The MamasteFit Podcast
MamasteFit is a prenatal and postpartum fitness and birth education company. Join sister duo Gina, a birth doula and perinatal fitness trainer, and Roxanne, a labor and delivery nurse and student midwife, as they discuss topics related to pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period.
Episodes
173: Postpartum Vaginal Changes: Dryness, Itchiness, Discharge, Healing Timeline & Red Flags
Certified nurse midwife Roxanne explains common postpartum vaginal changes—including dryness, itchiness, discharge shifts, reduced rugae, and feelings of laxity—and why they often occur due to a steep drop in estrogen and progesterone after birth, with prolactin keeping estrogen low (especially while breastfeeding). She outlines comfort measures such as water- or silicone-based lubricants for inti
Birth Story 91: Madalynne’s Surprise Car Birth in Downtown Savannah
On the MamasteFit Podcast, perinatal fitness trainer/doula Gina and certified nurse-midwife Roxanne interview Madalynne, a military mom, about her two births—especially her wildly fast second labor. With her first, she prepared intensely, went overdue with gestational diabetes, chose an induction (Foley bulb and Cytotec), labored with strong pushing urges before full dilation, delivered a 7 lb 14
172: Pelvic Floor Relaxation for Labor: Loose Lips, Loose Hips & the “Dilation Station”
This episode shares practical labor relaxation tips to help the pelvic floor soften so baby can navigate more easily, especially when contractions make it hard to drop into the parasympathetic “rest and digest” mode. It covers the jaw–pelvic floor connection (via fascia and the nervous system), using a soft jaw/open mouth, deep low vocalizations (instead of high “eee” tension), “horsey lips” and p
171: How to Tell If Your Water Broke (Rupture of Membranes): Signs, Tests, and What to Do Next
Certified nurse midwife Roxanne explains what it means when your water breaks (rupture of membranes), what amniotic fluid does, and why for over 90% of people it’s not the first sign of labor. She reviews SROM (water breaks during labor after 37 weeks), PROM (water breaks before contractions after 37 weeks, occurring in about 6–9% of pregnancies), PPROM (before 37 weeks), and the rare en caul birt
Birth Story 90: Kendra’s Three Birth Stories
On the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina (perinatal fitness trainer/birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) interview Kendra, an ICU nurse and mom of three, as she shares two epidural births and her third hospital birth—unmedicated—with doula support. She reflects on initially skipping childbirth prep, feeling disconnected while pushing with a strong epidural, and later attempting an unmedicated
170: TENS Unit for Pregnancy, Labor & Postpartum Pain Relief (Evidence, Placement & What to Buy)
Certified nurse-midwife and labor nurse Roxanne explains what a TENS unit (transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation) is, how it may reduce pain via gate control theory and endogenous opioid release, and why starting it earlier in labor may help more. She reviews evidence showing TENS can substantially reduce reported labor pain, allow mobility, and may shorten labor compared with epidurals, whi
169: Pregnant on Active Duty: Army Reality Checks, Leave Perks & Why Timing Matters
Gina (perinatal fitness trainer/birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) share their experiences being pregnant while active duty Army - noting it’s been about 10 years and policies may have changed! They explain their Army roles—Gina as an MP officer and cultural support team leader attached to all-male special operations units (plus airborne/jump master), and Roxanne as an Army nurse w
168: Pregnancy Discharge: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and When It Might Be Your Water Breaking
Certified nurse midwife Roxanne explains that increased watery, slippery vaginal discharge in pregnancy (leukorrhea) is usually normal, driven by estrogen and progesterone, and helps protect against infection and form the mucus plug. She outlines red flags and common end-of-pregnancy confusion: discharge is typically clear-to-milky with little odor, while amniotic fluid is often clear/pink-tinged,
Birth Story 89: Farrah’s Two Birth Stories: 30-Hour Hospital Marathon vs. 3-Hour Bathroom Sprint
Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) interviews one of their childbirth educators, Farrah (a nurse and doula), about two very different births after years of infertility, PCOS, and thyroid issues. Her first pregnancy was a surprise during COVID; ending in delivering an OP baby after extended labor, internal maneuvers, a deep second-degree tear, and bleeding linked to an overfull bladder. Her second b
167: Setting Up for the Birth You Want
Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) define “unmedicated birth” for this episode as giving birth without an epidural, and explain why some people choose it. They cover potential benefits like easier position changes, fewer issues if an epidural doesn’t work as expected, and physiologic/hormonal effects. They address concerns about epidural medications (i
166: Pregnancy Constipation: Why It Happens and How to Go Without Struggling
Roxanne, a certified nurse midwife, breaks down pregnancy (and postpartum) constipation—aka a “traffic jam” of poop that gets harder the longer it sits because your body absorbs the water (think Play-Doh left out overnight). She explains common causes: progesterone slowing GI motility, the growing uterus and posture changes creating compression, supplements (especially iron), and often-overlooked
165: Running Postpartum With Prolapse (and Gina’s Totally Normal 100-Mile Plan)
Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) recap Roxanne’s first postpartum 10K at 4–5 months postpartum in Asheville—advertised as flat but full of hills! Roxanne explains the run/walk method and how she managed mild pelvic floor heaviness later that day, but felt fine the next day, with no leaking or other prolapse symptoms! They discuss run/walk/run method
164: Third Stage of Labor Explained: Delivering the Placenta, Hemorrhage Risk & Management Options
Certified Nurse Midwife Roxanne explains the third stage of labor—the time from baby’s birth to placenta delivery. How long does it last for most people, and why it matters for postpartum hemorrhage and potentially breastfeeding. Roxanne describes how oxytocin-driven uterine contractions help the placenta separate and the signs of separation and compares expectant/physiologic management (waiting a
Birth Story 88: Brooke’s Unmedicated Birth: When Hypnobirthing Breaks Up With You
On the MamasteFit Podcast, perinatal fitness trainer and doula Gina and certified nurse midwife Roxanne interview Brooke about the birth of her second child, Scarlet. After a 48-hour first labor that included Pitocin and an epidural, Brooke (a physical therapist) prepared intensely for an unmedicated hospital birth: reading Ina May’s Guide to Childbirth, listening to MamasteFit, taking our childbi
163: The History of Birth: From Home to Hospital (and Back Again)
Gina (doula/perinatal fitness trainer) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) walk through how birth has evolved, from mostly home births with midwives pre-1700s (but high death rates from infection, bleeding, obstructed labor, and blood pressure issues) to increasing hospital-based, physician-led care in the 1800s–1900s. They discuss key shifts like antiseptics, anesthesia (including twilight slee
162: Gestational Diabetes 101: Tests, Risks, and What Changes in Your Pregnancy
This episode breaks down gestational diabetes (new insulin resistance in pregnancy—not type 1 or 2), how insulin and glucose work, and why pregnancy naturally raises insulin resistance (but sometimes the pancreas can’t keep up). It covers who’s at higher risk (higher BMI, inactivity, prior GDM, certain ethnic groups, prior 9+ lb baby, PCOS, hypertension, heart disease) and how screening works at 2
161: Elective Induction: Risks, Benefits, and How to Decide
This episode breaks down elective induction (inducing labor at 39–41 weeks with no medical reason besides still being pregnant) and reminds you that “we scheduled your induction” still requires your consent. It explains why 39 weeks is the risk-benefit sweet spot (mature baby lungs) and why providers avoid going past 42 weeks (stillbirth risk rises from 1/10,000 at 37 weeks to 32/10,000 at 42 week
Birth Story 87: Hanna’s Home VBAC After Two C-Sections (and a Surprise Shoulder Dystocia)
In this MamasteFit Podcast: Birth Story, Hanna shares her home VBAC story after two C-sections, delivering a 9 lb 11 oz baby despite being told her pelvis was “too small” in previous births. She recounts a first pregnancy shaped by COVID stress, a long induction ending in C-section, and a discouraging postpartum comment about never birthing vaginally. Her second pregnancy included deep VBAC resear
160: From “Pick a Side” to “Pick What Fits”: How Our Birth-Work Views Changed
Gina (doula/perinatal fitness trainer) and Roxanne (CNM, former L&D nurse) unpack how a decade in birth work—plus Gina’s first, distrust-filled hospital birth—shifted them away from polarizing “all natural” vs “all medical” takes. They discuss how social media fuels hate on both ends, how tension between doulas and providers can hurt the birthing person, and why an empowering birth isn’t defin
159: Prenatal Strength Training: Benefits Beyond Birth (Yes, You Can Lift!)
Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer, birth doula, and founder of MamasteFit in North Carolina, explains how exercising during pregnancy improves quality of life during pregnancy and postpartum—not just birth outcomes—while noting prenatal exercise research is still limited. She highlights a 2025/2026 American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology systematic review (11 RCTs) finding the strongest biom
158: For Real This Time: Entering the Child-Rearing Era (and Quitting the Mom Comparison Game)
Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) declare they’re officially done with pregnancies and fully in their child-rearing era, while joking about “perfect bookend babies,” potato-like newborns, and toddlers who won’t stop poking the baby’s face. They share what helped them accept closing the baby chapter—realizing you can’t get the same baby back, ack
Birth Story 86: Victoria’s Two Birth Stories: From Induction Chaos to Unmedicated Empowerment
In this MamasteFit Podcast: Birth Story, Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) interviews Victoria about two very different births: her first, a 39-week elective induction with Cytotec and high-dose Pitocin, limited eating/mobility, epidural issues, frequent cervical checks, infection/fever, and a postpartum hemorrhage with painful clot removal—followed by postpartum anxiety and breastfeeding struggle
157: Pregnancy Skin Changes Explained: Stretch Marks, Hyperpigmentation, Varicose Veins & Itchy Rashes
Certified nurse midwife Roxanne explains common skin changes in pregnancy caused by hormonal shifts, increased blood volume, and a growing belly, including hyperpigmentation (melasma, linea nigra), vascular changes (spider veins, varicose veins), and stretch marks. She shares practical tips like daily SPF and sun protection for darkening, and compression socks, avoiding prolonged standing/crossing
156: Placenta Previa Explained: Diagnosis, Bleeding Risks, Delivery Plan, and Safe Exercise
Certified nurse midwife Roxanne explains placenta previa—when the placenta covers or sits very close to the cervix (complete, partial, or low-lying)—usually found at the 18–22 week anatomy scan. While it can show up in 10–30% of pregnancies early on, most resolve as the uterus grows (about 90–95% for low-lying/partial and ~70% for complete), with follow-up ultrasounds commonly around 28, 32, and s
155: Itchy Palms in Pregnancy? Intrahepatic Cholestasis (ICP) Explained + When Delivery Is Recommended
Roxanne breaks down Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) —a pregnancy-specific liver condition (about 2–3% of pregnancies) where bile acids build up in the bloodstream, often causing intense itching on palms/soles with no rash. She reviews other possible symptoms (jaundice, dark urine, light stools, fatigue, right upper quadrant pain), how diagnosis is made with symptoms plus bile acid labs
154: How to Become a Certified Nurse Midwife (and Cry a Little)
Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) break down what labor & delivery nurses do versus midwives, OBs, and some family medicine providers, including who typically handles low- vs high-risk care and which interventions midwives can’t do. They explain why some people choose midwives versus OBs, and note midwives can provide full-spectrum women’s health
Birth Story 85: Destiny’s Whiplash Birth Journey: From Unplanned C-Section to Surprise VBAC
On this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast: Birth Stories, Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) interview Destiny about her two births. Her first ending with an unplanned C-section in 2024 after laboring to 10 cm, pushing 1.5 hours, spiking a fever with concern for infection, and baby’s sustained high heart rate. Her second, a much faster VBAC just three
153: Leaking When You Run? Postpartum Stress Urinary Incontinence Quick Fixes + Long-Term Solutions
Gina (perinatal fitness trainer/birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) discuss postpartum stress urinary incontinence—aka “surprise pee” during running, jumping, laughing, sneezing, or heavy lifts. The sisters and pros emphasize it’s common, not shameful, and NOT a required badge of motherhood. They explain key contributors: impact mechanics (shock absorption through ankles/knees/hips)
152: Doulas 101: Non Medical Birth Wizards
Gina (perinatal fitness trainer + birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) break down what a doula is—and definitely isn’t. A birth doula is a non-medical, continuous support person (think: labor coach, comfort measures, positions, partner guidance, emotional support, and helping you ask the right questions), not someone who checks cervixes, runs vitals, or makes medical decisions. They
151: Pelvic Floor: Beyond Squats, Butterflies & Kegels (Release + Strength by Quadrant)
Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula) breaks down why your pelvic floor isn’t a one-move wonder: hip and spine positions change pelvic floor tension, so deep squats, butterfly, and “all the Kegels” only hit part of the picture. She explains the pelvic floor as four quadrants (front/back, right/left) and shows how wide-stance + spinal extension biases the front, while knees-in/internal r
150: Roxanne’s First Month Postpartum Update & Returning to Fitness
Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) discuss Roxanne’s early postpartum recovery at five weeks after a home birth of her fourth baby, Harvey. Roxanne shares that this is her first postpartum without a hemorrhage, attributing differences to improved nutrient status (not being anemic, vitamin D, diet), the home birth flood of oxytocin & support,
Birth Story 84: Sadie’s Unmedicated Hospital Birth Story + Postpartum Highlights
Roxanne welcomes Sadie to share her first birth and postpartum experience. Sadie prepared for an unmedicated birth through extensive education (birth courses, daily podcasts/YouTube), movement/pelvic biomechanics work, breathing/hypnobirthing, and practicing counterpressure with her husband- inspiring her to later train as a doula! She chose a low-intervention hospital option in Utah called “Simpl
149: Roxanne’s Home Birth Story with Bonus Baby Harvey
Gina (perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula) and Roxanne (certified nurse midwife) share the story of Roxanne’s fourth “bonus baby,” Harvey, and the end of her pregnancy leading into a planned home birth. Roxanne describes weeks of waiting, prodromal labor, and trying to start labor on her due date (January 7) before Gina left for a pre-planned Disney Marathon trip; a cervical check showed she
148: Understanding Vaginal Tears During Childbirth: Types, Prevention, and Healing
Feeling overwhelmed about vaginal tearing during childbirth? Join Roxanne, a certified nurse midwife, on the MamasteFit YouTube channel as she breaks down the nuances of lacerations and vaginal tearing. Learn about different types and degrees of tears, their prevalence, and which ones may require sutures. Roxanne offers tips on preventing tears and discusses healing techniques, including the benef
147: Understanding Diastasis Recti: Fear, Function, and Healing
In this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, and Hayley Kava, our in-house pelvic floor PT, dive deep into the topic of diastasis recti. They explore the common fears and misconceptions associated with diastasis recti during and after pregnancy. The conversation covers the natural occurrence of abdominal muscle separation, the importance of br
146: Running the Goofy Challenge: Medals, Preparation & Personal Triumphs
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina shares her experience running the 2026 Walt Disney World Goofy Challenge, which involves completing a half marathon followed by a full marathon the next day! She details the motivation behind participating in the event and the unique medals awarded for completing both races. Gina discusses her training journey, the unexpected circumstances with her s
145: Understanding Fetal Monitoring: Continuous vs. Intermittent Explained
Join Roxanne, a certified nurse midwife and former labor nurse as she demystifies fetal monitoring. Roxanne delves into continuous and intermittent fetal heart rate monitoring, discussing their history, benefits, limitations, and appropriate use for both high and low-risk pregnancies. Learn about categories of fetal heart tracings, how they influence labor decisions, and the importance of shared d
144: Timeline & Tips for Returning to Exercise Postpartum
In this episode, perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula Gina outlines the phases of postpartum tissue healing, including the inflammation and proliferation phases, emphasizing the importance of patience and mindful movement during this period. She also provides practical advice on how to assess readiness for exercise, manage pressure, and avoid overloading the healing tissues. Additionally, Gin
143: Streamline Success: Automating Your Business for Client Focus
Gina breaks down what you need to know on how to automate the backend of a business to free up time for client interactions. The episode breaks down the essential steps for business automation, emphasizing the importance of creating and managing an email list. Gina shares her experience on using email platforms like Flow Desk to build automated workflows. The episode also discusses the effectivene
142: Roxanne’s Postpartum Prep Essentials: Round 4!
In this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast, Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, and Roxanne, a certified nurse midwife, discuss the essential preparations for the postpartum period. Roxanne shares her personal experiences with previous postpartums, emphasizing the importance of planning beyond birth. She details various aspects of prep including nutritional strategies, mental health
141: 10 Signs Labor is Approaching: Beyond Contractions
In this video, Roxanne, a certified nurse midwife, labor nurse with 13 years of experience, and soon-to-be mom of 4 discusses the various signs that indicate labor may be coming within the next 24 to 48 hours. Aside from contractions, Roxanne covers everything from effacement to diarrhea, how big of a deal is the loss of the mucus plug, what is vaginal discharge vs amniotic fluid, lightening, nest
140: Still Pregnant: Roxanne’s Third Trimester Update
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne discuss the final weeks of Roxanne's pregnancy as she approaches 35-36 weeks. They cover various topics including the mental and emotional challenges of the final month of pregnancy, their personal experiences with labor timelines, and detailed preparations for a home birth. The hosts discuss the importance of having an action plan
139: Creating Space in the Pelvic Outlet: Tips for Pushing
On this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, perinatal trainer and birth doula Gina and certified nurse midwife Roxanne delve into the intricacies of pelvic mechanics for the pelvic outlet. They discuss more than just the 'knees and ankles out' approach, focusing on the importance of soft tissue, hormonal impacts, and pressure mechanics with rib cage and pelvic positioning. Key topics include unders
Birth Story 83: Alex’s Empowering Unmedicated Hospital Birth & Postpartum Journey
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne talk with Alex about her unmedicated hospital birth. Alex shares her preparation for birth, the support she received from her provider, and how she used distraction to manage early labor. She describes her quick progression once she arrived at the hospital, the transition through labor, and her birthing experience, which included pu
138: What to Expect in the Second Trimester Anatomy Scan
Certified Nurse Midwife Roxanne explains the significance of the second trimester anatomy scan, typically performed between 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. She delves into the primary objectives of the scan, which include assessing the baby’s organs, limbs, and overall growth, as well as evaluating the placenta's position and condition. Roxanne also covers common reasons for follow-up scans and helps
137: Understanding Iron Deficiency Anemia in Pregnancy: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
In this episode of the MamasteFit YouTube channel, certified nurse midwife Roxanne discusses iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy. She explains the importance of hemoglobin and iron in red blood cells, symptoms of anemia, and the necessity of increased iron due to the doubling of blood volume during pregnancy. Roxanne outlines how iron deficiency anemia is screened through blood tests and indicates
136: Understanding Pelvic Mechanics for Birth Workers
In this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, and Roxanne, a Certified Nurse Midwife, discuss the importance of understanding pelvic mechanics for birth workers. The episode addresses how the pelvis opens, the different movements and exercises that can create space prenatally and during labor, and the impact of pelvic mechanics on pregnancy com
Birth Story 82: Faith’s Conception with a Known Donor & Home Birth
In this Birth Story episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina and Roxanne welcome Faith to share her comprehensive journey into motherhood. Faith recounts her unique conception process using a known sperm donor due to her partner's genetic condition, leading to pregnancy after multiple attempts. She details her active pregnancy, preparatory measures for a home birth, and the intense yet empoweri
135: The Final Stretch: Roxanne's Third Trimester and Home Birth Plans
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina and Roxanne sit down for an update on Roxanne's fourth pregnancy. Approaching her third trimester, Roxanne shares her experiences and challenges during her second trimester, including juggling midwifery school, work, and raising three other children. They discuss the preparation for the upcoming birth, including prenatal visits, the decision for a ho
134: From Marathons to Motherhood: Gina's Postpartum Update
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne discuss Gina's experiences one year postpartum, including her fitness journey, bodily changes, and personal challenges with childcare for 4! They delve into adjusting workout routines, the importance of support systems, and the reality of managing fitness amidst the demands of motherhood. The hosts emphasize the significance of rede
133: It’s Not Your Fault: Navigating Pregnancy Loss
In this emotional episode of The MamasteFit Podcast, perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula Gina shares her personal stories of two back-to-back pregnancy losses in honor of Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. She discusses her experiences, the journey of managing losses while working within the perinatal community, and the challenges of handling pregnancy after loss. The episode aims to
132: Navigating Childbirth Costs: Unlocking Financial Resources
In this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast Roxanne is joined by Pachet Bryant, a pregnancy and postpartum care coordinator and founder of Mine Maternity. They discuss the often overwhelming financial aspects of childbirth and parenting, highlighting the importance of understanding insurance benefits and exploring available resources. Pachet shares insights on optimizing benefits through insurance,
Birth Story 81: Allison's Emergency C-Section: The Life-Saving Power of Counting Kicks
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne talk with Allison, who shares her compelling birth story. At 34 weeks pregnant, Allison noticed decreased fetal movement and, after listening to the podcast's 'Count the Kicks' episode, decided to seek medical attention. This decision likely saved her baby's life. Allison discusses her pregnancy journey, her initial plans for a natu
131: Maximizing Birth Prep with Prenatal Yoga: Insights from Deb Flashenberg
In this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast, Roxanne welcomes Deb Flashenberg, a prenatal yoga instructor, doula, and childbirth educator. They discuss the impact of prenatal yoga on birth preparation, emphasizing its benefits for building both physical and mental flexibility. Deb shares her journey into prenatal yoga, the transformation of her teaching approach, and the importance of understanding
130: Comprehensive Birth Preparation: Physical, Emotional, and Mental Readiness
In this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne explore the multifaceted approach to birth preparation. Joined by Haley Kava, an in-house pelvic floor PT, the discussion covers essential physical preparations, such as supporting baby's positioning, improving pelvic mobility, and releasing pelvic floor tension. The episode also delves into emotional and mental preparations, includ
129: Benefits & Myths of Perineal Massage During Pregnancy
In this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast, Gina is joined by Hayley Kava, an in-house physical therapist, to discuss the pros and cons of perineal massage during pregnancy. The conversation revolves around whether perineal massage can help prevent or decrease the risk of tearing during childbirth, especially focusing on first-time pregnancies. They delve into personal experiences, the mixed eviden
Birth Story 80: Briana’s Unmedicated Vaginal Birth with Successful ECV
On this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast Roxanne welcomes Briana to share her experience of a vaginal unmedicated birth at a freestanding birth center. Briana discusses the challenges she faced when she discovered her baby was breech at 36 weeks and the steps she and her husband took to turn the baby. They eventually opted for an external cephalic version (ECV) procedure which led to a successful
128: Optimizing Your Finances: Tax Strategies for Moms and Small Business Owners
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne are joined by Kimberly Tara, a CPA and Certified Tax Coach. The discussion centers on how to effectively manage finances to keep more earnings within the family, focusing on business creation, tax deductions, and strategies to ensure financial stability while spending more quality time with children. Kimberly shares her journey from
127: Debunking Myths & Understanding Chiropractic Care with Dr. Savannah Gardner
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, and Roxanne, a labor and delivery nurse and student midwife, welcome Dr. Savannah Gardner, a local certified pediatric chiropractor. The discussion dives deep into the benefits of chiropractic care, debunking common misconceptions, and exploring how chiropractic adjustments can aid in improving move
Birth Story 79: Marisa's Unmedicated Hospital Birth
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast Gina welcomes Marisa, a physical therapist, who shares the unmedicated hospital birth story of her second child. Marisa discusses how her approach changed from her first pregnancy, focusing on physical preparation using MamasteFit's exercise programs. She describes her experience managing a toddler, the onset of labor, and an intense but empowering labor a
126: Understanding Pelvic Organ Prolapse: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina sits down with our fav pelvic floor PT, Hayley Kava, to delve into the topic of pelvic organ prolapse. They discuss what pelvic organ prolapse is, the types of prolapses, and the symptoms associated with them. The ladies also share their personal experiences, demystifying the fear surrounding the diagnosis, and practical advice on managing and living
125: Exploring Optimal Pushing Positions
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, and Roxanne, a labor and delivery nurse and student midwife, explore the various pushing positions during labor. They emphasize that the best pushing position is the one the mother chooses and feels comfortable in. They discuss the common pushing position of being on your back, its pros and cons, an
124: Choosing the Best Prenatal Vitamin with Needed Co-Founder Ryan Woodbury
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina interviews Ryan Woodbury, one of the co-founders of the perinatal supplement support company, Needed. They discuss the importance of quality prenatal vitamins to fill nutritional gaps and support a healthy pregnancy. Ryan shares insights into her background, the inception of Needed, and the research and testing behind their prenatal vitamins. T
123: Understanding & Correcting “Power Stalls” in Labor
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina and Roxanne continue their discussion of late labor stall causes and solutions, this time with a focus on the concept of “power stalls”, or issues with the strength of contractions. They highlight the importance of understanding what affects the strength of contractions—ranging from environmental distractions and psychological state to physical facto
122: Labor Stalls: Aligning Baby and Pelvis for a Smooth Delivery
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, and Roxanne, a labor and delivery nurse and student midwife, explore the topic of labor stalls specifically related to baby’s position and/or passage (aka your pelvis!). They dive deep into what labor stalls are, the signs to look out for, and strategies to resolve them. The discussion includes understand
Birth Story 78: Feige's Unplanned C-Section & Life-Saving Decision
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast Birth Stories, Feige shares her 2 birth stories, detailing her transition from an unplanned C-section in her first birth to preparing for a VBAC in her second pregnancy. Despite meticulous preparation involving choosing a different provider, exercising, and maintaining a healthy diet, she faced an emergency C-section the day before her due date due to decr
121: “A Nice Place to Die!”: Gina Survives Her First Postpartum Marathon
In this episode of The MamasteFit Podcast, Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, shares her experience training for and completing a marathon just nine months postpartum with her fourth baby. Despite initial challenges, including being abandoned by her running partner Roxanne due to a surprise pregnancy, Gina details her journey from maintaining fitness during pregnancy to rebuilding
120: SURPRISE!!! Roxanne's Pregnant?!
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina and Roxanne reveal Roxanne's surprise pregnancy with Baby #4.... likely the final MamasteFit baby (though we've heard this before!). The sisters discuss the emotional and practical implications of this new development as they explore the challenges and adjustments Roxanne faces as a labor and delivery nurse and student midwife, preparing for a home b
119: Resolving SI Joint Pain with Hayley Kava, PT
Our girl, in-house pelvic floor physical therapist Hayley Kava, is back to discuss SI (sacroiliac) joint pain- a common issue during pregnancy! They delve into various types of discomfort associated with the SI joint, detail the joint's function, and explain how asymmetry in pelvic movement can cause pain. Hayley provides insight into how the pelvis supports movement, particularly the gait cyc
Birth Story 77: Grace Ann's Home Birth with Postpartum Hemorrhage
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast's Birth Story Friday, Grace Ann shares her experiences of having two home births, including dealing with a postpartum hemorrhage. Midwives expertly managed the situation, ensuring the safety of both mother and baby. Grace Ann highlights the importance of having midwives capable of handling emergencies and discusses her preparation, labor, and postpartu
118: Balancing Hormones and Finding Food Freedom with Amber Romaniuk
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina and Roxanne discuss the impacts of hormonal imbalances on physical health, mental well-being, and appetite. Joined by Amber Romaniuk, an expert on emotional eating and hormone imbalances, they delve into the importance of identifying nutrient deficiencies, such as iron and B12, and practical self-care strategies to manage stress and improve overall h
11: Navigating Your Postpartum Period: Expectations & Influencing Factors
In this episode of Moments With MamasteFit, we dive into understanding your postpartum period, its return timeline, and influential factors such as breastfeeding, weaning, stress, and nutrition. Hosts share personal experiences and discuss how lifestyle, mental health, and diet play roles in the resumption of menstrual cycles. They also provide practical tips, recommend nutritional advice, and dis
117: Postpartum Nutrition with Ryann Kipping
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne dive into postpartum nutrition with registered dietician Ryann Kipping, known as @PrenatalNutritionist. Ryann shares her expertise on the importance of proper nutrition postpartum, explaining the elevated nutritional demands following childbirth, especially for mothers who are breastfeeding. Topics covered include the significance o
Birth Story 76: Mikala's Home Birth to Hospital Transfer & NICU Stay
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Birth Story Friday, Mikala shares her experience of a planned home birth that necessitated a hospital transfer due to her baby's elevated heart rate. Mikala discusses her extensive preparation for an unmedicated home birth, her quick labor progression, and the challenging decision to transfer to a hospital. Despite the hospital transfer and some minor fri
67: Pelvic Pain Relief Tips
Gina Roxanne discuss the myths and realities of dealing with pelvic pain during pregnancy. They break down different types of pelvic pain, such as pubic symphysis dysfunction (SPD) and sacroiliac (SI) joint pain, offering insights into their causes and effective exercises for relief. The hosts emphasize that pain is not a requirement of pregnancy and share professional advice, including recommenda
116: Simplifying Breastfeeding with IBCLC Andrea Syms-Brown
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer and birth doula, and Roxanne, a Labor and Delivery nurse and student midwife, are joined by Andrea Syms-Brown, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). They discuss simplifying the breastfeeding journey, especially during the first month postpartum. Andrea shares practical tips on how to ensure
10: Organizing Chaos: Homeschooling and Parenting While Running a Business
In this episode of Moments with MamasteFit, Gina, a perinatal fitness trainer, birth doula, and mom of four, shares her strategies for homeschooling her first grader, managing a full-time business, and primarily solo parenting as a military spouse. She emphasizes the importance of support systems, prioritization, and effective scheduling. Gina provides a detailed look into her weekly routines, hom
115: The Talk: How to Educate Your Kids on Sex in a Digital Age with Jo Robertson
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, hosts Gina and Roxanne speak with Jo Robertson about the importance of talking to children about sex. Jo shares her extensive background in sex education, offering insight into when and how to introduce the topic to kids, especially in today’s digital age. They discuss the benefits of starting these conversations early and how it helps in building confide
Birth Story 75: Tina's Unmedicated Hospital Births & Emergency C-Section
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Tina shares her transformative experiences of her three births. Tina's first two births were unmedicated and hospital-based, which she initially perceived as traumatic. However, after an unexpected Cesarean during her third birth, she found a newfound appreciation for her earlier experiences. Tina emphasizes the vital role of prenatal fitness in heali
114: My Postpartum Running Journey After Baby #4
In this episode of the MamasteFit Podcast, Gina sits down to discuss how she has safely and confidently navigated her return to running- most recently at 8 months postpartum after baby number 4! As a former collegiate athlete and ultra-marathon runner, Gina breaks down what she has learned about returning to the sport she loves after becoming a mom (multiple times over!). Get Your Copy of Training
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