Home Podcasts Start Smart: Fertility - Pregnancy - Hormone Health
Start Smart: Fertility - Pregnancy - Hormone Health

Start Smart: Fertility - Pregnancy - Hormone Health

Kristen Williams 10 Episodes May 19, 2026

Start Smart is a podcast about early pregnancy, fertility, and hormone health. Host Kristen Williams, CEO of Materna Health, talks with OB/GYNs, midwives, and mothers about symptoms, surprises, and rarely discussed experiences. Episodes cover topics from positive tests and first-trimester worries to Hyperemesis Gravidarum, spotting, and IVF. It offers facts, empathy, and judgment-free support for people trying to conceive, newly pregnant, or supporting someone through pregnancy.

Episodes

Why HG Isn't In Your Head: An ER Doctor on the Biology of Severe Pregnancy Nausea
Why HG Isn't In Your Head: An ER Doctor on the Biology of Severe Pregnancy Nausea May 19, 2026 28:04 Episode Description In this episode of Smart Start, Kristin Williams sits down with Dr. Rick Pescatore, emergency physician, founder of BellyMD, former Chief Physician for the Delaware Division of Public Health, and editor-in-chief of Emergency Medicine News. Together they unpack one of the most overlooked conditions in women's healthcare: hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). Dr. Pescatore shares what
Rethinking Fertility & Early Pregnancy Care with Dr. Julie Von
Rethinking Fertility & Early Pregnancy Care with Dr. Julie Von Feb 17, 2026 41:11 Summary In this episode of Smart Start, host Kristin Williams speaks with Dr. Julie Vaughn about the complexities of women's health and fertility. They discuss the importance of early pregnancy care, the role of nutrition and anemia in fertility, the impact of trauma, and the benefits of acupuncture and alternative medicine. Dr. Vaughn emphasizes the need for self-care and resourcing, the signific
The Mythology of Birth: A Conversation with Dr. Britta Bushnell
The Mythology of Birth: A Conversation with Dr. Britta Bushnell Jan 23, 2026 53:03 In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Britta Bushnell shares her insights on the transformative journey of parenthood, emphasizing the importance of mythology and psychology in understanding childbirth. She discusses the illusion of control that many expectant parents face, the significance of childbirth as a rite of passage, and the dynamics of family roles as new parents navigate their identiti
Iron Deficiency: A Silent Global Epidemic with Dr Michael Auerbach
Iron Deficiency: A Silent Global Epidemic with Dr Michael Auerbach Dec 14, 2025 37:51 In this episode, Dr. Michael Auerbach, a renowned hematologist and oncologist, discusses his extensive experience with intravenous iron therapy, debunking myths about its dangers and highlighting its efficacy. He shares insights on the importance of iron in pregnancy, the challenges of iron deficiency, and the need for updated guidelines in obstetrics. Dr. Auerbach also emphasizes the signific
Navigating Genetic Testing for Preconception & Early Pregnancy with Ushta Davar Canteenwalla
Navigating Genetic Testing for Preconception & Early Pregnancy with Ushta Davar Canteenwalla Nov 4, 2025 31:52 In this episode of Pregnant-ish, host Kristen Williams speaks with genetic counselor Ushta Davar Canteenwalla about the complexities of genetic testing during pregnancy. They discuss the importance of genetic counseling, the different types of genetic tests available, and the emotional and ethical considerations surrounding these tests. Ushta emphasizes the need for accessible genetic counseling a
Morning Sickness: Truths They Don't Tell You About Hyperemesis Gravidarum with Charlotte Howden
Morning Sickness: Truths They Don't Tell You About Hyperemesis Gravidarum with Charlotte Howden Oct 6, 2025 33:24 Hyperemesis Gravidarum is one of the most misunderstood and debilitating conditions in pregnancy. This episode brings to light the realities behind what many dismiss as ordinary morning sickness. Charlotte Howden, Chief Executive Officer of Pregnancy Sickness Support, shares her personal journey with HG and how it inspired her to lead the UK charity dedicated to supporting those affected. Together
Two Generations, One Battle: Hyperemesis Gravidarum
Two Generations, One Battle: Hyperemesis Gravidarum Sep 1, 2025 40:33 In this episode of Pregnant-ish, host Kristin Williams engages in a heartfelt conversation with Katherine Heimos, PhD, and her mother, Debra, about their experiences with Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). They discuss the challenges, emotional toll, and the importance of support systems during pregnancy. Katherine shares her journey of transforming her struggles into advocacy and education for others f
Fertility Facts with Dr. Barry Perlman, Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist
Fertility Facts with Dr. Barry Perlman, Board Certified Reproductive Endocrinologist Aug 4, 2025 41:01 In this episode, Materna Healthcare welcomes Dr. Barry Perlman, a board-certified reproductive endocrinologist at Damien Fertility Partners. Known for his ability to translate complex medical topics into accessible, often humorous content, Dr. Perlman shares his philosophy of care and the importance of meeting patients where they are—whether in the office or online. With a calm, grounded approach,
Early Pregnancy Symptoms: Morning Sickness, Spotting, Headaches,
Early Pregnancy Symptoms: Morning Sickness, Spotting, Headaches, Jul 8, 2025 59:30 Summary In this episode of Pregnant-ish, hosts Kristen Williams and Kristin Mallon, CNM Certified Nurse Midwife delve into the complexities of early pregnancy, addressing common symptoms, concerns, and the importance of preconception care. They discuss the normalcy of spotting, cramping, nausea, and fatigue, while emphasizing the significance of hydration and prenatal vitamins. The conversation al
Hyperemesis Gravidarum Warrior Turned Mentor with Dr. Kathryn Heimos
Hyperemesis Gravidarum Warrior Turned Mentor with Dr. Kathryn Heimos Jun 14, 2025 38:03 KeywordsHyperemesis Gravidarum, HG, pregnancy, maternal health, mental health, support systems, advocacy, early pregnancy care, emotional wellbeing, healthcare challenges   SummaryIn this episode of Pregnant-ish, host Kristen Williams speaks with Kathryn Heimos, a two-time survivor of Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). Kathryn shares her personal journey through the challenges of HG, emphasizin

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