Yoga Birth Babies
Take ownership of your pregnancy, birth, and parenthood! Join Deb Flashenberg as she dives into conversations with some of the world’s leading pregnancy, birth, yoga and parenting experts. Deb and her guests are voices of calm and reason, sharing practical, relevant, insightful and evidence based information that is helpful for people at all stages of parenting. These lively conversations will inform and entertain you as you embark on this new phase in your life.
Episodes
The Perfect Birth Myth: Rethinking Expectations and Realities in Motherhood with Avital Norman Nathman
What does it mean to have a “perfect birth,” and how do our expectations shape the way we experience childbirth? In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, we welcome writer, editor, and storyteller Avital Norman Nathman to explore the cultural narratives surrounding birth, motherhood, and the pressure to get it all right. Drawing from her upcoming book, The Perfect Birth Myth: Pushing Back Against
Community Birth Story: A Story Rooted in Strength, Community, and Trust with Rosario Del Valle
What happens when pregnancy and birth become an opportunity to lean into strength, trust, and community? In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, we hear Rosario Del Valle’s deeply personal birth story, from preparing for labor during pregnancy to navigating the unexpected challenges of birth and the emotional experience of meeting her baby for the first time.
Rosario shares how her mindset arou
Diastasis Recti and the Pelvic Floor with Dr. Sarah Duvall | A Re-Release
Diastasis recti and pelvic floor health are two topics that come up frequently during pregnancy and postpartum, but there is often confusion about how they are connected and what it actually takes to heal. In this re-release, we revisit our conversation with women’s health and fitness specialist Dr. Sarah Duvall to break down the relationship between the abdominal wall, core strength, posture, and
How to Increase the Chances of a Vaginal Birth in the Hospital with Dr. Melanie Jackson
What can you do to support a physiologic birth when you’re planning to give birth in a hospital? In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, we’re joined by Dr. Melanie Jackson, also known as Melanie the Midwife, to explore the preparation, environment, movement, support, and mindset that can help create the conditions for labor to unfold as physiologically as possible.
Melanie and Deb talk ab
Stillbirth Awareness: What Every Expectant Parent Should Know with Liz O'Donnell
Stillbirth is a topic that many expectant parents know very little about, yet it is an important part of pregnancy education and care. In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, we’re joined by Liz O’Donnell, co-founder and Director of Education of PUSH for Empowered Pregnancy, to have an open and empowering conversation about stillbirth prevention, awareness, and how parents can feel more informed
Birth Story: How I Healed After a Difficult Birth and Approached My Next Pregnancy Differently with Caitlyn Sunseri
In this deeply personal episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, we sit down with Caitlyn Sunseri, a doula and prenatal yoga teacher based in Bakersfield, CA, to talk about healing after a difficult birth and how that healing shaped a completely different second birth experience. Caitlyn opens up about her first birth with her son Ryder, the vision she held for it, and how reality diverged from that
Pushing Tips for Labor with Liz Wade and Shaina Brickner - A Revisit
Pushing is one of the most anticipated and often most misunderstood stages of labor. In this episode, we sit down with Liz Wade and Shaina Brickner, The Birth Nurses, to break down what effective pushing actually looks like, what tends to go wrong, and how positioning can make all the difference in how labor unfolds.
Liz and Shaina share what they commonly see in the delivery room that isn’t alwa
What Acupuncture Can (and Can't) Do During Pregnancy
In this episode, we’re joined by Nicole Kruck, L.Ac., L.M.T., founder of Fertile Garden Wellness in New York City, for a warm and informative conversation about acupuncture, bodywork, and integrative care throughout fertility, pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Nicole shares how she approaches women’s health through an integrative lens and explains how acupuncture and bodywork can complement fertil
Understanding Birth Trauma and How to Heal After with Dr. Kenga Sivarajah
A difficult or traumatic birth experience can have an impact long after the baby is born. In this episode, Deb sits down with Dr. Kenga Sivarajah, a Consultant Obstetrician with expertise in high-risk obstetrics, maternal medicine, and perinatal mental health, to explore what birth trauma can look like, why it can be difficult to recognize, and what healing can involve. Dr. Sivarajah brings both a
Why We Want to Control Pregnancy, Birth and Parenthood with Dr. Britta Bushnell - A Revisit
In a world where information is always at our fingertips, it's easy to believe that if we just learn enough, plan enough, and prepare enough, we can control pregnancy, birth, and parenthood. But what if the real work is learning to embrace the unknown? In this episode, Deb is joined by Dr. Britta Bushnell, author of Transformed by Birth, childbirth educator, and relationship guide, for a thoughtfu
Birth Story: From Triage to Baby in Minutes with Eyal Meir
Birth can be wonderfully unpredictable. In this Community Birth Story episode, Deb sits down with Eyal Meir, an IBCLC and prenatal and postpartum nutritionist, to hear the incredible story of her second birth—from arriving at triage to meeting her baby just minutes later. Eyal reflects on how this pregnancy differed from her first, how prior birth experience shaped her mindset, and the surprising
Demystifying Labor: What an OB-GYN Wants You to Know Before Birth with Dr. Jennifer Lincoln
Labor can feel mysterious, overwhelming, and full of conflicting advice. In this episode, Deb sits down with board-certified OB-GYN and IBCLC Dr. Jennifer Lincoln to separate fact from fiction and discuss what every expectant parent should know before giving birth. Drawing from her new book, The Birth Book, Dr. Lincoln offers evidence-based guidance to help parents approach labor with greater conf
Stop Normalizing Pelvic Floor Dysfunction with Dr. Sneha Gazi
Many people are told that leaking urine, pelvic pain, or feeling "off" after pregnancy is simply something they have to live with- but that's far from the truth. In this episode, Deb sits down with pelvic floor physical therapist Dr. Sneha Gazi to unpack some of the biggest misconceptions surrounding pelvic floor health during pregnancy and postpartum. Together, they explore what pelvic floor dysf
Community Birth Story: She Went to a Routine Appointment- and Left with a Baby! with Elena Santoro
Birth doesn't always begin the way we imagine it will. In this Community Birth Story episode, Deb sits down with Elena Santoro to hear the story of how a routine 38-week prenatal appointment unexpectedly turned into the birth of her baby. What began as a regular check-up quickly shifted into an induction, requiring Elena to adjust her expectations and embrace an entirely different birth experience
Revisiting: Managing Tantrums According To Science with Dr. Cindy Hovington
Tantrums are a normal part of childhood, but that doesn't make them any easier to navigate. In this episode, we revisit a valuable episode “from the vault,” in which Deb sits down with Dr. Cindy Hovington to explore the science behind tantrums and emotional regulation. Together, they unpack what's actually happening in a child's brain during a meltdown and why understanding brain development can h
Why Some Kids Get Support and Others Don’t- and What Parents Can Do with Paula Yost
Before your child ever needs extra support, it's helpful to understand how to navigate the systems designed to help them. In this episode, Deb speaks with attorney and mental health clinician Paula Yost about Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), advocating within the school system, and how parents can confidently speak up when they know something isn't quite right.
Paula shares practical g
The Story Behind the PYC Method: A Conversation with Deb & Phoebe
What makes the Prenatal Yoga Center Teacher Training so unique? In this special episode, Deb sits down with PYC graduate and mentor Phoebe to explore her journey through the training and how it transformed her approach to teaching yoga. Together, they discuss the evolution of the PYC Method, the shift to hybrid learning during the pandemic, and why the training continues to resonate with yoga teac
How Expectations Shape Birth- and What Happens When Reality Doesn’t Match Them with Robin Gibson Douthit
Birth rarely unfolds exactly as we imagine, yet many expectant parents enter labor with expectations shaped by stories, social media, classes, and conversations with care providers. In this episode, Deb sits down with doula, Lamaze childbirth educator, and lactation counselor Robin Gibson Douthit to explore how those expectations influence the birth experience—and what happens when reality takes a
How to Travel with Kids with Bri Hepworth of Mini Voyager
Travel looks different once kids enter the picture- but that doesn’t mean adventure has to stop. In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, Deb sits down with Bri Hepworth, mom of four and founder of Mini Voyager, to talk about the realities of traveling with children and how families can make trips feel more enjoyable, flexible, and memorable.
Bri shares how her perspective on travel evolved af
Community Birth Story: Making Peace With a Birth That Didn’t Go As Planned with Nitzan Auz
In this deeply honest community birth story, Deb talks with Nitzan Auz about the emotional complexity of welcoming her third baby during a season of uncertainty, stress, and shifting expectations. As she approached her due date, Nitzan found herself navigating not only the physical and emotional intensity of late pregnancy, but also the weight of global events unfolding in Israel that deeply impac
Vaginal Exams: When and Why to Have One During Pregnancy and Labor with Kara French- A Revisit!
Vaginal exams are one of the most common procedures during pregnancy and labor, but are they always necessary? In this episode, Deb sits down with certified nurse midwife Kara French to unpack when and why vaginal exams may be offered, what information they actually provide, and how parents can make informed decisions about their care.
Together, they explore the role of vaginal exams both befor
Doula Do's and Don'ts with Taylor Lee Bello
What does excellent doula support actually look like- from pregnancy through postpartum? In this candid and practical conversation, Deb sits down with birth doula Taylor Lee Bello to explore what families should know when choosing a doula, what healthy communication and expectations look like during labor, and the often-overlooked support needed in the immediate postpartum period.
Together, the
Vaccines During Pregnancy and Infancy: What Parents Should Know with Dr. Flor Muñoz
Vaccines can feel like one of the most overwhelming topics for expectant and new parents—especially when information online is conflicting, emotional, and constantly changing. In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, Deb sits down with Flor M. Muñoz to unpack what parents actually need to know about vaccination during pregnancy and infancy.
Together, they explore how maternal vaccines help pro
Community Birth Story: Twin Pregnancy and Birth with Isabel Low
Welcoming twins into the world often comes with extra layers of planning, medical decision-making, and learning to adapt when things don’t go exactly as expected. In this community birth story, Deb talks with Isabel Low about her emotional two-year fertility journey, the surprise and excitement of learning she was pregnant with twins, and how carrying two babies reshaped her expectations for pregn
Why it’s Important to Normalize Formula Feeding with Jayne Freeman - A Revisit
Feeding your baby can feel like one of the most emotionally loaded parts of early parenthood—and for many families, the conversation around formula feeding is still wrapped in stigma and silence. In this episode, Deb speaks with Jayne Freeman, a childbirth educator, postpartum doula, and breastfeeding counselor who is passionate about expanding the narrative around infant feeding. Together, they e
Why Most Potty Training Advice Fails Half of Toddlers with Dr. Heather Wittenberg
Potty training can feel surprisingly simple for some families—and incredibly challenging for others. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Heather Wittenberg, child psychologist and founder of BabyShrink, to unpack why that divide exists and what parents can do when things don’t go as planned. We explore how potty training is more than just a practical skill—it’s a complex developmental milestone t
What Partners Get Wrong (and Right) About Supporting Birth with Yiska Obadia
Partners are often told to “be supportive” during pregnancy and birth- but what does that actually look like in practice? In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, we explore how partners can move beyond simply being present to becoming truly engaged, attuned, and collaborative throughout the journey.
Joined by doula and perinatal bodyworker Yiska Obadia, we unpack some of the most common misun
Understanding Preterm Birth: Risk, Prevention, and What We’re Learning with Dr. Laura Jelliffe-Pawlowski
Preterm birth is something many parents worry about- but how much do we really understand about why it happens and how to prevent it? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Laura Jelliffe-Pawlowski, a leading researcher in maternal and infant health, to explore how our understanding of preterm birth has evolved- and where the science is headed.
We discuss what current research tells us about risk
Beyond Behavior: Understanding Sensory Needs and Regulation in Children with Madeha Ayub
Children’s behavior is often seen at the surface—but what if there’s so much more underneath? In this episode, we explore the powerful role sensory processing plays in shaping how children experience and respond to the world around them. Pediatric Occupational Therapist Madeha Ayub helps us reframe “challenging behavior” through a more compassionate, informed lens, offering parents a deeper unders
Prepared, Supported, and Unrushed: A Birth Story with Hayley Antonelli
What does it look like to approach birth feeling prepared, supported, and truly unrushed? In this episode, Deb is joined by yoga teacher Hayley Antonelli, who shares her thoughtful and empowering birth story. From intentionally training in prenatal yoga before conception to carefully building a birth team aligned with her values, Hayley walks us through how preparation and mindset shaped her entir
Newborn and Childhood Vaccinations with Dr. Ana-Maria Temple - A Revisit
The vaccination schedule for your baby can feel daunting. It also may seem a little strange, you might wonder why a newborn needs to be protected against Hepatitis B? Between frequent visits to the pediatrician and fears you might have over adverse reactions to the vaccines, many parents wonder how they can best support their child.
In this episode of Yoga|Birth|Babies I speak with holistic p
Work, Pregnancy, and Boundaries: New Rules for Modern Parents with Lauren Smith Brody
A big topic of conversation among my prenatal students is maternity leave- how to set boundaries while pregnant, how to protect that time once baby arrives, and what it might look like to return to work postpartum. How do you hold both worlds of being a new parent and a working parent? Is it possible to truly enjoy both? The answer is yes, and in this conversation, you’ll hear practical tips and t
Community Birth Story: When Labor Moves Quickly with Rachel Eisman
On this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies I am joined by PYC community member, Rachel Eisman. Rachel is a public sector consultant and new mom of two. When she's not working, she likes writing and reading.
As we dive into Rachel’s birth story, we also revisit her first birth and explore the differences between the two. Rachel shares what she learned the first time around, and how she intentional
Induction at 39 Weeks: What the Data Says and What It Doesn’t with Dr. Elizabeth Langen
Today is all about induction at 39 weeks- something I hear often when my students approach that point in pregnancy. We’ll take a closer look at the ARRIVE Trial and explore whether the data truly reflects what’s happening in labor and delivery units. What are the real pros and cons of elective induction? What are the risks and potential benefits? Join us as we unpack this nuanced and often debated
Does a Cesarean Birth “Save Your Vagina” & Other Myths Busted with Dr. Janelle Howell - A Revisit!
I’m so happy that the pelvic floor is finally getting its moment to shine. This incredibly important set of muscles impacts our breath, continence, helps keep our organs in place, and affects our day to day comfort. It certainly deserves our attention! However not all of the information people are sharing about it is factual and some of these myths can lead to real physical issues over time.
On
After Infertility: How One Mom Learned to Trust Her Body Again with Elizabeth Sullivan
In today’s episode, we share a powerful community birth story shaped by resilience, intuition, and hope. It’s a journey through infertility that ultimately leads to the arrival of a miracle baby. This conversation explores trusting your inner voice, learning to advocate for yourself, building the right support team, and surrendering to the process when the path forward feels uncertain.
On this
Breastfeeding, Explained: What Parents Really Need to Know with Dr. Leigh Campbell
Today we’re talking about breastfeeding- a topic I know will be supportive for so many of you. What I love about this conversation is that my guest offers practical, accessible guidance and helps break down how the mechanics of breastfeeding actually work. Whether you’re preparing, navigating, or simply wanting to better understand the process, this episode is here to support you. Let’s dive in.
From Unmedicated Intentions to a Joyful Cesarean: One Mother’s Birth Story with Mika Fox
Today I’m joined by Mika Fox on Yoga | Birth | Babies. A native New Yorker, Mika lives on the Upper West Side with her husband and baby boy, Nogah. She works in account management at a tech company and loves to dance, hike, travel, and practice yoga.
Mika is also a PYC alum, having attended classes from weeks 14–39 of her pregnancy. Her birth story took unexpected twists and turns, but one thi
Postpartum Depression Today: What We Know, What We Miss, What’s Changing with Dr. Karen Sheffield-Abdullah
How has our understanding of postpartum evolved, and what challenges have remained all along? The answers may surprise you.
Today I’m joined by Dr. Karen Sheffield-Abdullah on Yoga | Birth | Babies. Dr. Karen is an assistant professor, certified nurse-midwife, mindfulness coach, and perinatal mental health researcher. Dr. Karen’s expertise has been featured in The New York Times, Politico, TEDx
Birth Story: Unexpected Turns: Nitasha Mehta on Fertility, Birth, and Postpartum Recovery
Today’s community birth story spans years- from a long path to pregnancy to an unexpected C-section and a diagnosis of postpartum preeclampsia. It’s truly a full-arc journey of resilience and transformation.
Listen in, as I’m joined by Nitasha Mehta on Yoga | Birth | Babies. Nitasha is a marketing leader with 15+ years of experience at Amazon, Samsung, and Boxed, whose work in women’s health led
A Village for Every Parent: The Power of Connection in the Perinatal Period with Shai Tamary
When becoming a new parent, it is crucial to have a community you can count on to not only understand what you’re going through, but also to show up for you. This is true for both pregnancy and postpartum… and also parenthood beyond.
In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I’m joined by Shai Tamary. Shai is a community builder, program strategist, and yoga teacher based in New York City. She
How to Overcome Traumatic Childbirth Experiences with Dr. Rebecca L. Dekker, PhD, RN
Today, we’re revisiting an episode focused on how to overcome- and prevent- traumatic childbirth experiences. My guest shares key factors that can contribute to birth trauma, red flags to watch for when working with a care provider, and three essential tips for preparing for childbirth. This episode is rich with insight, and my hope is that you’ll walk away feeling informed, empowered, and confide
Understanding HG (hyperemesis gravidarum) with Dr. Marlena Fejzo
In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I’m joined by Dr. Marlena Fejzo, a leading women’s health scientist and researcher. Dr. Fejzo is best known for discovering the first genes linked to uterine fibroids, nausea and vomiting of pregnancy, and hyperemesis gravidarum, and has published extensively on diseases affecting women. She is an Assistant Professor at the University of Southern Californi
From Only Child to Big Sibling: Supporting Toddlers Through Transition with Devon Kunztman
Toddlerhood is full of big emotions, sudden shifts, and constant change- especially when a new baby is on the way. Today we will dive into what’s really happening beneath toddler behavior and how parents can navigate this season of life with confidence, connection, and compassion.
In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I’m joined by Devon Kuntzman. Devon is the founder of Transforming Toddle
Postpartum Support in a Digital Age with Sarah Trott
At first glance, the title might make you think parenting in the digital age sounds overwhelming. But what if technology could actually support today’s parents instead of adding stress?
In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I’m joined by Sarah Trott. Sarah is the creator and host of The Fourth Trimester Podcast and founder of HelloGaia Parenting Copilot, an evidence-based tool that gives fa
Birth Story: From Fear to Joy with Srilaya Yallapragada
It’s time for another community birth story from one of our PYC students. I’m always amazed by the range of experiences people share, and I truly believe each story offers us valuable insight, empathy, and wisdom.
In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I’m joined by Srilaya Yallapragada- a software engineer from California who moved to NYC halfway through her pregnancy. Srilaya opens up abou
How to Find, Hire and Thrive with a Nanny with Sarah Davis
When my son was born and we needed a nanny, I remember feeling totally overwhelmed. Where do you even begin when it comes to hiring someone you barely know to caretake your child? It’s a feeling so many parents share, and that’s exactly what today’s episode is about: nannies- the process, the common mistakes made, and how to navigate it all.
In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I have Sara
The Placenta & Umbilical Cord Explained: Functions, Risks & Birth Facts with Dr. Jessica Vernon
A past blog post about nuchal cords (when the umbilical cord wraps around baby’s neck) sparked a lot of fear and confusion, especially around the idea that this could “strangle” baby. In this episode, we take a deeper look at what’s really happening.
In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I speak with Dr. Jessica Vernon. Dr. Jessica is is a mom of two and a board-certified OBGYN for over a d
Healing From A Cesarean with Sara Reardon and Jessica Reale - A Revisit
As roughly one third of American Babies are born via C-Section, Cesareans rank among the top surgical procedures given in the US. Since it’s such a common procedure, it can be easy to forget that it’s major abdominal surgery. New parents are sent home with the daunting task of caring for a newborn and healing from surgery often with little support.
In this episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, I sp
Birth Story: Preparing for One Birth, Facing Another: A Story of Strength and Healing with Renata Freitas
I always love connecting with members of the PYC community- students, alumni, educators, and everyone in between. Today’s guest shares a deeply personal and moving birth story filled with struggle, resilience, and heartfelt reflection.
Joining me today on Yoga | Birth | Babies is Renata Freitas. Renata is originally from Brazil and moved to the US for her MBA at Wharton, where she met her husba
Why Parenting Feels So Hard- and What You Can Do About It with Kat Sabath
Since becoming a parent, I’ve often wondered how our own stress from parenting affects our ability to actually parent. Today’s episode explores that connection through the lens of nervous system regulation- parenting edition.
Joining me today on Yoga|Birth|Babies is Kat Sabath. Kat is a therapist, coach, and yoga teacher who helps parents find fulfillment in family life. She’s the founder of Th
How to Prepare for IVF with Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh
There are so many factors as to why someone would take the IVF path, and so many factors in the process itself. So today’s episode is all about In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)- why people choose it, what the process involves, and how to prepare the body and mind for that process. We’ll also debunk common IVF myths, explore what to expect along the way, and shed light on so much more.
Joining me to
What We Don’t Tell New Parents: A Doctor’s Honest Look at Birth and Beyond with Dr. Jessica Vernon
Today we take a deep dive into the current postpartum system; cracks and gaps included. What are the biggest misconceptions around pregnancy and childbirth, and how do they affect birth and postpartum in this country?
My guest to have this conversation on Yoga| Birth| Babies is Dr. Jessica Vernon. Dr. Jessica is is a mom of two and a board-certified OBGYN for over a decade. She is an Associate
![Pregnancy and Parenting as a Millennial with Dr. Christine Sterling [Revisited!]](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/cc50c762-a373-11f0-9dd3-8b1225c830db/image/688be88bc02d55832b2bba97256c616d.png?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress)
Pregnancy and Parenting as a Millennial with Dr. Christine Sterling [Revisited!]
Today Did you know millennials tend to be more likely to have high blood pressure during pregnancy than previous generations? Why is it that millennials are having such a hard time as parents? Today’s podcast is for all those that were born between 1981-996; and those of you in Gen-Z, too.
To have this conversation with me on Yoga| Birth| Babies is Dr. Christine Sterling. Dr. Sterling is a boar
Birth Story: Finding Empowerment in a 36-Hour Labor and Unplanned C-Section with Jennifer Schaffer-Goddard
Today on Yoga | Birth | Babies, I have Jennifer Schaffer-Goddard to share her birth story. Jennifer is a critic and essayist living in Manhattan. Her first book, Make Me Feel Something: In Pursuit of Sensuous Life in the Virtual Age, will be published by Ecco and Hamish Hamilton in 2027.
Jennifer began taking classes at PYC at just 7 weeks pregnant and continued all the way up to her due date.
Weaning Your Baby or Toddler with Francie Webb
What are some reasons that parents decide to wean, and when?
Today on Yoga | Birth | Babies, Francie Webb and I get into all things weaning. Francie Webb is an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), and founder of Go Milk Yourself. In 2017, Francie published Go Milk Yourself: You Have Power. Express It! Her work has been featured in The Cut, Elle.com, Mashable, The View, an
From Reactivity to Resilience: A New Approach to Parenting with Dr. Amber Thornton
Today is all about parental dysregulation- what is is, how it shows up, and the impact it has on our children.
To have this powerful and insightful conversation with me today on Yoga | Birth | Babies, I have Dr. Amber Thornton, a licensed Clinical Psychologist and author of A Parent’s Guide to Self-Regulation: A Practical Framework for Breaking the Cycle of Dysregulation and Mastering Emotions
Revisit: How Much Does It Cost To Have A Baby In The US? with Dr. Ashley Burkman
Having a baby is expensive, but how much does it really cost? Even with insurance supporting you, there can be a number of surprising costs. So how can parents to be plan for the bill?
In today’s episode of Yoga|Birth|Babies I speak to naturopathic doctor Dr. Ashley Burkman whose personal experiences navigating health care costs have led her to speak on the topic of health care costs. Dr. Burkm
Birth Story: How a Calm Pregnancy and Supportive Team Led to Empowered Choices with Emily Silver
To share her birth story today on Yoga | Birth | Babies, I have Emily Silver. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Emily is 34 year old PYC alumni and Kindergarten teacher on the Upper West Side. She went to school at SUNY Brockport with majors in Dance and Interdisciplinary Arts for Children, and earned her Masters at Hunter College for Early Childhood Education.
Emily’s story is a lesson in recog
Thriving (not just surviving!) the First 6 Weeks with Jen Mayer
What is so overwhelming about the first 6 weeks of parenting? Well, to be honest, a lot! But it doesn’t have to mean struggling 24/7. In this episode, we dive into the preparation for parental leave, the logistics of preparing for baby, and setting up care in the postpartum period.
To tackle this subject today on Yoga | Birth | Babies I have Jen Mayer. As a parent of 2, Jen understands the cha
Kids, Screens & Sanity: Tech-Wise Strategies for Modern Parents with Ash Brandin
Feeling unsure about parenting in the age of screens? Wondering how to manage screen time battles, choose appropriate apps and games for kids, or decide when to introduce screens to your child? If so, this episode is for you.
To tackle this subject today on Yoga | Birth | Babies I have Ash Brandin, EdS. Ash is a public school educator of 14 years and the creator behind the educational Instagram
Are You A Helicopter Parent? with Dr. Susan Landers
Today on Yoga | Birth | Babies we're diving into the relatable and often challenging topic of helicopter parenting. Joining me is Dr. Susan Landers, a neonatologist, breastfeeding expert, and author- who brings over 30 years of experience working in the NICU.
Dr. Susan and I share an honest conversation, in which we cover how to recognize the signs of helicopter parenting, ways to set expectati
Birth Story: An Early Surprise; Life in the NICU with Allie Dunbar
Today on Yoga | Birth | Babies we have one of my favorites: a community birth story. My guest today is Allie Dunbar. Allie is an Actor, writer, producer and entrepreneur from Toronto, Canada. She lives in New York City with her husband Hamish and their amazing baby boy Monty.
Allie’s story is full of twists and turns: deciding to go to Canada to give birth, life in the NICU, and the transition
Induction: Yes, Maybe, or No? with Marley Hall - A Revisit
Today we are revisiting a popular episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies in which we dive into all things induction. My guest today is Marley Hall, a registered midwife, mother of five, and author of Midwife Marley’s Guide For Everyone – Pregnancy, Birth & The Fourth Trimester. She’s also a co-founder of NowBaby Live, which provides high quality antenatal education to expectant women and couples worldwi
Fitness, Weight Training and Pregnancy with Gina Conley
Joining me today on Yoga | Birth | Babies is the brilliant Gina Conley — perinatal fitness trainer, seasoned birth doula, mother of four, and founder of MamasteFit. She’s also the author of Training for Two. She is also the author of Training for Two, a powerful resource that provides evidence-based strategies for movement, pelvic health, and birth preparation.
In our rich and candid conversati
The Pediatrician-Parent Relationship and the Impact of Information Overload with Dr. Wendy Hunter, MD
Parents today are bombarded with advice from every angle- social media, friends, family, and news sources. It can be nearly impossible to know who to trust and what advice to follow… And furthermore how to discuss it with your pediatrician. In this episode, we discuss how to sift through the endless parenting information, as well as how to build a strong relationship with your pediatrician.
Joi
Birth Story: Trusting Your Gut with Paige Host
Today on Yoga| Birth| Babies, we have a special community birth story from Paige Host. Paige had been coming to PYC a lot during her pregnancy (and still is postpartum!) and served as a major support and friendly face to other students. Her story is inspiring as it revolves around the ideas of letting go of control and self-trust.
Paige has lived in NYC for over a decade, where she met her husb
Failure to Progress In Labor with Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins
"Failure to progress in labor. " Can we all agree this is a horrible name and can impact someone’s view of their ability to give birth!
For years, birthing people have been expected to follow “Freidman’s Curve” a standard set by a trial of only 500 participants conducted nearly 50 years ago. Recently, ACOG has set new standards. Unfortunately many hospitals and practices have been slow to put t
Red Flags of Postpartum with Sydney Pollack-Tobert, LCSW
Did you know that a reported 1 out of 5 people who give birth experience PMADs (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders)? However, the professionals I have spoken to believe the number is closer to 1 in 3. Today we explore the world of PMADs- how to recognize the line between baby blues and PMADs, when it might be time to seek support, and where to find the help you need.
Joining me today on Yoga|
Pushing with an Epidural with Erin Capnerhurst, RN
Even if a medical intervention isn’t in your birth plan, you should still be educated on it; because, at the end of the day, no one can predict their birth! Today is all about: epidurals.
Joining me today on Yoga| Birth| Babies, I have Erin Capnerhurst. Erin is a wife, mother of three, and a Registered Nurse who has been supporting families through pregnancy and childbirth for 15 years in the
Community Birth Story: A Mindful and Magical Birth with Agathe
Joining me today to share her birth story on Yoga| Birth| Babies, I have Agathe. Originally from Paris, Agathe moved to New York City nine years ago, where she met her husband and, in November 2024, welcomed their baby girl.
In this episode, Agathe opens up about the mindfulness practices she created throughout pregnancy in order to help navigate the anxiety she was experiencing during this tim
What's EFM and Do You Need It For Your Birth? with Caroline Jones
Today we’re diving into a topic I’ve wanted to explore for quite some time now: External Fetal Monitoring (EFM). I held off, however, because I wanted to ensure we had the right medical professional to guide us through this important conversation- and I’m thrilled to say that we do.
To have this conversation today with me on Yoga| Birth| Babies I have Caroline Jones. Caroline is a certified nur
Is That Normal? What To Expect From A Newborn with Dr. Tracey Agnese - A Revisit
Newborn babies have some peculiar quirks, habits, and bodily functions. If you’re entering parenthood unfamiliar with what’s normal and what isn’t you might be scared or deeply concerned by things that are pretty routine for new babies.
To have this conversation today with me on Yoga| Birth| Babies I have Dr. Tracey Agnese. Tracey received her undergraduate degree from the University of Delawa
Stress and Trauma and How It Impacts Your Birth with Ja'Neen Jenkins
In today’s episode of Yoga | Birth | Babies, we’re diving into some of the common—yet often overlooked—stressors of pregnancy. We explore everything from hormonal changes and PMADs (Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders) to the profound life shifts that come with this transition. We also take a closer look at trauma-informed care: what it really means, how trauma is defined, and how to effectively
Community Birth Story: From Anxiety to Joy! with Mia DiBiase
Today’s episode features one of my favorite kinds of conversations- a community birth story. It’s always such a joy to hear and share the birth stories of students I’ve had the honor of working with in class, throughout their pregnancies, and today’s story is no exception.
To have this conversation today with me on Yoga| Birth| Babies I have Mia DiBiase. Mia is 33 years old and lives in Jersey
What To Do When Motherhood Doesn't Come "Naturally" with Paige Bellenbaum
What do you do when motherhood feels challenging—when it doesn’t come as naturally as you expected? This episode was inspired by honest conversations in my prenatal yoga classes, where some students shared fears about entering parenthood. One even admitted, “I don’t know if I’m very maternal.” That vulnerability struck a chord, and I knew we needed to explore it further.
In this episode of Yoga |
Why Some Babies Fly Out and Some Stall with Lindsay McCoy
Today we are talking about stalling versus flow, in birth, and how your body’s balance, and alignment can play a major role in that process. What does it even mean to be balanced and aligned?
To have this conversation today with me on Yoga| Birth| Babies I have Lindsay McCoy. Lindsay McCoy is an exercise physiologist, an experienced birth doula, and a childbirth educator of 12 years. She combi
![[Revisit]: PPA/PPD Medication and Breastfeeding with Heather ONeal and Maureen Farrell](https://megaphone.imgix.net/podcasts/42eeb5e2-1fb1-11f0-ae19-3717c99033d6/image/d04e0e91240675df60a89ee1efd5febb.png?ixlib=rails-4.3.1&max-w=3000&max-h=3000&fit=crop&auto=format,compress)
[Revisit]: PPA/PPD Medication and Breastfeeding with Heather ONeal and Maureen Farrell
Taking medication while breastfeeding, even taking something as common as Tylenol can be controversial. So what about parents on or who need to start taking medicine like Zoloft, Prozac or other psychotropic medications? Is it safe for both parent and new baby? Today we’re going to talk all about postpartum anxiety and postpartum depression medication and breastfeeding. There are lots of thoughts,
Birth Story: Two Cesareans But Very Different Experiences with Laura Moore
Today, we’re diving into one of my favorite types of conversations- a community birth story. What makes this episode extra special is that it actually includes two birth stories. My guest reflects on both her first and second births, sharing how the challenges she faced during her initial pregnancy and postpartum experience shaped the decisions she made the second time around.
To have this conver
A Doula Should Not Be Your Sword and Shield! with Bec Conant
Many times, I hear my prenatal students express feeling disconnected from their care provider or uneasy about hospital policies. However, they’ve hired a doula in hopes that that will help them navigate and achieve the birth experience they want. Today, we’re diving into how and why birth preparation goes beyond simply hiring a doula.
To have this conversation with me today on Yoga|Birth|Babies I
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