healing, and motherhood journey! This is a safe space for all parents to hear what the experts have to say and to hear from influencer parents and their take on parenthood! Join us for all things birth and parenthood for an empowering and educational walk with a birth and newborn expert and the found of Tranquility by HeHe Maternity Concierge, HeHe Stewart.

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June 12, 2026Episode 4601 hr 12 min

Ep. 458: How Birth Trauma Impacts Your Partner & Intimacy with Ashley Mariani [RECAST]

Father's Day Sale: June 14-16 If your partner wants to be more than the guy holding your Stanley cup during contractions, Dad Daze is for him. This childbirth and postpartum course teaches dads exactly how to support, advocate, and show up with confidence from pregnancy through postpartum. Use code DAD50 to save $50 at thebirthlounge.com/daddaze June 14th-16th only. *psst* If you decide a lifetime membership is for you, we won’t keep you from applying this discount code to get full access + our exclusive gift box. In this re-aired episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with perinatal therapist Ashley Mariani for a powerful conversation about birth trauma, obstetric violence, and the ways a difficult birth experience can ripple through your postpartum life long after you've left the hospital. Together, they unpack how birth trauma can impact trust, intimacy, communication, and emotional safety within a relationship. Ashley shares why so many partners leave a traumatic birth carrying their own unresolved stress response, how feelings of helplessness in the birth room can create resentment and disconnection, and why some couples find themselves struggling to reconnect after becoming parents. HeHe and Ashley also explore the mental load that often falls on mothers after birth, the common dynamic of feeling like you're parenting your partner, and why that can quickly erode desire and partnership. They discuss emotional attunement, advocacy during labor, and the important role partners play in helping prevent birth trauma before it happens. This conversation goes beyond the typical postpartum advice and dives into what it actually takes to rebuild trust, improve communication, and find your way back to each other after a challenging birth experience. If you've ever wondered whether your birth experience changed your relationship, your intimacy, or the way you show up as a couple, this episode will leave you feeling seen, validated, and equipped with practical tools for moving forward. 00:00 Birth Trauma Reality Check 01:22 Meet Ashley Mariani 07:40 Partners Preventing Trauma 09:40 Anecdotes vs Evidence 16:58 Pandemic Policies Fallout 21:19 When Intimacy Disappears 24:51 Dads Carry Trauma Too 30:18 Masculine Feminine Energy 33:03 Safety and Resentment Loop 34:39 Dad Daze Course Break 37:37 Patterns After Birth Trauma 38:32 Resentment Kills Desire 39:59 Man Child Dynamic 42:23 Initiation Into Manhood 53:48 Helicopter Parenting Fallout 57:09 Love Languages Learning Styles 58:47 Teach Needs By Style 01:04:07 Love Language Mismatch 01:07:02 Therapy Shared Accountability 01:09:44 Intimacy Resources Plug 01:11:16 Final Wrap And Outro Guest Bio: Ashley Mariani is a registered social worker specializing in perinatal mental health, couples therapy, sexual wellness, and birth trauma recovery. She is a passionate advocate against obstetric violence and helps individuals and couples navigate the emotional, relational, and physiological impacts of difficult birth experiences. Drawing from her background in sexuality, counseling, couples work, nervous system regulation, and holistic health, Ashley supports families in building resilience, healing trauma, and creating deeper connection in parenthood. She is also the mother of three free-spirited children, including twins. Connect with Ashley: https://mindonline.ca/ SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Ashley on IG: https://www.instagram.com/therogue.therapist/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

June 10, 2026Episode 45956 min

Ep. 457: Drowning Prevention: Essential Water Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know with Tyler Bradshaw, CWSI [RECAST]

Father's Day Sale: June 14-16 If your partner wants to be more than the guy holding your Stanley cup during contractions, Dad Daze is for him. This childbirth and postpartum course teaches dads exactly how to support, advocate, and show up with confidence from pregnancy through postpartum. Use code DAD50 to save $50 at thebirthlounge.com/daddaze June 14th-16th only. *psst* If you decide a lifetime membership is for you, we won’t keep you from applying this discount code to get full access + our exclusive gift box. As we head into another summer season, HeHe is bringing back one of the most important episodes in The Birth Lounge Podcast archive. Water safety is something she feels incredibly passionate about because drowning is often silent, fast, and far more common than most families realize. If you have children, spend time around pools, visit the beach, own a backyard pool, or simply want to be more prepared, this is information every caregiver needs to hear. In this re-aired episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with Tyler Bradshaw from Aqua-Tots Swim School for a conversation every parent, grandparent, and caregiver needs to hear. Because when it comes to water safety, most of us think it won't happen to our family... until it does. Together, they unpack the sobering realities of childhood drowning, including where it most commonly happens, why it often occurs when adults are nearby, and the simple mistakes that can turn a fun day around water into an emergency. Tyler shares the statistics every parent should know, explains the difference between fatal and non-fatal drowning incidents, and clears up common misconceptions about "dry drowning." HeHe and Tyler also dive into practical, actionable ways to reduce risk, including why designated water watchers matter, how distractions like phones can become dangerous around water, and the truth about puddle jumpers, floaties, and water wings. They discuss home pool safety, the best swimsuit colors for visibility, and what parents with multiple children can do to keep everyone safer during pool days. You'll also learn why swim lessons are about so much more than learning strokes, how early children can start building water safety skills, and what progression through swim lessons actually looks like from infancy through childhood. Whether you're heading into summer, planning pool days, vacationing near water, or simply wanting to be more prepared, this episode is packed with life-saving information that could make all the difference for your family. 00:00 Put the Phone Down 00:54 Partner as Birth Advocate 02:46 Father’s Day Dad Daze Deal 09:23 Why Water Safety Matters 13:10 Where Drowning Happens 15:05 Dry vs Nonfatal Drowning 17:30 Poolside Distractions 19:02 Water Watcher System 22:06 Floaties and False Security 26:22 Multiples and Home Pool Safety 32:17 Pool Alarms And Sensors 33:15 Highway Rule Pool Temptations 34:36 Fence Durability And Gate Safety 35:48 Why Swim Lessons Matter 39:31 Lesson Levels Skills And Wrap Up Guest Bio: Tyler Bradshaw is the owner of Aqua-Tots Swim School Norwood and a passionate advocate for childhood water safety and drowning prevention. Aqua-Tots is one of the largest providers of year-round swim instruction in the world, helping children as young as four months old build confidence and critical water safety skills. Through swim lessons, community outreach, and education, Tyler and the Aqua-Tots team are dedicated to helping families create safer experiences around water and empowering children with skills that can save lives. LINKS MENTIONED: Connect with Tyler at Norwood Aqua-Tots here! http://aqua-tots.com/norwood Find an Aqua-Tots near you! https://www.aqua-tots.com/ Social Media: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Aqua-Tots on IG: https://www.instagram.com/aquatotsofficial/ Connect with HeHe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@hehestewart BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app Key words: Water Safety, Drowning Prevention, Kids Swim Lessons, Swimming Tips for Parents, Water Safety Tips, Child Swim Lessons, Summer Safety Tips, Pool Safety Tips, Accident Prevention, Water Safety Month, Child Safety

June 5, 2026Episode 4581 hr 14 min

Ep. 456: Restorative Fertility: A Cutting-Edge Approach Mercier Therapy & Getting Real Answers with Jennifer Mercier

Holistic Fertility, “Unexplained Infertility,” and Mercier Therapy with Dr. Jen Mercier In this episode, HeHe sits down with fertility specialist, midwife, and creator of Mercier Therapy Dr. Jennifer Mercier for a powerful conversation about infertility, reproductive health, and why so many families are being told “everything looks normal” while still struggling to conceive. Together, they unpack the reality behind “unexplained infertility,” the labs and diagnostics that are often skipped in traditional fertility care, and why true fertility support has to look at the whole body—not just your ovaries. Dr. Mercier breaks down cycle-specific hormone testing, thyroid health, prolactin, semen analysis, endometriosis, C-section scar tissue, and the environmental factors impacting fertility rates today, from microplastics and endocrine disruptors to chronic stress and lifestyle exposures. HeHe and Dr. Mercier also dive into restorative reproductive medicine, NaPro approaches, and Mercier Therapy, Dr. Mercier’s pelvic visceral manipulation technique designed to support reproductive function and improve pelvic mobility. This episode is packed with practical education, hope, and empowering reminders that infertility care should never be one-size-fits-all. If you’ve ever felt dismissed, rushed toward IVF without answers, or frustrated by “normal” labs that don’t explain what’s happening in your body, this conversation is for you. 00:00 Non Toxic Registry 04:48 Meet Dr Jen Mercier 11:09 What Traditional Care Misses 22:15 Fertility Crisis Causes 39:07 Unexplained Infertility Roots 45:09 Seven Pregnancies Later 45:48 Joy of Later Motherhood 47:27 VBAC and Hospital Pressure 48:15 Why Doulas Matter 49:07 Mercier Therapy Explained 50:04 Documentaries and Premiere 54:41 Finding a Practitioner 58:05 Phones, Nature, and Ions 59:50 NAPRO and Systemic Issues 01:02:35 Microplastics Practical Swaps 01:09:47 Hope and Final Takeaways Guest Bio: Dr. Jennifer Mercier, ND, PhD, is a fertility specialist, midwife, and the creator of Mercier Therapy®, a pelvic visceral manipulation technique supporting reproductive health. With over 25 years of experience, she has helped hundreds of couples conceive naturally and has trained healthcare professionals worldwide. She is the author of Conceive and the filmmaker behind Fertility: The Shared Journey and Conceiving Miracles. Connect with Dr. Mercier: www.ExpectAMiracle.life SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Dr. Mercier on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.jennifer.mercier BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app LINKS MENTIONED: Check out the study by Shanna Swan here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9370524/

June 3, 2026Episode 4571 hr 34 min

Ep. 455: How to shape your baby’s entire life in their first 24 months with Violeta Gordeljevic

In this episode of The Birth Lounge Podcast, HeHe sits down with parenting science educator Violetta to unpack one of the biggest questions new parents face: how do you support your baby's development without falling into the trap of over-parenting? Together, they dive into what the research actually says about the first 12 to 24 months of life, including attachment, temperament, responsiveness, language development, and the everyday interactions that help shape a child's foundation. Violetta shares why so much parenting advice online misses the mark, how modern parenting culture often creates unnecessary pressure, and what parents really need to know about raising confident, securely attached children. HeHe and Violetta also explore the difference between being responsive and being overly responsive, how temperament influences the way children experience the world, and what secure attachment actually looks like across different ages and personalities. They discuss practical ways to support development during wake windows, encourage language and social skills, and build connection without feeling like you need to entertain your child every waking minute. The conversation wraps up with a thoughtful, research-informed discussion on daycare, sleep training, and the parenting decisions that often come with the most noise and judgment. If you've ever wondered how to support your baby's development without spiraling over every parenting choice, this episode is packed with evidence-based insights and reassurance. Timestamps / Chapters: 00:00 AI Parenting Misinformation 00:33 Birth Lounge App Advocacy 05:38 Episode Roadmap Attachment 11:53 Violeta Origin Story 23:00 Attunement First Two Years 29:12 Support Systems Colic 32:14 Attunement Vs Attachment 40:41 Temperament Goodness Fit 44:32 Attachment Styles Explained 47:58 Healthy Pushing Repair 51:32 Healing Through Repair 52:49 Mindful Home Swaps 56:17 Boys vs Girls Temperament 58:27 Language and Attention Foundations 01:13:11 Daycare Sleep Training Wrap Guest Bio: Violeta is a science communicator and the founder of The Parenting Class. She started her work after realizing that a lot of the research on early childhood development simply isn’t made accessible to parents—especially in the years that matter most. She believes that sharing this data in a clear, practical way can help raise healthier children and more thriving families. Connect with Violeta: https://www.the-parenting-class.com/ Get 10% off the entire Science of Parenting Babies Parenting Library which includes 13 areas of development from feeding, sleep and brain development over nutrition, daycare research, potty training, raising multilingual kids and more when you mention The Birth Lounge Podcast SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Violeta on IG: https://www.instagram.com/violeta.parenting.science/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

May 29, 2026Episode 4561 hr 14 min

Ep. 454: Understanding Placenta Health to Prevent Stillbirth with Dr. Heather Florescue, OBGYN (Re-air of Ep. 274)

In this re-aired episode, HeHe sits down with Dr. Heather Florescue for an incredibly important and deeply educational conversation about stillbirth prevention, placental health, and the warning signs families deserve to know during pregnancy. Together, they unpack why conversations around stillbirth are so often avoided, how education can empower—not scare—parents, and what proactive care can look like when we truly prioritize maternal and fetal health. Dr. Florescue explains the role of placental function in pregnancy outcomes, why estimated placental volume matters, and how recognizing changes in fetal movement and maternal intuition can be life-saving. She also shares current research, discusses risk factors that are often overlooked, and highlights protocols used in places like the UK and Australia that have helped reduce stillbirth rates through earlier intervention and better patient education. This episode is not about fear. It’s about informed awareness, advocacy, and helping families understand that paying attention to your body and your baby matters. If you’ve ever felt dismissed during pregnancy or wondered whether you were “overreacting” to a concern, this conversation is such an important reminder that your instincts deserve to be heard. Guest Bio: Dr. Florescue is an ob.gyn. in private practice at Women Gynecology and Childbirth Associates in Rochester, N.Y. She delivers babies at Highland Hospital in Rochester, NY. She received her medical degree at the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry, completed her internship and residency in obstetrics & gynecology at the University of Rochester Medical Center. She is certified by the American Congress of Obstetrics & Gynecology. She and her husband are parents to a set of triplets. Dr. Florescue is passionate about the prevention of pregnancy and infant loss and the care for families who suffer these terrible tragedies. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Dr. Florescue on IG: https://www.instagram.com/drflorescueobgyn/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app LINKS MENTIONED: Star Legacy Foundation: https://starlegacyfoundation.org/ Count the Kicks: https://countthekicks.org/ PUSH Pregnancy: https://www.pushpregnancy.org/ Tommys.org: https://www.tommys.org/pregnancy-information Saving Babies Lives Care Bundles: https://www.england.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Saving-Babies-Lives-Care-Bundle-Version-Two-Updated-Final-Version.pdf

May 27, 2026Episode 4551 hr 20 min

Ep. 453: Elimination Communication Explained: Potty Cues, Diaper-Free Babies & EC Tips w/ Andrea Olson

Today’s episode is brought to you by Two Pages Curtains. After struggling to find nursery curtains that were both beautiful and made with higher-quality materials, HeHe fell in love with their customizable cotton and linen styles for Saggy Boy’s nursery. Visit twopagescurtains.com and use code HEHE for exclusive savings on your favorite styles. In this episode, HeHe dives into one of the parenting topics that gets so many raised eyebrows… elimination communication (EC). 💩✨ After starting EC with her own baby around 8–9 weeks postpartum, HeHe shares how learning her baby’s potty cues actually helped her feel more confident, connected, and intuitive as a new mom—not less. She’s joined by EC educator and Andrea Olson, author of Go Diaper Free, to break down what elimination communication really is (hint: it’s not forcing a newborn to potty train). Andrea explains how babies naturally communicate their need to go, the simple “easy catches” parents can start with, and how EC can work in real life—even if you use disposable diapers, have multiple kids, travel often, or use daycare. Together, they unpack the history behind modern diaper culture, why potty training timelines shifted so dramatically over the last century, and how “Big Diaper” marketing changed the way parents think about infant toileting. They also discuss diaper rash, environmental impact, attachment, intuition, and how EC can reduce stress, save money, and strengthen communication between parent and baby. Whether you’re EC-curious or fully skeptical, this episode will absolutely make you rethink what’s “normal” when it comes to babies and diapers. Guest Bio: Andrea Olson is the author of Go Diaper Free and The Tiny Potty Training Book, and the world’s leading educator on elimination communication. A mom of six who practiced EC with every one of her babies, Andrea has helped over a million families tune into their baby’s cues and ditch diapers earlier than they ever thought possible. She’s passionate about restoring the gentle, intuitive potty wisdom that modern diaper culture has quietly replaced — and making it accessible for every family. she also owns TinyUndies.com where she sells natural super small undies, trainers, and potties. Connect with Andrea: Godiaperfree.com Get 25% off with code EASYSTART SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Andrea on IG: https://www.instagram.com/godiaperfree/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app LINKS MENTIONED: Baby language video: https://youtube.com/shorts/xNJlS3f70gk?si=j56LT6RPVpNyFjl5

May 22, 2026Episode 45320 min

Ep. 452: Membrane Sweeps, Bishop Scores & Advocating at Prenatal Visits Solocast with HeHe stewart (Reair of Ep. 268)

Inside The Birth Lounge Membership, HeHe recently taught a live deep dive on these exact topics—and new members get instant access to the replay library packed with evidence-based birth education and advocacy support. In this re-aired episode, HeHe breaks down one of the most common late-pregnancy questions: Should you get a membrane sweep? If you’re approaching your due date, feeling pressure about induction, or wondering whether a sweep is actually “natural,” this episode gives you the evidence-based, no-fear explanation you’ve been looking for. HeHe walks through exactly what a membrane sweep is, how it works, what it feels like, and whether it technically counts as a form of induction. She explains what providers often don’t tell parents about success rates, Bishop scores, VBAC safety, prodromal labor, and why going into labor isn’t the only way a sweep can still “work.” You’ll also learn the potential risks, what informed consent should sound like during prenatal visits, and how to advocate confidently if a provider is pushing interventions you’re unsure about. This episode is packed with practical education and real-world advocacy tools to help you make a decision that feels aligned for your body, your birth, and your goals—not just the hospital’s timeline. 💜 Want more support navigating cervical checks, membrane sweeps, Bishop scores, and induction conversations? Inside The Birth Lounge Membership, HeHe recently taught a live deep dive on these exact topics—and new members get instant access to the replay library packed with evidence-based birth education and advocacy support. 00:00 Advocacy Scripts Teaser 03:07 Welcome and Topic Setup 03:33 Membrane Sweep Basics 03:59 How It Works and Success Odds 06:27 What It Feels Like 07:08 After Effects and Warning Signs 07:54 Prodromal Labor Risk 09:29 Stacking Sweeps and Timing 10:45 Boosting Success With Bishop Score 14:01 Research, VBAC, and Final Pros Cons SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app

May 20, 2026Episode 4541 hr 40 min

Ep. 451: Medicaid coverage for doulas - is it really a good thing? with Leslie Moon

In this episode, HeHe sits down with Nebraska doula, childbirth educator, and birth photographer Leslie Moon for a nuanced conversation about Medicaid-covered doulas, birth equity, and the unintended consequences that can happen when community birth work becomes tied to insurance systems and hospital oversight. At first glance, Medicaid coverage for doulas sounds like a massive win—and in many ways, increased access to support absolutely matters. But HeHe and Leslie unpack the deeper concerns many doulas and birth workers are quietly asking behind the scenes: What happens when doulas become accountable to the system instead of the families they serve? Could regulation, certification, and insurance reimbursement slowly reshape doula work the same way it transformed midwifery care over time? Together, they dive into the realities of low reimbursement rates, hospital-employed doulas, licensure fears, and how profit-driven maternity care can directly conflict with relationship-based, autonomy-centered support. Leslie also shares what birth access looks like in Nebraska, where legal out-of-hospital birth options are extremely limited, and why protecting true community-based support matters now more than ever. This episode is thoughtful, spicy in the best way, and packed with bigger-picture conversations about autonomy, advocacy, informed consent, and the future of birth work. Whether you’re a doula, birth worker, or parent who cares about protecting individualized support in maternity care, this conversation will absolutely give you a lot to think about. Chapters: 00:00 Medicaid Doula Hype 01:37 Host Story and Credibility 07:00 Birth Lounge App Pitch 09:50 Medicaid Coverage Concerns 50:17 Regulation Risks and Community Fixes 55:02 Doula Stipend Proposal 01:00:58 Board Certification Debate 01:11:14 Flexner Report Origins 01:14:08 Insurance Strings Attached 01:29:53 Protecting Doulas Call Guest Bio: Leslie Moon is a single mom of 2, a birth doula, birth photographer, and childbirth educator based in Lincoln, Nebraska. She supports families locally with in-person birth support and documentation, and works with families nationwide to prepare for navigating hospital birth in a system that wasn’t designed for birth. She is the co-founder of The Birth Alchemy Course, where she teaches parents how to understand their options, advocate for themselves, and trust themselves throughout pregnancy and birth. Leslie is passionate about protecting relationship-based, community-centered care and helping families feel confident making decisions that align with their values Connect with Leslie: Novitabirthstories.com birthalchemycourse.com/birth-alchemy-course Listeners can get $100 off our childbirth prep series, the Birth Alchemy Course using code HEHE SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Leslie on IG: https://www.instagram.com/novitabirthstories Find Birth Alchemy on IG: https://www.instagram.com/birthalchemy_official/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/join Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app LINKS MENTIONED: Here’s a link to the full Flexner Report: http://archive.carnegiefoundation.org/publications/pdfs/elibrary/Carnegie_Flexner_Report.pdf

May 15, 2026Episode 45239 min

Ep. 450: Baby Bath Routine: How to Bathe Your Newborn Safely

In this episode, HeHe is officially back behind the mic after a five-month maternity leave… and she’s bringing a very special guest with her. 💜 Listeners get a sweet little podcast-exclusive audio moment from baby Saggy before HeHe dives into one of the most requested newborn topics: how to bathe your baby safely and confidently without turning it into an overwhelming production. She breaks down everything from how often newborns actually need baths (hint: it’s probably less than you think) to sponge baths before the umbilical cord falls off, ideal bath temperature, and why baths absolutely do not have to happen at night if that timing doesn’t work for your family. HeHe also walks through practical tips for keeping baby warm and calm, avoiding common safety mistakes, and setting yourself up with the right tools before you even turn the water on. This episode is packed with simple, evidence-based guidance to help new parents feel more relaxed and confident during those early newborn weeks. From washing all those adorable little baby rolls to mastering a quick post-bath routine before your baby decides they are personally offended by towels, HeHe’s got you covered. Baby Saggy and HeHe’s favorite bath tools: Primarily Pure baby soap: Use code HEHE to save here: https://primallypure.com/products/the-baby-kit Find more of her favorites in the registry guide: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/registry 00:00 Bath Safety First 00:51 Back From Maternity Leave 03:58 Why This Episode Matters 05:08 Bath Frequency and Timing 08:18 Water Temperature Basics 10:05 Keep Baby Warm and Quick 12:03 Ear Safety and Supervision 15:01 Bath Gear Checklist 28:09 Step by Step Newborn Bath 37:06 Wrap Up and Encouragement SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page

May 13, 2026Episode 4511 hr 12 min

Ep. 449: Orgasmic Birth with Tilly Storm

In this episode, HeHe sits down with somatics, sex, and intimacy coach Tilly Storm for a conversation that completely reframes what “orgasmic birth” actually means. Spoiler alert: we’re not talking about some performative movie-scene orgasm during labor. We’re talking about surrender, safety, primal energy, deep embodiment, and what can happen when a birthing person feels fully connected to their body instead of trapped in fear and tension. Tilly breaks down how cultural conditioning, fear-based birth narratives, and male-centered definitions of pleasure disconnect women from both birth and sexuality. She shares her own birth stories, including a fast and powerful unassisted freebirth and a second birth that included hospital care, PROM, breast-pump induction, and a NICU stay that was still deeply empowering because she stayed rooted in advocacy, autonomy, and trust in herself. Together, HeHe and Tilly dive into birth plans vs. flexibility, the role partners play during labor, how sexuality work can strengthen your voice and self-trust, and why reclaiming pleasure matters in postpartum too. Tilly also shares about Taoist jade egg practices, pelvic vitality, and reconnecting with your body after birth. This episode is expansive, thought-provoking, and such an important reminder that empowered birth is not about perfection—it’s about presence, safety, and sovereignty. 00:00 Conditioning Sets the Stage 01:53 Meet Tilly and Orgasmic Birth 04:23 Redefining Female Orgasm 08:55 Surrender Through Pain and Bliss 16:05 Roots of Trust and Freebirth 25:15 Farm Lessons and Birth Plans 30:19 Dissociation Versus Ecstasy 31:50 Nursery Curtains Sponsor Break 34:57 Taoism and Empowered Presence 36:13 Second Birth Curveball 36:40 ER After Water Break 38:21 Breast Pump Induction 41:52 NICU Advocacy And Care 47:34 Sovereignty Over Sexuality 01:05:02 Jade Egg And Wrap Up Guest Bio: If lack of confidence, low libido, or guilt and shame around your sexuality are the cause of your bedroom woes, (the hot, wild sex you never have any more, or the transition into motherhood or menopause that sucked your libido dry), you need Tilly. She’s a somatic sex and intimacy coach for women who lack desire or pleasure in the bedroom and beyond. With a background in Taoism and Tantra, Tilly brings a modern twist to unlocking pleasure and passion in the bedroom. Using somatic healing, psychotherapy, and proven coaching techniques, she helps ambitious women reignite their desire and experience more pleasure in the bedroom and beyond. Connect with Tilly: https://www.tillystorm.com/5daytraining SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ BIRTH EDUCATION: Learn how to stay in control of your birth and reduce the risk of unnecessary interventions in our Avoid a C-Section Webinar. HeHe breaks down the cascade of interventions, explains what’s really happening in the hospital, and shares practical strategies to protect your birth plan, advocate for yourself, and navigate labor with confidence. Perfect for anyone who wants a positive, informed hospital birth experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/csection Feeling nervous about speaking up in labor? Our Scripts for Advocacy give you the exact words to handle the most common conversations that can make or break your birth experience. From declining unnecessary interventions to asking the right questions about procedures, these scripts empower you to stay in control, speak confidently, and protect your birth plan — even when the pressure is on. Think of it as your personal toolkit for advocating like a pro, so you can focus on your baby, not the stress: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/Scripts-for-Advocacy And if you haven’t grabbed it yet… Snag my free Pitocin Guide to understand the risks, benefits, and red flags your provider may not be telling you about, so you can make informed, powerful decisions in labor: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pitocin Join The Birth Lounge for judgment-free, evidence-based childbirth education from HeHe that shows you exactly how to navigate hospital policies, avoid unnecessary interventions, and have a trauma-free labor experience, all while feeling wildly supported every step of the way: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Want prep delivered straight to your phone? Download The Birth Lounge App for bite-sized birth and postpartum tools you can use anytime, anywhere: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app