No One Told Us

Episode 50: Feeding Toddlers: Finding Joy in Family Meals with Nita and Jessica of @happyhealthyeaters

Have you ever struggled with picky eating or stressful mealtimes? This is so common- feeding toddlers can be very challenging! In this episode, Rachael speaks with Jessica and Nita, co-founders of Happy Healthy Eaters, ALL about feeding toddlers to make mealtimes more enjoyable!

Here’s what they discuss inside this episode:

• The different challenges of feeding toddlers including “picky” eating or selective eating
• How and why it is important to trust your child’s eating preferences 
• How much food should your toddler actually eat?
• Tips for keeping your child engaged and interested in mealtime
• Guiding parents on allowing kids to eat when they're hungry and stop when they're full
• How valuable family meals can be for modeling eating behaviors and passing on cultural traditions
• Ways to adapt meals to fit each family's schedule and preferences
• Tips for adapting culturally appropriate meals for babies
• Facts about the food supply in North America and it’s safety
• When to seek support from professionals if a child's eating habits are severely challenging or interfering with their growth and development

Jessica and Nita are co-founders of Happy Healthy Eaters - a community dedicated to supporting parents in feeling relaxed and confident about feeding their child. They are both Registered Dietitians with a combined 25+ years of education and work. They started Happy Healthy Eaters in 2020 after Nita had her second baby with the hopes of supporting parents through these exciting milestones, minus ALL the misinformation. Their online course - Starting Solids Confidently- launched first and is widely popular and now they have a second course: Feeding Toddlers Confidently- which debuted after more than two years in the making!

Mentioned in this episode:

• Happy Healthy Eaters Website: https://happyhealthyeaters.com/ 
• Happy Healthy Eaters instagram: @happyhealthyeaters 
• Feeding Toddlers Confidently Course here Code for No One Told Us Listeners: HHE15 
• How to Keep Your Toddler at the Table 
• Blog Post: How to Adapt Recipes to be BLW Friendly

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram | Tiktok |  Website 

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Episode 49: Creating a Business and a Brand from Home with Tori Sprankel

Whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a mom who works outside the home, all moms are working hard! This week Rachael and friend Tori Sprankel, a brand expert and business owner, chat all about building a business while taking care of young children at home. They discuss the challenges and gray areas of being a working mom or a stay-at-home mom, and how the lines are blurred for so many of us in a post-pandemic world.

Here’s what they discuss inside this episode:

• Tori shares her personal journey of transitioning from a corporate job to becoming a stay-at-home mom in Hawaii to eventually starting her own business
• The importance of the people you surround yourself with while building your business
• Role reversal and who’s the breadwinner?! We discuss our stay at home dad husbands!
• The challenges and rewards of being a WFH mom
• Balancing motherhood, finding support, and overcoming mom guilt
• Creating a business (and a life!) that aligns with your values and goals
• & so much more!

Meet Tori Sprankle! She’s an expert at personal brands for go-to girlies + her obsession is turning that pretty little pinterest board of yours into the brand you’ve always dreamed of. She loves working with women who need that boost of brand magic to back up their killer service suite that the world desperately needs. She specializes in lighting-fast turnaround to help her clients show-up efficiently, confidently and consistently where it matters most these days: online. As a mom to two girls, she believes in showing them that corporate America isn't the only place to make a living - and that having the freedom and courage to change lives through your own dreams is worth more than any traditional career path.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Tori’s website: https://www.torisprankel.com/ 
• Tori’s instagram: https://www.instagram.com/torisprankel/ 

Check out Tori’s work in action on Rachael’s Instagram, in her Substack Nap Trapped, and on this very podcast (Tori designed our cover art!) as well as the HSB website.

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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Episode 48: Sleep Training: What we Know (and what we DON’T KNOW) from the Research with Amanda Ruggeri

This week Rachael and Amanda Ruggeri, a journalist specializing in psychology, parenting, and child development, discuss the ever controversial topic: sleep training. Amanda speaks about her articles on baby sleep and sleep training and the research behind them.

Here’s what they discuss inside this episode:

• Understanding biologically normal, healthy baby sleep
• The problematic messaging around sleep training
• Are we just extinguishing baby's signaling?
• Is sleep training truly teaching self-settling skills?
• Is the sleep quality or duration better for babies who are sleep trained vs not?
• The importance of providing parents with the full picture & allowing them to make informed decisions
• The cultural differences in attitudes towards baby sleep, bed sharing etc.
• Social media misinformation, biases and logical fallacies
• The problem with overly relying on internet “experts” and “data” for parenting decisions
• & so much more!

Amanda Ruggeri is a multi award-winning journalist specializing in psychology, parenting, and child development. She also covers media and science literacy, including on her Instagram page and in her column for the BBC, "How Not to Be Manipulated". As a triple-citizen who has lived in four countries, she's especially interested in breaking topics down from not only a scientific, but a cross-cultural, anthropological, and historical, perspective. Her stories on infant sleep - including the science of healthy baby sleep and what we do and don't know about sleep training - have been read by more than 3 million people worldwide. You can find her work most frequently on the BBC's science section, Scientific American, New Scientist, and the Jacob Foundation's BOLD.expert, as well as on her Instagram page @mandyruggeri.

Mentioned in this episode:

• Amanda's website: https://www.amandaruggeri.com/ 
• Amanda's instagram: @mandyruggeri 
• What really happens when babies are left to cry it out? 
• The Science of Healthy Baby Sleep 

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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Episode 47: Parenting Children with Disabilities with Kelley Coleman @hellokelleycoleman

This week Rachael and Kelley Coleman, author and mother, discuss parenting children with disabilities. 

Here’s what they discuss inside this powerful episode:

• Hear Kelley’s personal journey with parenting two kids: one with multiple disabilities and one with typical development
• Kelley shares her story about her son’s diagnosis and how it changed her as a parent
• Suggestions for parents who just received a diagnosis or are trying to receive a diagnosis for their child
• Ways for parents to feel empowered to speak up for their child
• Fostering communication with your child’s school team and others 
• Grieving the childhood you pictured for your kid 
• The ways your relationship with your partner can be affected by parenting a child with disabilities  
• How to talk to your kids about others with disabilities
• All about her book: Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child
• The importance of finding community of support and connecting with others who are in similar situations
• And so much more!

Kelley is a feature film development executive turned author and advocate for parent caregivers and individuals with disabilities. Her writing and advocacy draw upon over a decade of experience accessing the necessary supports for children with disabilities to succeed, including her own child. Kelley’s book Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Supports is available for preorder and will be released March 12th. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, two boys, and her son’s trusty service dog. 

Mentioned in this episode:

• Kelley’s Book:  Everything No One Tells You About Parenting a Disabled Child: Your Guide to the Essential Systems, Services, and Supports
• Kelley’s website: kelleycoleman.com
• Kelley’s Instagram: @hellokelleycoleman
• Welcome To Holland by Emily Perl Kingsley

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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Episode 46: “I Feel Like My Life has Changed and Yours Hasn’t” with Erin & Stephen Mitchell @couples.counseling.for.parents

Having kids changes your relationship. If you have ever felt misunderstood, disconnected, exhausted, and resentful towards your partner- you’re not alone- and this episode is for you! Join Rachael and Erin & Stephen Mitchell, husband and wife duo & authors of the new book Too Tired to Fight, as they talk all about relationships, specifically relationships AFTER kids.

Here’s what they discuss inside this episode:

• How and why having kids can change your relationship 
• Erin & Stephen share about their own relationship experience and struggles after kids
• The biggest struggles people have right after having a baby and why
• How to regulate your own emotions so you can communicate effectively with your partner
• Resentment- how to handle it and what to do about it 
• How to connect when you’re feeling exhausted & disconnected 
• Does all conflict have to be “bad”? When might it be time for therapy?
• Reshaping your frame of what connection is
• Sex & intimacy after kids 
• Will bed sharing ruin your marriage?
• The inspo behind their new book- Too Tired To Fight and how they wrote it together
• And so much more relationship advice!

Erin and Stephen are the cofounders of Couples Counseling for Parents, a company focused on providing access to research-informed, psychologically sound online education for couples. Both have a clinical education—Stephen, a PhD in medical family therapy, and Erin, a master’s degree in counseling psychology—and they have a combined 23 years of experience providing counseling and education. They have been married for 16 years and have three kids.

Mentioned in this episode:

Too Tired to Fight: PREORDER NOW!

Couples Counseling for Parents: The Podcast

Erin and Stephen’s website for their workshops & membership: https://couplescounselingforparents.com/ 

Erin’s Instagram: @couples.counseling.for.parents

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 45: Bridging Separation at Bedtime with Dr. Gordon Neufeld @neufeldinstitute

This week Rachael has a very special guest, Dr. Gordon Neufeld, to discuss the importance of attachment and the challenges parents face when it comes to bedtime and sleep. Dr. Neufeld is a renowned authority on child development and you will learn so much in this powerful episode!

Here’s what they discuss inside this important episode:

• How attachment is a fundamental aspect of child development
• Learn all about Dr. Neufeld's Model of the Six Stages of Attachment
• The crucial role parents play in providing the necessary conditions for children to grow up and develop their capacity to hold on when apart
• Why is society so focused on independence?!
• How quick-fix strategies often overlook the importance of preserving the connection between parents and children
• Bedtime challenges and separation struggles
• How parents can support their children by bridging the separation at bedtime
• And so much more! 

Dr. Neufeld has accumulated more than 40 years of experience as a clinical psychologist with children and youth and those responsible for them. A foremost authority on child development, Dr. Neufeld continues to be an international speaker, a best-selling author and a leading interpreter of the developmental paradigm. Dr. Neufeld has a widespread reputation for making sense of complex problems and for opening doors for change. While formerly involved in university teaching and private practice, he has devoted the best part of the last two decades to creating courses for parents, teachers and helping professionals. These courses are offered primarily through the Neufeld Institute – an online educational institute and world-wide charitable organization devoted to applying developmental science to the task of raising children. Dr. Neufeld’s life's work has been to help adults provide the conditions for children to flourish. He is a father of five and a grandfather to seven.

Mentioned in this episode:

Free resources from Dr. Gordon Neufeld:

https://neufeldinstitute.org/resources/free/

Online conference with Dr. Neufeld:

The Current Crisis of Well-Being: What's Happening to Our Kids? https://neufeldinstitute.org/conference-2024/

See presentations and talks from Gordon Neufeld: 

https://www.youtube.com/@neufeldmedia

Follow Dr. Gordon Neufeld's work on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NeufeldInstitute

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neufeldinstitute/

Dr. Neufeld’s Book: Hold Onto Your Kids

https://neufeldinstitute.org/resources/hold-on-to-your-kids-book/ 

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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Episode 44: Q&A with Rachael and her husband, Marley

Join Rachael and her husband Marley as they answer some of YOUR most asked questions this week, share a glimpse into their life at home, and more! 

Here is what they discuss In this fun episode:

• Marley gives an update on his recent stay-at-home dad life transition
• Rachael and Marley share how they decided to have a third baby
• How Marley handles Rachael’s trips away when he is solo with kids overnight
• How to gain confidence taking kids out solo

Marley is an LCMSW from San Francisco, CA and now a stay-at-home dad of three!

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram | Tiktok |  Website 

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Episode 43: Food Allergies and Sensitivities in Babies and Toddlers with Dr. Trillitye Paullin

If you have ever had a baby with food allergies, chances are you experienced many challenges with feeding your baby. This week Rachael is joined by Dr. Trillitye Paullin, a molecular biologist and mother of two. Rachael and Dr. Trill discuss food allergies and sensitivities in babies and children.

Here’s what they discuss inside this informative episode:

• Dr. Trill’s personal experience with infant food allergies 
• Find out how proteins from breastmilk transfer to babies 
• The different types of formula available and the reasons WHY your baby may need a certain formula
• Guidance for parents on when and how to switch formula
• Looking for food reactions in your child
• The difference between food allergies and intolerance
• The symptoms of food reactions in toddlers and older children
• Whether or not your child may grow out of an allergy
• How to find support resources available for navigating feeding challenges 
• And so much more!

Dr. Trill Paullin is a molecular biologist and mother to two beautiful daughters who had severe infant food reactions to proteins transferred from her diet to breast milk. While struggling through elimination diets to continue breastfeeding, she discovered that many parents experience the same troubling situation. Dr. Trill wanted to create a place for parents to find answers to their questions about infant food reactivity and empower them to reach their feeding goals. Her online platform Free to Feed was born to provide the research, resources, and support she wished they had early on. They have started this mission by creating an educational support package, tracking app, personal consultations, and an allergy friendly postnatal multivitamin. Free to Feed’s team is working hard towards launching an at-home test kit that will allow parents to analyze their breast milk for allergens.

Mentioned in this episode:

Dr. Trill’s Website

Diaper Decipher resource

Free to Feed Ap 

Instagram: @free.to.feed

COUPON CODE SLEEPYBABY for 20% off anything!

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram | Tiktok |  Website 

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Episode 42: Motherhood: Finding Joy and Authenticity with Caitlin Wilder @wilderbeginnings 

Motherhood can feel so exhausting, isolating, and divisive! It’s also portrayed on social media as just… not fun. Enter Caitlin Wilder. This week, Rachael is joined by Caitlin, a certified doula and mom of two turned social media “mom influencer” to have an open and honest conversation all about motherhood and postpartum realities. Caitlin created her following through sharing her journey of postpartum reality on Instagram and has taken off thanks to her refreshing blend of reality and positivity.. Rachael and Caitlin really MENTION IT ALL in this super cool (not uncool) episode:

Here’s what they discuss inside this insightful episode:

• How Caitlin’s authenticity and positivity about motherhood has created a strong & supportive community on social media.
• Her experience working at Bravo (!! my dream) before transitioning to the parenting and childbirth space as a doula, and the decision to not return to corporate work after having a baby
• The benefits having a doula can have on your birth experience 
• How to trust your instincts and not be too hard on yourself as a parent
• All about feeding choices, sleep etc. as parents- what’s with the divide?
• How to have “Second Time Mom Energy” the first time around!
• Of course- a little Bravo TV tea… we had to! Hear her behind the scenes opinions and find out what our favorites are and where to begin if you’re just starting your Bravo ✨journey!✨ 

Caitlin is a certified doula, childbirth educator, and mom of 2 who is doing her best to show the reality of postpartum on social media (the fun/difficult/unhinged and unwashed reality) all while encouraging others to shut out the noise and listen to their own parenting intuition! She started her account as a doula sharing realistic pregnancy advice, and has managed to build the most amazing community on Instagram. It's a mix of fun, education, mayhem, community, inspiration, and emotional violence (She can get very sappy). But all in all - it's a good time!! 

Mentioned in this episode:

Caitlin’s instagram: @wilderbeginnings

Book Caitlin as your Doula (LA area) here! 

Caitlin’s Merch here- Bad Moms + Babies Club

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram | Tiktok |  Website 

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Episode 41: Highly Sensitive Children: Tips for Parenting, Nurturing and Co-Regulation with Natalie Brunswick @highlysensitivefamily

We hear the term “highly sensitive” a lot these days- but what does being highly sensitive or having a highly sensitive child really mean? This week Rachael and Natalie Brunswick, a psychotherapist OT and parenting educator, dive deep into the characteristics of highly sensitive children (and parents!). You’ll learn all about the importance of understanding and supporting highly sensitive children, as well as the need for parents to do their own inner work. 

Here’s what they discuss inside this insightful episode:

• Natalie’s challenges with her colicky and sleepless baby, which led to her own postpartum PTSD diagnosis and a journey towards helping others
• All the amazing & unique characteristics of highly sensitive children
• How to help co-regulate and release stress for parents AND children
• Some of the challenges and difficult experiences that can come with parenting highly sensitive children
• Some potential ways to support highly sensitive children in school and social settings
• Tools for sensitive & neurodivergent parents to support the needs of their sensitive children
• Ways for parents to creatively meet their own needs 
• The grief that may arise during parenting 
• How to decide if and when you are ready for more children, particularly if your first was highly sensitive or you had a difficult time postpartum

Natalie is a psychotherapist, occupational therapist, parenting educator, mental health advocate, and mother of two exceptional boys. Like so many of us, she came into parenthood with an idea of what it would all look like. And, well, spoiler alert, it looked nothing at all like what she imagined! And so The Highly Sensitive Family was born. The Highly Sensitive Family is an online community with courses, workshops, and support for educating parents and helping others better understand their experiences, their stories, their nervous systems, their families, children & relationships, their dreams & passions.

Mentioned in this episode:

Natalie’s Instagram: @highlysensitivefamily

Natalie’s Website: https://highlysensitivefamily.com/ 

Natalie’s courses: 

• The Reparenting Masterclass 
• Raising Us: Community Membership
• I’d Love Another Baby, But…

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram | Tiktok |  Website 

Episode Sponsored By:

Mysteries About True Histories Podcast: 

Tune in every Thursday for a brand new episode of Mysteries About True Histories! This series is perfect for kids ages six and up. Even if your child hasn’t learned some of these concepts yet in school, the storytelling seamlessly plants the seeds for all kinds of math, history, geography and science lessons that will keep your little ones curious and excited to learn. Listen to the podcast here. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 40: Independent Play: Practical Strategies for Simplifying Play with Lizzie Assa @theworkspaceforchildren

Should parents play with their children? Or should children only play independently? Independent Play is such a polarizing topic! That’s why this week, Rachael and Lizzie Assa, founder of the Workspace for Children, talk all about the importance of play for children and how parents can foster the desire for a healthy balance between playing with children and encouraging independent play.

Here’s what they discuss inside this helpful episode:

• the benefits of independent play, starting from birth!
• HOW to begin fostering independent play skills
• the latest debate on social media: Should we play with our kids or not!?
• practical strategies for parents to create a conducive environment for play
• independent play is not about specific toys or aesthetics, but about understanding and connecting with each child's unique personality and interests
• the fear and guilt that parents can feel when their children are playing independently
• how parents can reduce “I’m bored!” pushback and avoid burnout
• Tips for using independent play to have a “quiet time” once your child stops napping
• And so much more!

Lizzie is the founder of The Workspace for Children, and has become a go-to strategist for parents seeking guidance in fostering independent play for their children. With a Master’s in early childhood education and a passion for simplicity and consistency in play, she offers practical solutions to avoid burnout and promote healthy development. Lizzie's insights have been featured on The Good Inside Podcast, Parent's Magazine, NY Times Parenting, Time, and The Wall Street Journal. She is set to release her forthcoming book, "But I'm Bored!": The Complete Guide to Independent Play for Kids Ages 1-8, which promises to revolutionize the way parents approach their children's playtime.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lizzie’s Audio Course and Companion Workbook: https://twfc.kartra.com/page/sales

Lizzie’s Instagram: @theworkspaceforchildren

Lizzie’s website: https://www.workspaceforchildren.com/

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram | Tiktok |  Website 

Episode Sponsored By:

Mysteries About True Histories Podcast

Tune in every Thursday for a brand new episode of Mysteries About True Histories! This series is perfect for kids ages six and up. Even if your child hasn’t learned some of these concepts yet in school, the storytelling seamlessly plants the seeds for all kinds of math, history, geography and science lessons that will keep your little ones curious and excited to learn. Listen to the podcast here. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 39: From One to Two: Rediscovering Yourself, Managing Expectations, and Splitting the Load with Cameron Oaks Rogers  @cameronoaksrogers

This week Rachael has on guest Cameron Rogers, a content creator, podcaster and mother of two! Cameron shares her journey to motherhood, including her transition from a career on Wall Street to full-time content creation. Recently a mom of 2, she discusses the challenges and surprises of transitioning from one to two children. Cameron also talks about the impact becoming a mom has had on her relationship with her partner and how they navigate the division of labor through the Fair Play method. 

In this candid conversation, Cameron shares openly about her mental health during pregnancies and postpartum, her decision to go alcohol-free and the journey to finding identity outside of motherhood. Find out how she deals with negative comments on the internet, why parenting each child differently has been so helpful, and the unexpected healing and challenges of parenthood!

Cameron Oaks Rogers is best known for her voice and relatable humor which carves out a safe space on the internet for mothers everywhere. She’s dedicated to dismantling the stigma surrounding mental health, and leveraging her platforms to foster an open dialogue within her closely-knit community about real life issues. Drawing from her fearless career journey, a notable five-year stint on Wall Street, and a robust entrepreneurial skill set, she’s earned recognition as one of Forbes' "Five Entrepreneurs Who are Changing New York’s Wellness Scene." Embracing the challenges of new motherhood, she has passionately shed light on her own experiences with pregnancy, postpartum depression, and the often unspoken or overlooked trials and tribulations of navigating the journey of motherhood, she’s also a recent mother of two!

Mentioned in this episode:

Cameron’s Instagram: @cameronoaksrogers

Cameron’s tiktok: @cameronoaksrogers

Cameron’s Podcast: Freckled Foodie & Friends Podcast

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram | Tiktok |  Website 

Episode Sponsored By:

Mysteries About True Histories Podcast: 

Tune in every Thursday for a brand new episode of Mysteries About True Histories! This series is perfect for kids ages six and up. Even if your child hasn’t learned some of these concepts yet in school, the storytelling seamlessly plants the seeds for all kinds of math, history, geography and science lessons that will keep your little ones curious and excited to learn. Listen to the podcast here. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 38: Advocating for Parental Leave in the US with Raena Boston @theworkingmomtras

Parental leave, or lack thereof, can be such a stressful part of the postpartum journey for new parents. That’s why this week Rachael has guest Raena Boston, co-founder of the Chamber of Mothers, on to discuss the importance of parental leave! Raena tells us about the work her organization is doing to advocate for better policies. She also shares her personal experiences with unpaid leave and the impact it had on her mental health. 

Raena highlights the barriers to passing legislation, including the lack of a strong lobby for parental care policies, and provides advice for parents balancing work and parenting.

Raena is a writer, an HR pro, and fierce advocate for parental leave which has led her to become a Co-Founder of the chamber of mothers… a collective movement all about advancing maternal rights. Raena also founded The Working Momtras, which is a community designed to help empower moms to resign from doing it all and release themselves from the pressures of mom guilt, guiding moms toward becoming more of who they already are. Raena is a space-holder, cheerleader, and conscientious connection-creator. Raena is also a mom of three!

Mentioned in this episode:

Raena’s Instagram: @theworkingmomtras 

Chamber of Mother’s Instagram Page: @chamberofmothers

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram | Tiktok |  Website 

Episode Sponsored By:

Mysteries About True Histories Podcast: 

Tune in every Thursday for a brand new episode of Mysteries About True Histories! This series is perfect for kids ages six and up. Even if your child hasn’t learned some of these concepts yet in school, the storytelling seamlessly plants the seeds for all kinds of math, history, geography and science lessons that will keep your little ones curious and excited to learn. Listen to the podcast here.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode 37: Splitting the Parenting Load with Betsi Flint @betsiflint

This week Rachael has on Professional beach volleyball player, Betsi Flint to talk about juggling motherhood and her demanding athletic career. Betsi discusses the challenges of balancing training and parenting, the importance of sleep for both her and her toddler, and the support she receives from her husband and family. 

Find out how splitting the parenting load has been beneficial to her and her family and how she splits parenting duties with her husband. Betsi shares all about the need for self-care and mental health in order to be a better parent. She also highlights the lessons she has learned as a mom athlete and the importance of pelvic floor therapy in her recovery. Betsi's story serves as an inspiration for other women to pursue their dreams after becoming mothers.

Betsi is a professional beach volleyball player, wife and toddler mom. She is a 6-time AVP Champion, 2-time AVCA All-American and is currently in the race toward the 2024 Paris Olympics while also balancing motherhood. Betsi is passionate about empowering women and mothers to follow their goals.

Mentioned in this episode:

Betsi’s IG page: https://www.instagram.com/betsiflint/ 

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram | Tiktok |  Website 

Episode Sponsored By:

Mysteries About True Histories Podcast: 

Tune in every Thursday for a brand new episode of Mysteries About True Histories! This series is perfect for kids ages six and up. Even if your child hasn’t learned some of these concepts yet in school, the storytelling seamlessly plants the seeds for all kinds of math, history, geography and science lessons that will keep your little ones curious and excited to learn. Listen to the podcast here. 

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Episode 36: Supporting Your Child’s Speech & Language Development with Katie & Carly of Wee Talkers @weetalkers

“Why isn’t my toddler talking yet?” “Should my child be saying more words?” “Is screen time OK for my baby?” If you have ever had these questions, you are NOT alone. Worrying about your child’s speech and language development is very common- and there is SO much scary info out there! Speech and language is such an important and complex piece of your child’s development. And spoiler alert- every baby is on their own timeline! 

It can be hard to know when you should and shouldn’t worry though. That’s why this week Rachael has special guests- Katie & Carly, pediatric speech language pathologists, owners of Wee Talkers, and mothers themselves on the pod! Katie & Carly educate us all about language and communication development in babies and toddlers. They discuss the importance of early intervention and provide tips for parents to encourage language development for their little ones! 

Katie and Carly address concerns about screen time and provide some helpful, guilt free guidelines for how to use screen time as a tool! Find out how responsive and nurturing interactions between caregivers and children helps support optimal language development and the benefits of shared experiences, and so much more! 

Mentioned in this episode:

Weetalkers Instagram

Free Baby Bundle

Toddler Course use code TOLDUS10 for $10 off 

Songs & Stories Membership use code TOLDUS10 for $10 off 

Free Milestone Checklist

How To Access Early Intervention

Cost and Alternative Options for Speech Therapy that Families Might not Know About

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources on infant and child sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram | Tiktok |  Website

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Episode 35: SIDS, Safe Sleep and Bed Sharing: Breaking Down the Stats with Shaelise Tor

In this episode, Rachel speaks with Shaelise Tor, a pediatric researcher and clinician, about the data on SIDS, infant sleep and breastfeeding, and bed sharing. The conversation covers the difference between intentional and unintentional bed sharing and the fear of judgment for parents who bed share. They discuss the misinformation and fear mongering surrounding these topics and the importance of breaking down the research to offer parents more compassion and nuance when it comes to safe sleep education.

Shaelise shares her background and how she became passionate about sleep and infant mental health, and discusses the benefits and challenges of working in a clinical pediatric setting. They discuss ways to prevent SIDS, including safe sleep practices and breastfeeding. Rachael and Shaelise emphasize the need for a more nuanced approach to bed sharing and the importance of social determinants of health. Learn how to intentionally, more safely bed share, what NOT to do, and much more in this important episode.

Disclaimer: This information in this episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please seek immediate care from your physician if you have any concerns about your baby or child’s health.

Mentioned in this episode:

Follow Shaelise on Instagram: @settled_and_soothed 

Safe Sleep Seven for Bed Sharing

New Study on Bed Sharing and SUID

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate 5⭐️ and write us a review! ⬇️

✨For sleep support and resources on infant and child sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow @heysleepybaby on Instagram! 😴☁️🤎✨

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page) | Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account) | Show Website (transcripts available here)

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Episode 34: Starting Solids: Stress Free Baby-Led Weaning & Tackling Picky Eating with Jenny Best, Founder of @solidstarts

Starting solids can be so exciting but also so nerve-wrecking as a new parent! Feeding can be just as divisive as sleep these days, and this week Rachael is joined by Jenny Best, the founder of Solid Starts, to talk about the “best” way to begin your little one on solid foods.  

Jenny shares her journey of being a mom while building a super successful resource for parents to prevent picky eating and find joy in feeding their children. She discusses the importance of responsive feeding and the benefits of both baby-led weaning as well as spoon feeding. Jenny also addresses the challenges faced by medical professionals in keeping up with rapidly changing research and the need for better communication between healthcare providers and parents. She emphasizes the importance of trusting your child and provides tips for easing anxiety when starting solids. 

Additionally, Jenny dispels common misconceptions about choking, the difference between toddler selectivity and severe picky eating, and more. You’ll hear some strategies for encouraging exploration and problem-solving at mealtime, and finally, Jenny shares her most important advice for new parents. 

Jenny is a mom of three on a quest to help parents prevent picky eating and find joy at the table together. Prior to launching Solid Starts, Jenny led communications at various food non profits and served many years in the NYC government. Before that, she was a professional ballerina with the New York City Ballet.

Mentioned in this episode:

Solid Starts instagram: @solidstarts

Solid Starts website: https://solidstarts.com/ 

Follow Jenny on Instagram: @jennysbeet

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website (transcripts available here)

If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review! xo

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Episode 33: Maintaining Intimacy After Kids with Vanessa and Xander Marin @vanessaandxander

In this episode, Rachael Shepard-Ohta speaks with Vanessa and Xander Marin, authors and husband and wife duo, all about intimacy, relationships, and their new book, Sex Talks! They discuss the inspiration behind the book and the importance of open and honest communication about sex and relationships. They highlight the conversations on emotional connection and pleasure as particularly important. They also address the challenges couples face during the roommate phase and provide tips for navigating different levels of readiness for intimacy. Hear their take on the benefits of couples therapy and alternative resources for couples seeking support. 

Meet New York Times Best Selling authors Vanessa and Xander Marin. She’s a sex therapist with 20 years of experience, he’s a regular dude, and together they wrote Sex Talks: The Five Conversations That Will Transform Your Love Life. They’re the shockingly open, slightly nerdy, and seriously funny couple you’ll be calling your new besties in no time. They share the ups and downs in their relationship while giving you step-by-step techniques for improving yours. Follow them on Instagram @vanessaandxander, and tune in to their podcast, Pillow Talks, for totally do-able sex tips, practical relationship advice, hilarious and honest stories of what really goes on behind closed bedroom doors, and so much more. It’s the sex education you WISH you’d had!

Mentioned in this episode:

Xander and Vanessa’s Instagram @vanessaandxander

Vanessa and Xander’s Online Courses: https://vmtherapy.com/courses

Rediscovering Us: Intimacy and Sex for Parents Course

Pillow Talks Podcast 

Sex Talks Book

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website (transcripts available here)

If you enjoyed this episode please rate and review! xo

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Episode 32: NICU Awareness: The Unique Challenges and Support Needed for NICU Babies and Parents

This week, we have our first TWO guest episode! Rachael has TWO amazing guests on to discuss all about the NICU. They offer unique perspectives from both professional and personal experiences. 

First, Rachael starts with Dr. Frankie Harrison. Dr.Frankie, a clinical psychologist and mom who had a premature baby, discusses the challenges and emotions associated with the NICU journey. She emphasizes the importance of raising awareness for the NICU and providing support for parents who have been through neonatal care. Dr. Frankie also highlights the high rates of mood disorders and PTSD among parents who have experienced the NICU and the lack of support available. She provides tips for self-care and coping with the challenges of taking a baby home from the NICU. Additionally, she discusses the common issues with sleep and feeding that NICU babies may face and emphasizes the importance of focusing on the parent-baby connection.

Our second guest, Abby Boursiquot, an SLP/CLC/feeding specialist, shares her personal experience and professional expertise on breastfeeding and feeding challenges in the NICU. She discusses how parents can encourage breastfeeding while in the NICU, including the importance of skin-to-skin contact and practicing latching. Abby also addresses the challenges parents may face when taking their baby home from the NICU, such as triple feeding and adjusting to a new feeding routine. She emphasizes the need for parents to prioritize their mental health during this time and seek therapy if needed. Abby offers insights on how friends and family can support NICU parents and highlights the importance of self-care. Lastly, she discusses the unique experience of time in the NICU and the uncertainty parents may face.

Dr Frankie Harrison is a clinical Psychologist based in the UK, and also a Mum who had a premature baby at 31 weeks. Her baby needed neonatal support when they were born and she struggled with the impact this had on her once home. She looked around, asked her doctor and found that there was limited support available for NICU parents. So she set up @miraclemoonuk on instagram and facebook, a supportive community for parents who have been through neonatal care and birth trauma. 

Abby is an SLP/CLC/feeding specialist and has worked in special care nurseries and NICU settings in Chicago and DC areas. She is now an infant feeding specialist, specifically for medically complex infants, managing the issues that can occur with prematurity and breast/bottle feeding efficiency issues including tongue ties. Personally, her 2.5 year old son was born at 35 weeks and was in the NICU for 3 weeks. She felt it was such a transformative experience especially as a first time mom, but also seeing the NICU from a personal lens after working there before. This experience further informed her perspective on the NICU and how we can improve the experience for postpartum parents.

Mentioned in this episode:

Dr. Frankie’s website 

Dr. Frankie’s Instagram @miraclemoonuk

Abby’s Instagram @ourvillageslp

Abby’s website

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website (check out our sponsors, episode details and transcripts available here)

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Episode 31: Fostering a Secure Attachment with Michelle Charriere @babiesandbrains

This week Rachael and guest Michelle Charriere, a birth to five mental health specialist, have a lighthearted but important discussion around attachment theory and its importance in parent-child relationships. Michelle explains the different attachment styles and emphasizes the need for repair in maintaining a healthy attachment relationship. She also addresses two of the most controversial topics on social media: daycare and sleep training. Michelle provides insights into choosing childcare options that support attachment and highlights the importance of observing and connecting with caregivers, and so much more.

Rachael and Michelle also have a little fun discussing their favorite topic- all things Bravo. Hear Michelle's opinion on the best housewives franchise to start with if you’re looking for a new show to binge, F**k, Marry, Kill with Bravo TV personalities, and more!

Michelle Charriere is a birth to five mental health specialist with a background in community behavioral health. She previously worked in-home with families involved in the foster care system, providing psychoeducation on attachment, trauma, and development to help caregivers better understand and support their children. She created Babies and Brains to reach more caregivers around the globe and she provides information and support through digital courses, guides, and social media content. 

Mentioned in this episode:

Michelle’s Babies and Brains IG page

Parenting Through Attachment Course

Childcare & Preschool Guide

New Sibling Guide

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website (transcripts available here)

If you enjoyed this episode please rate, review and follow! 😘✨

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Episode 30: Body Safety and Abuse Prevention: Keeping Kids Safe with Feather Berkower @parentingsafechildren

This week Rachael has a very important conversation with Feather Berkower, a leader and well known author in child sexual abuse prevention. Feather educates us on ways we can protect our children when we are not with them both by having tough conversations with adults and teaching them "body safety" and consent from the start. Feather emphasizes the importance of pushing through our own discomfort to have these tough conversations for the sake of our kids.

The uncomfortable truth is that most of us either are survivors or know a survivor of abuse. In this necessary episode, Rachael and Feather discuss the current stats for sexual abuse (which are shocking) and how to teach children protection skills without scaring them. Feather shares what makes a child most vulnerable to abuse, and the signs to look out for that abuse may have occurred. Feather also offers tips on ways we can speak to friends and family about the values we are teaching our children in relation to body safety and how to begin having conversations around this topic at a very young age. 

Feather is a licensed clinical social worker who holds a Master’s of Social Welfare from the University of California, Berkeley. She has been a leader in child sexual abuse prevention since 1985 and has educated nearly one-hundred fifty thousand schoolchildren, parents and youth professionals. Her well-regarded workshop, Parenting Safe Children, empowers adults to keep children safe from sexual assault. Feather co-authored Off Limits, a parenting book that will change the way you think about keeping children safe.. Feather makes this difficult topic less scary, and consistently impresses audiences with her knowledge, commitment, and warmth. 

Mentioned in this episode:

Join the Live Zoom Workshop for Parenting Safe Children in March & April: Sign Up here

Feather’s Book: “Off Limits: A Parent’s Guide to Keeping Kids Safe from Sexual Abuse”

Feather’s Instagram here

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website (transcripts available here)

** Don't forget to leave a rating and review if you enjoy this Podcast! Thank you so much! 🥰 **

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Episode 29: “Perinatal Mood Disorders Don’t Discriminate” with Jasmine @pearlsofjasmine

This week, Rachael and guest Jasmine discuss a very important and often stigmatized topic, postpartum mental health and perinatal mood disorders. Dr. Jasmine is a clinical pharmacist who is incredibly vulnerable and open in talking about her own experiences with postpartum anxiety, depression, and insomnia after the birth of her daughter and how that experience led to her decision to be “one and done”.

Jasmine shares her expert knowledge as a pharmacist and discusses the stigma of medications, the pros and cons of the "new" postpartum depression medication, and discusses her own decision to start medication after the birth of her daughter.

Find out some common misconceptions or stereotypes about perinatal mental health or treatments, how being an Asian-American woman influenced her during her postpartum experience, and how culture and representation is so incredibly important for women on this journey to not feel so alone. 

Jasmine is a clinical pharmacist and mom of one. She became very passionate about maternal mental health after she suffered severe postpartum depression, insomnia and anxiety shortly after having her child. As a healthcare provider, she never thought she would be affected by PPD because she assumed she’d recognize the signs and know how to ward it off. Writing about her journey on her blog and then sharing some of these moments on Instagram have been a way for her to heal and try to normalize mental health for other moms. Just a few months ago, she completed her perinatal mental health certification (PMH-C) to continue to educate herself further on perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.

Jasmine’s IG page: https://www.instagram.com/pearlsofjasmine/  

Healing the Tigress podcast IG Page: https://www.instagram.com/healingthetigress/ 

Referenced in this Episode:

Jasmine’s Newsletter about new treatment option 

Podcast Episode on Fatherhood in Postpartum

More on being “One and Done” 

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website (transcripts available here)

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Episode 28: Grandparents: Boundaries, Parenting Differences and Advice with John & Diane, Rachael’s Parents!

This week Rachael has two very special people in her life as guests- her mom and dad, John and Diane! Hear their real thoughts on Rachael’s viral "Boomer Advice" Tiktok, stroll down memory lane as they recount sleep and parenting in the late 80s and early 90s, and find out how they used to get their parenting advice.

John and Diane share their personal experiences around things like sleep training and cosleeping and the stigma it had 30 years ago. They talk about how the culture around parenting and sleep has changed over the years, give their honest thoughts on "gentle parenting", and answer questions from YOU, the listeners about how to set boundaries with parents and in-laws! John and Diane also share their biggest regret as parents- which Rachael heard for the first time during the interview- and let you know their biggest piece of advice as you navigate the early years of parenting.

John and Diane are Rachael’s Parents and parents to 2 other daughters. They are the loving grandparents of Rachael's 3 kids and live in Connecticut.

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website

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Episode 27: Understanding Your Fertility with Lisa Hendrickson-Jack @fertilityfriday

Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to your body, your period, and your fertility. This week, Rachael and Lisa Hendrickson-Jack, fertility educator and author of a new book,  Real Food For Fertility, chat all about fertility awareness, birth control, using your cycle as your fifth “vital sign”, and how to know if your period is “normal.” 

In this empowering episode, you’ll find out what a normal, healthy menstrual cycle looks like, if hormonal contraceptives impact fertility, and what is the pill actually doing in the body. They also discuss fertility awareness, how it can help improve a woman's chances of conceiving for the first time or after already giving birth, plus lots more valuable information!

Lisa Hendrickson-Jack is a certified Fertility Awareness Educator and Holistic Reproductive Health Practitioner who teaches women to chart their menstrual cycles for natural birth control, conception, and monitoring overall health. She is the author of three bestselling books The Fifth Vital Sign, the Fertility Awareness Mastery Charting Workbook, and her most recent book Real Food For Fertility, which she co-authored with Lily Nichols RDN. Lisa works tirelessly to debunk the myth that regular ovulation is only important when you want children by recognizing the menstrual cycle as a vital sign. Drawing heavily from the current scientific literature, Lisa presents an evidence-based approach to help women connect to their fifth vital sign by uncovering the connection between the menstrual cycle, fertility, and overall health. With well over 4 million downloads, her podcast, Fertility Friday, is the #1 source for information about fertility awareness and menstrual cycle health.

Mentioned in this episode:

Lisa’s website, Fertility Friday: fertilityfriday.com

NEW BOOK! Real Food For Fertility: realfoodforfertility.com

Lisa's book, The Fifth Vital Sign: thefifthvitalsignbook.com

Lisa’s Instagram: @FertilityFriday

Fertility Friday Podcast

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website (transcripts are available here!)

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Episode 26: "I Thought I'd Be Sleeping By Now" with Lauren Paley @lauren_paley

This week Rachael speaks with toddler mom, musician and content creator Lauren Paley. Rachael and Lauren dive into all things motherhood in this candid conversation, specifically sleep challenges. Lauren shares special glimpses into her experience as a first time mom including sleep (or lack thereof) and cosleeping, her best tips for exclusively pumping, and how she and her husband divide and share the load of parenthood. Lauren discusses having a "high needs" baby, her journey with postpartum anxiety and how it still shows up for her over a year postpartum. Hear how Lauren is navigating sharing her personal life on social media as a content creator with over 12 million followers across platforms.

Lauren Paley, otherwise known as “The Stairwell Siren”, is a music and lifestyle content creator best known for her beautiful and haunting covers recorded in her garage stairwell. This Titanic Hymn to the Sea cover was the video that went viral and “started it all” for her! Lauren lives in Nashville, TN, with her daughter Piper, 18 months, and husband Dan. When she isn’t posting music, she’s sharing glimpses of her personal life as a new mom to adorable 18-month-old Piper. Lauren's newest goal is to work on a Lullaby album for little ones- so stay tuned!

Lauren’s Instagram page: https://www.instagram.com/lauren_paley/ 

Lauren’s TikTok page: https://www.tiktok.com/@laurenpaley?lang=en

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website (includes transcripts!)

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Episode 25: Friendships: Finding Mom Friends, Friendship Breakups, and Modeling Healthy Friendships for Kids with Dr. Miriam Kirmayer

We’ve all heard how important it is to have your “mom circle” but has anyone else ever thought that this is actually really hard to find? If you’ve felt this, you’re not alone. Adult friendships can be really hard especially as new moms. This week Rachael speaks with Dr. Miriam Kirmayer to talk all about adult friendships. Find out why it is so hard to make new friends as an adult, how to navigate friendships when parenting styles conflict, and how attachment style can impact friendships. They chat all about the importance of friendships for moms and having a “circle” of other moms and some of the potential effects on people who don’t have connections. Find out some tips on ways to make and meet new connections, plus so much more!

Dr. Miriam Kirmayer is a clinical psychologist, leading friendship expert, and influential speaker on human connection and social support. With over a decade of research on the science of friendship, Dr. Miriam is revolutionizing the way we show up for, mentor, and connect with each other. She is one of the first and only clinical psychologists to specialize in adult friendship and shares guidance on navigating friendship and relationship challenges with tens of thousands of people through her popular online community. She is also a mom of two.

Instagram (@miriamkirmayer): https://www.instagram.com/miriamkirmayer/

Facebook (@miriamkirmayer): https://www.facebook.com/MiriamKirmayer

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/miriam-kirmayer

Learn more about her NEW course, Confidently Connected: Building Meaningful Friendships here!

Register now until Sunday, February 11th at 9:00 pm EST! Registering for the course gives you access to…. The Friendship Forum! The live workshop that kicks off the course the evening of February 13th at 8:00 pm EST.

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website

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Episode 24: Healing Birth Trauma with Illiyin Morrison of @mixing.up.motherhood

This week Rachael and special guest Illiyin Morrison discuss birth trauma and some ways in which pregnancy and birth trauma can manifest. Find out how birth trauma can impact early experiences of parenting and what kinds of support partners, family members and friends can provide to best support someone who has experienced birth trauma. Illiyin even gives us an inside look at her personal journey and experiences with each of her pregnancies, births and postpartum recovery period. Rachael and Illiyin also discuss if a birth plan is really necessary, if a doula is truly worth it, why people who experience birth trauma may have PTSD, and so much more!

Illiyin is a midwife, birth debrief facilitator, author and mom of 2. After working as a midwife in a busy hospital in south London, she left to embark on this journey to support those in perinatal trauma. Informed by her own birth experience, Illiyin is dedicated to supporting women and their families to overcome difficult perinatal experiences. On Instagram at Mixing Up Motherhood, Illiyin discusses all things motherhood, pregnancy and childbirth and maternal mental health, and empowers women through education.

To learn more:

Illiyin’s Instagram

Illiyin’s Book: The Birth Debrief

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website

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Episode 23: Car Seat Safety with Jamie Grayson of @thejamiegrayson

Have you ever been so overwhelmed by the amount of gear and products out there for your baby? Join Rachael and guest, Jamie Grayson, as they discuss all things baby gear safety. Find out key considerations parents should keep in mind when selecting a car seat, when to switch from an infant seat to a convertible car seat, tips for ensuring a secure installation, as well as some misconceptions about the "best" car seats, extended rear-facing and more. Get advice for when you need to travel with car seats and some general guidelines or recommendations for reusing and cleaning a car seat for a second or third child, plus so much more! In the last half of the episode, we take your questions and Rachael shares one of the scariest moments she's had as a parent.

Jamie Grayson started as a product demonstrator and personal shopper at buybuyBaby in Manhattan, as well as at NYC's top birth education center, and quickly became one of the most well-respected experts in the baby gear and child safety space. Jamie is dual certified in Child Passenger Safety in both the US and Canada. Now based in Denver, Colorado, Jamie is passionate about helping parents make decisions on the best baby gear for your family through honest and entertaining product testing, reviews, and parenting events both virtual and in-person.

We start the episode with a little Taylor/ Travis talk.. skip ahead to 5:30 if you're not a Swiftie (but how dare you!?).

Jamie’s Instagram and Tiktok

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website  (find transcripts here!)

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Episode 22: Nurturing the Infant Brain with Neuroscientist Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum

Join Rachael and Neuroscientist, Doula, Infant Sleep Educator, Author and Parent Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum, whose mission is to teach the science and support the art of nurturing infants. 

In Dr. Greer's new book The Nurture Revolution, she discusses the act of "nurture" for our children as a revolutionary act, and discusses how nurture is a preventative medicine against mental health issues. She challenges the idea that the way to cultivate independence is through letting babies cry it out or sleep alone; instead, the way to raise a confident, securely attached child is to lean in to nurture, to hold your infant as much as you want, support their emotions, engage in back-and-forth conversations, be present and compassionate when your baby is stressed, and share sleep. Research has proven that nurturing experiences transform lives. Nurturing is a gift of resilience and health parents can give the next generation simply by following their instincts to care for their young. 

Rachael and Dr. Greer discuss how to nurture the infant brain and foster healthy attachment, sleep and sleep training, repairing with our children and so much more in this powerful episode.

Nurture Neuroscience Parenting IG page: https://www.instagram.com/nurture_neuroscience_parenting/

Grab the Book: “The Nurture Revolution: Grow your baby’s brain and transform their mental health through the art of nurtured parenting”

Check out “Nurture Stories” series on her IG page, members of her community submit their nurture stories and talk about the value of nurture in parenting.

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website

For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

Please follow & subscribe to No One Told Us and if you enjoyed this episode- leave us a review! 

This podcast does not contain medical advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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Episode 21: How Culture Affects Our Parenting with Melina Gac Levin of @parentpueblo

Join Rachael and guest Melina Gac Levin, as they have important conversations around culture and how it shapes the way we view our kids and parent. They discuss what conversations parents should have with each other before they have kids about how each culture may impact their parenting and hear some advice Melina would offer to parents who come from different cultural backgrounds who are navigating potential conflicts or differences in parenting approaches. They chat about some strategies for parents who want to blend different cultural parenting approaches and traditions and how cultural values and beliefs influence the way parents make decisions about their children’s sleep, language, behavior, plus so much more!

Melina is an early childhood development specialist, graduate professor, writer, and mother. She lives in Brooklyn, New York with her husband, Mike, and their two daughters. Melina’s professional background is as an educator and she spent over 10 years in the classroom. She holds dual masters in Infant and Family Development, Early Intervention & Early Childhood General and Special Education from Bank Street, where she now teaches graduate students in education and social work all about infant development. She is also the founder of PUEBLO which equips multicultural parents with the skills and knowledge to parent confidently together.

Freebie on discovering Your Parenting Values: designed to help couples understand themselves and each other, so they can have more nuanced and productive conversations moving forward

Pueblo Website: https://www.parentpueblo.com

Melina’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentpueblo/ 

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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Episode 20: Potty Learning and Supporting Your Child’s Pelvic Floor Health with Quiara Smith, Pediatric Occupational Therapist of @alohaintegrativetherapy

Join Rachael and guest Quiara Smith as they dive into this much-requested topic and discuss common issues parents face when potty learning- like constipation, poop withholding, bed wetting and more! They also cover Pediatric Pelvic Health Occupational Therapy and how it differs from other forms of OT for children. Learn what parents can expect from the therapy process and some common pediatric pelvic floor issues that parents might not be aware of and how can OT help address them!

Find out if there really is a "perfect age" for potty learning and how to approach potty learning with neurodivergent children. Learn all the signs for readiness for potty learning, the best foods and hydrational supports for your child’s digestion- plus so much more!

Quiara Smith has been practicing as an Occupational Therapist for over 13 years in both California and Hawaii, working in various settings and with infants, toddlers, children, and adolescents with various medical conditions and diagnoses. Realizing the social, emotional, and psychological challenges that pelvic floor dysfunction and toileting difference places on children and families, Quiara decided to narrow her private practice to exclusively treating children and adolescents with pelvic floor dysfunction and toileting challenges. In 2017, Quiara opened the very first boutique private Pediatric Pelvic Health Occupational Therapy practice of its kind in the United States. She is an expert and pioneer in the field of Pediatric Pelvic Health Occupational Therapy. Quiara has created potty training courses for parents and caregivers, and has also created courses for healthcare providers focused on her holistic and integrative approach to pediatric pelvic floor dysfunction and toileting differences. Quiara is a national and international presenter and speaker on this specialty area of pediatric pelvic health OT practice. 

Quiara’s online self-paced potty learning course offered through Tinyhood linked here.

Quiara’s 1:1 pediatric pelvic health parent coaching virtually and in person at her Santa Rosa, CA clinic website here. 

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

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Episode 19: Teaching Kids to Love Reading with Beth Gaskill of @bigcityreaders 

Join Rachael and Miss Beth as they talk all about our children learning to read! Hear some strategies and techniques for fostering literacy skills in kids and the importance of infusing fun into learning to read. You’ll learn about The science of reading (did you know it was a science!?), the evolving understanding of how children best learn to read, and how you can help be an advocate for your child. Rachael even shares about her experience as a public school teacher teaching reading for over 10 years as well as her oldest child's recent entry into the public school system.

They also chat about Kindergarten "Redshirting," how to instill early literacy skills and a love for reading in our children, how to talk to our kids after school, plus so much more!

Beth Gaskill, known by her community as Miss Beth, is trained in the science of reading, the Orton Gillingham approach and is a multi sensory literacy instructor and a former early childhood and elementary school teacher. She founded Big City Readers to create a space for families to come together, understand how to teach their kids in the unique ways they are wired to learn, not just how to teach reading, build community AND have fun. 

Big City Readers On Demand Video Courses for babies, toddlers + kids

Beth’s Podcast: Play on Words 

Podcast we mentioned: Sold a Story

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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Show Website (Transcripts available!)

For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

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Episode 18: Emergencies, Injuries, and First Aid with Dr. Nkeiru Orajiaka, Pediatric Emergency Room Doctor

Nobody ever wants to take their child to the emergency room, but the reality is, it can happen to the best of us! So this week, join Rachael and special guest, Dr. Nkeiru Orajiaka, a Pediatric ER Doctor, as they discuss all things emergencies and safety for our children. Dr. Orajiaka shares some tips for parents to prevent common accidents and keep children safe at home. You won’t want to miss her discussion about head bumps, drowning hazards, and safety proofing. Dr. Nkeiruka also shares a GREAT piece of advice for parents who trying to decide if a symptom or injury warrants a trip to the emergency room or not.

Dr. Nkeiru Orajiaka is a board-certified Pediatrician, Pediatric ER doctor, public health physician, wife and mom of 3. Dr. Orajiaka completed her Masters in Public Health at the Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, New York and her residency at Columbia University affiliation at Harlem Hospital. She currently practices as an Pediatrics ER fellow in one of the largest emergency rooms in the US. She is a passionate health educator and a strong advocate for children's health and safety.

Dr. Nkeiru’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4Hbqdxg9xMYHDgKahCoDZA 

Ebook on First Aid: https://drnkeiru.com/first-aid-kit/ 

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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Show Website (transcripts available!)

For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

Disclaimer: This episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please seek immediate care from your physician if you have any concerns about your baby or child’s health.

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Episode 17: Stay at Home Dad Life with Rachael and her husband, Marley

This episode is a sneak peak into the recent decision for Marley to leave his job so that Rachael could run HSB and NOTU full time. Join your host Rachael and her husband Marley as they debrief about the decision for Marley to leave his Social Work job to become a SAHD. Rachael and Marley discuss what ultimately made them choose this arrangement, what Marley did for work before and what he may do in the future, and more. Marley also gives tips for other dads out there on how to gain confidence with taking your little ones out on your own, dealing with parental preference, and more.

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Marley is LCSW and San Francisco's newest SAHD!

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For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

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Episode 16: Navigating Screen time for Your Kids with Ash Brandin of @thegamereducator 

We have all done it. We give our kids screen time, and then the guilt sets in. Maybe you even feel like you did something bad by allowing them to use screens. If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. Navigating screen time can be such a challenging part of parenting! This week, join Rachael and Ash Brandin, middle school teacher and educational content creator, as they chat about how to find a balance with screen time. They discuss some strategies for parents to foster a healthy relationship between children and screens plus some guilt-free screen time strategies. They also talk about a lot of the common worries parents have surrounding screen time plus chat about some other things we don’t notice that may be worth paying more attention to!

Find out how parents can actually view screens as a tool they can use! Ash provides perspective on "screen equity" and the systemic support that would allow more parents to limit screen time (and why in its absence, families need to figure out what works for them). Learn how to support children who are dysregulated from gaming or screen time and how to Identify age-appropriate content and boundaries around screens, plus much more!

Ash is a middle school teacher with over a decade of teaching experience. They believe video games can be part of kid’s lives without being the center of their lives, and screens should be used in a way that benefits whole families. They are an educational content creator, whose Instagram page, The Gamer Educator, is a wealth of information about all things technology and children, supporting and empowering parents since 2021. 

Ash’s website- The Gamer Educator

Kids show & movie recs

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

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Episode 15: How to Fight for your Rights at Work with Daphne Delvaux of @themamattorney

Join Rachael and Daphne Delvaux as they talk about women’s rights in the workplace, family leave policies in the US and more. Daphne is an award-winning trial attorney and has even founded her own law firm devoted to women's rights at work. This episode is so powerful and informative for anyone who has a job and is planning on being pregnant, has been pregnant in the past, is back to work and pumping, or is an employed parent. Feeling empowered by knowing all your rights and options can take a lot of the unknown out of the equation and help you to plan for the future!

In this episode we discuss the most important things to line up before and after you announce your pregnancy, advice on when to announce pregnancy at work and when you should ask about maternity leave and partner’s leave. Daphne gives an overview of legal protections in place for working moms- such as maternity leave, breastfeeding and pumping accommodations, discrimination prevention, family and medical leave and flexible work arrangements. We also discuss navigating pregnancy-related discrimination, including unfair treatment and wrongful termination, and how to navigate this, plus tips for negotiating family-friendly policies for a better work-life balance and managing the transition back to work after maternity leave ends.

Daphne Delvaux, Esq. is an award-winning trial attorney and Founder of Delvaux Law, a law firm devoted to women's rights at work. She has been recognized by major news outlets (both nationally and internationally) as a leader of the women’s rights movement, and has received the award of Outstanding Trial Lawyer for winning an equal pay trial.

Delvaux is also the creator of the Mamattorney, a platform on a mission to educate women on their rights at work and teach them how to advocate for their needs so they can receive more financial freedom and time freedom without sacrificing their career goals or ambitions. Daphne is routinely seen as the expert on pregnancy and postpartum discrimination as well as maternity leave regulations. Daphne is on a mission to help ambitious moms achieve professional homecoming.

The Mamattorney Academy membership here

Employment Rights Guide

20% off all Coterie diapering products (diapers, wipes, pants) for first time customer orders of $40 or more. Use for subscription or one-time purchase. Code: NoOneToldUs

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast.

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Show Website

For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

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 Episode 14: Preparing for Travel, Sleep, or Stress over the Holidays with your host Rachael Shepard-Ohta (of Hey, Sleepy Baby)

The holidays are approaching and for a lot of us that means traveling, changes in routine, and big expectations. It can be SO hard feeling the pressure of wanting to create perfect memories and have fun because really it’s a lot of work (and doesn't always go according to plan)! Join me this week as I talk all about what we do as a family to prepare for traveling, being around family, and of course, sleep. Plus I take some listener questions about dealing with in-laws and more!

In this episode I talk about what you can and cannot control and how to prep your child beforehand for travel. If you are dealing with time change, I give you tips and tricks to handle that. Holidays can be a time where you may have to set boundaries with family and friends beforehand so I discuss how to get on the same page as your partner so you can work together as a team! Lastly, I talk about how your child's temperament can affect traveling plus how you can still try to maintain routine while away from home!

COTERIE 20% off all diapering products (diapers, wipes, pant) with a minimum spend of $40 for new customers on one-time OR subscription with code NOONETOLDUS at checkout!

Blog Post on Best Travel Crib for Baby

Blog Post on Jet lag

Blog Post on My Best Tips for Traveling with Your Kids and Toddler

Free Traveling with Your Baby PDF Guidebook

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

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For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

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Episode 13: Managing Sensory Overwhelm in Parenthood with Larissa Geleris of @steadyparents

Disclaimer: This episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please seek immediate care from your physician if you have any concerns about your health.

Picture this: you’re cooking dinner, the oven fan is blasting, your baby is crying, your toddler is playing with a noisy toy, and your partner is trying to talk to you. You are filled with overwhelm and overstimulation and maybe even rage. If this sounds like you, you are NOT alone. In fact, this is such a normal response to what is happening around you! This week join Rachael and Larissa to talk all about the over-stimulation, overwhelm, and dysregulation parents experience all the time! They dive deep on how to truly empower parents and help them feel confident and steady in their parenting journey.

In this episode, Larissa educates us on understanding sensory overwhelm and the effects of the intense sensory demands of parenthood! She provides us with practical, easy, and quick sensory strategies for times of dysregulation plus how to set yourself up for success and have less times of overwhelm! We talk all about being "touched out" and what to do when you just feel like you have reached your limit. Most importantly, Larissa discusses self compassion as it relates to self regulation and how to coregulate for your baby when you’re barely holding it together yourself!

Larissa is an occupational therapist specializing in identifying and treating sensory processing dysfunction. She began her career in pediatrics, but after suffering a major concussion, she had to take some time off work due to her own sensory dysfunction. As she recovered, she shifted focus to parents, realizing just how much she was using her OT knowledge and skills on herself as an overstimulated parent.

Founder of Steady Parents, Larissa is passionate about supporting parents who are experiencing overstimulation, overwhelm, and dysregulation to help them feel confident and steady in their parenting journey. Larissa offers 1:1 coaching to help parents tune in to themselves, feel empowered to do the things that are meaningful to them, and explore practical and sustainable ways to care for themselves, while caring for their family. You can find her online program: Sensing Your Needs in Parenthood, a self-paced online program that you can turn to for practical, effective strategies to employ in daily life, participate in your role as a parent, and experience the joys of parenthood the way they’re meant to be experienced.

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

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For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

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Let’s Normalize Caring For Your Pelvic Floor with Dr. Sara Reardon of @the.vagina.whisperer!

Disclaimer: This episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please seek immediate care from your physician if you have any concerns about your health.

Join Rachael and Dr. Sara Reardon as they talk about pelvic floor care before, during and after pregnancy. Dr. Sara Reardon is a mom of 2 and a board-certified pelvic floor physical therapist who has worked with thousands of women for over sixteen years to heal and care for their pelvic floor. SO many of us struggle with pelvic floor issues and are either not receiving the proper care and attention or feel too embarrassed to even seek out help. Dr. Sara Reardon aims to be a support and create a space where we can get the care we deserve!

In this episode we discuss what the pelvic floor actually is and the importance of pelvic floor therapy before and after childbirth and postpartum recovery. We dive into all the things to keep in mind for intimacy and exercise postpartum and when Dr. Sara recommends resuming sex and working out. We also talk about how to take care of your c-section scar, as well as birth, and how it affects your pelvic floor. Sara also shares what she wishes she knew before having kids!

Dr. Sara Reardon is a board-certified pelvic floor physical therapist, wife and mom of 2. Her instagram page, The Vagina Whisperer, is a go-to resource for taking care of your pelvic floor before, during, and after pregnancy. Since 2006, she has worked with thousands of women suffering from pelvic floor problems which inspired her work on The Vagina Whisperer. She created and launched a V-Hive Membership which is an online, on-demand pelvic floor fitness program, just three 10-minute workouts a week with minimal equipment. Her website has tons of free resources, such as the Pelvic floor guide as well as options for booking 1-1 telehealth appointments with pelvic floor therapists. 

COTERIE 20% off all diapering products (diapers, wipes, pant) with a minimum spend of $40 for new customers on one-time OR subscription with code NOONETOLDUS at checkout!

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

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Episode 11: Making Healthy Eating Fun for Kids with Katie Marston, Mom of 2 and Chief Marketing Officer at Once Upon A Farm

Disclaimer: This episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please seek immediate care from your physician if you have any concerns about your baby or child’s health.

Join Rachael and Katie Marston as they talk about starting little ones on solid foods, feeding pressure and misconceptions and more! Katie is a mom of 2 and CMO at Once Upon A Farm which makes organic snacks and meals trusted by parents and loved by kids and parents. Rachael and Katie dive into healthy eating with kids, some of the common myths around feeding babies, and the important role early exposure plays in your child’s relationship towards food!

In this episode we discuss how to get your children interested in food and how to seek out options for feeding and find what works best for your family. Katie answers some popular questions like do you have to choose between BLW or purees or can you do both? And when should you introduce sugar and other treats? We discuss ditching "perfectionism" when it comes to feeding your child and the importance of allowing for fun and sensory play when eating! Katie teaches us how a strong microbiome affects our overall health and the impact of food insecurity and poverty in the US. Plus Katie shares about her own parenting journey as a working mom of 2!

Katie is a lover of creativity, laughter, and a good challenge. Possessing these traits has served her well as she has successfully navigated her 20+ year career in a variety of roles, countries, and industries. She has had the great fortune to develop brand strategies for both small- and large-scale companies, even rolling up her sleeves as an entrepreneur with her own consulting business. This background has laid the perfect foundation for her current role as Chief Marketing Officer for Once Upon a Farm where she has been for 3 years.

Katie’s love of health-conscious brands began during her early years at Adidas where she spent 12 years in their Portland, Amsterdam, Herzogenaurach, and Carlsbad offices. Katie currently lives in Portland, Oregon with her husband Brad and their two kids.

Get started with Once Upon a Farm today and enjoy an additional 40% off your first order – subscription or one time purchase! Use code NoOneToldUs40 at OnceUponaFarmOrganics.com

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

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Episode 10: Perspective is Everything with Hunter & Cam Premo of @hunterpremo and @cameronpremo owners of Premonition Goods

This week on the podcast Rachael has well known-instagram husband and wife duo, Hunter & Cam Premo as guests! They talk all about the parenting transition from 1 to 2, why they co sleep and how it works for their family, and the importance of perspective while navigating not only parenting but also social media. 

Join us to talk about how Cam & Hunter prepared for the transition from 1 to 2 kids and why cosleeping works for them. Hunter shares how impactful the power of your own intuition when parenting is. They also discuss their favorite ways to support mom's during postpartum plus how a child’s temperament affects parenting style. Hear firsthand from Cam & Hunter about what it's like working with your partner & so much more!

Hunt er is a fashion and lifestyle influencer from Nashville, you can find her instagram @hunterpremo. Cameron is a professional photographer and videographer, you can find his instagram @cameronpremo. They are high school sweethearts who are now married and parents to two adorable boys, Remy & Radner! They recently launched Premonition Goods together which is an online mercantile featuring high quality handmade goods to wear, use, and gift.

To find the courses discussed in this podcast, you can visit Dr. Becky’s website here or click on the following links to view the courses:

• Dr. Becky Deeply Feeling Kids Workshop
• Dr. Becky Adjusting to a New Sibling 

To get 10% off your next order from Bodily use the code: NOONETOLDUS for 10% off of orders of $100 or more! You can also click on the link here to use the discount code!

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

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For more on cosleeping, biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

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Episode 9: Toddler Sleep Can Get Worse? Solo with Rachael

Are you struggling with bedtime battles, nap refusals, or other struggles with your toddler or preschooler? SAME. In this episode Rachael gets real about what she’s currently dealing with having a three year old with some very strong opinions. She talks about the REAL reasons so many little kids struggle with bedtime and naps, plus takes listener questions!

In this episode you’ll hear about why little kids often have a hard time going to bed and all the power struggles and testing limits that happen at bedtime. I will explain how to use connection to your advantage for a smoother evening and how to move away from bed sharing with your toddler or preschooler. I tell you my thoughts on providing bedtime snacks and answer the popular question: are toddlers being manipulative? I also discuss when and how to drop the nap, plus much more!

Blog Post on Bedtime Snacks (with snack ideas!)

Blog Post on “Fighting Sleep” and Bedtime Battles in babies and toddlers

FREE Nap Transition Guide, Including how to start "Quiet Time"

For more about Toddler Bedtime Struggles, check out the Better Bedtimes Guide from HSB, and get $10 off for listening to this episode! Use code BEDTIMESPOD

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

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Show Website (Transcripts Available!)

For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram. This podcast does not contain medical advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

Please follow & subscribe to No One Told Us and if you enjoyed this episode- leave us a review! 

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Episode 8: How Hard Breastfeeding Can Be with Kelly Kendall of @thebalancedboob

Have you ever heard things like that it’s normal for breastfeeding to hurt? Spoiler- it’s not. This week, host Rachael and her guest, IBCLC Kelly Kendall, bust lots of myths about breastfeeding, mastitis, clogged ducts, and more. They talk about how to source good quality information on the internet and how you can support yourself and prepare for your breastfeeding journey before baby is even here! The goal of their discussion is to give hope through education about our bodies and how feeding babies works so people can be empowered to make decisions that work for them.

Join Rachael and Kelly to talk about how to empower yourself and be proactive with support postpartum. Kelly busts myths about mastitis, clogged ducts etc. and tells us the importance of learning hand expressions before birth! We discuss the impact of self-compassion during feeding challenges and what to do if you're feeling pain. We dive into all about the basics of milk supply and regulation, especially at the beginning! Rachael and Kelly share their personal feeding journeys, and more!

Kelly is a nurse, IBCLC and founder of The Balanced Boob which provides support and education to breastfeeding families. Kelly works helping mamas confidently navigate their breastfeeding journey without the overwhelm, guilt, or judgment. Kelly is so passionate about educating and supporting families in her breastfeeding program Boob School. You can find Kelly on instagram @thebalancedboob and get more support with breastfeeding on her website Boob School!

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

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Show Website

For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

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Episode 7: How To Keep Kids Healthy with Dr. Anjuli Gans

Disclaimer: This episode is for entertainment and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please seek immediate care from your physician if you have any concerns about your baby or child’s health.

Join Rachael and Dr. Anjuli Gans as they talk about cold and flu season with your kids and babies, partnering with your healthcare team, trusting your own parental intuition, and more! Dr. Anjuli will also answer some of the most-asked questions directly from our listeners!

In this episode we discuss how and why Dr. Anjuli started her Instagram page and resources for parents. We talk about the importance of forming trusting, therapeutic alliances with your care team and the trends in medical advice on social media. Dr. Anjuli teaches us how to manage cold and flu season with little ones plus focuses on RSV season and how to protect your baby, especially with older children around! Learn all the tips for hydrating your babies and kids when they’re sick and educate yourself on the signs of respiratory distress and when to be concerned. Dr. Anjuli shares some homeopathic remedies and top things to be feeding your child to keep them healthy and answers the question if multivitamins are necessary or not. Find out if melatonin is recommended for improving babies and kids sleep plus the benefits of breastfeeding past 12 months. We also discuss managing congestion and silent reflux in newborns and so much more!

Dr. Anjuli Gans is a pediatrician at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and a Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and at Georgetown University School of Medicine. She’s worked in pediatrics for over a decade -- and focuses on early childhood development and pediatric mental health and well-being. But it wasn't until she became a mom of two young children that she realized how little practical health information there was out there for parents. She remembers all of the advice she used to give, before she had kids, that now feels truthfully very unrealistic. 

You can follow Dr. Gans on Instagram @resilientrascals to find simple, intentional, step-by-step health tips for parents. You can also purchase one of her in-depth guides on her website Resilient Rascals as well as find a variety of other resources and blogs. Specifically, you can find her Vitamin Guide for children from birth through three years of age here.

Grab the HSB Better Bedtimes Guide Dr. Anjuli used for her child here. For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

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Episode 6: We Have Good Reason to be Angry with Yara Heary

Did you feel totally unprepared for how ANGRY you'd sometimes feel after having a baby? Maybe you did all the baby prep classes or prepared yourself for labor as much as you could or read all the “how-to” books on parenting and have a great partner. But once you got home, you realized nobody prepared you for just how much everything in your life was going to change. Perhaps you are struggling with your identity shifting or your relationship has totally changed, or you're being triggered by things that didn't bother you before. Maybe you take it out on your partner- or your kids. Maybe you even feel some shame or embarrassment about these things. In this episode Rachael and Yara discuss the biggest points of contention in relationships after having a baby and why it is totally understandable for us to feel angry.

Join Rachael and Yara to talk about what couples struggle most with after having a baby and how a mothers identity tends to shift post baby. Yara discusses how defining expectations with your partner can help to prevent resentment and some ways to experience mothering with more ease. We address changing our beliefs & expectations on what it actually will look like when becoming parents and why moms might feel angry and resentful postpartum. Yara educates us on anger with our children and what to do when we're triggered plus how to assume the best of our children and others in our lives! Learn how to support your nervous system BEFORE you feel anger and how to practice self-compassion for mothers and connecting with our inner child, and so much more!

Book Mentioned: Fair Play by Eve Rodsky

Yara Heary is a Perth psychologist who works exclusively with women throughout conception, pregnancy, and motherhood. Yara started Life After Birth Psychology following the birth of her first son which started her on yet another journey of self-rediscovery. Her experiences throughout early motherhood drew her to support other women as they navigate their own family of origin dynamics, the social programming of the “good mother”, relationship changes with those around them, identity shifts, and role changes to find their place of balance and authenticity as mothers. She is also the host of Life After Birth with Yara, a podcast dedicated to sharing the stories of women as they navigate life as mothers. Follow Yara on Instagram.

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website

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Episode 5: How Your Relationship Changes After a Baby with Rachael & Marley

Join Rachael and her husband Marley as they get real and personal and talk about what they miss most about life before kids and the biggest ways they think things have changed since becoming parents.

In this episode they discuss planning for the birth of a baby together and how their relationships change after the first baby, versus second or third. Marley shares the hardest part about being a new dad and their thoughts on date nights and vacations without their kids. Learn how sleeping arrangements do or do not affect relationships and hear some advice for expecting dads or partners!

Marley is a clinical social worker from San Francisco, CA and a dad of three!

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website

For more on Rachael's approach to infant sleep check out heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

Please follow & subscribe to No One Told Us and if you enjoyed this episode- leave us a review!

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Episode 4: It's OK to Change Your Mind with Bekah Martinez

Join Rachael and Bekah Martinez to talk about all things pregnancy, birth, social media pressure, and parenting as Bekah prepares to welcome her third child. In this episode we discuss our previous birth experiences and plans for Bekah's next birth. We talk all about breastfeeding, cosleeping, & being touched out. We both share our newborn sleep struggles and Bekah shares her sleep training experience and new thoughts on the subject plus what she plans to do differently for her third baby! We talk about how social media comparisons and misinformation can be triggering to your parenting journey and much more!

Bekah is a former Bachelor contestant turned mom-of-almost-3, influencer and podcaster. Amongst many things, she's passionate about physiological birth, reconnecting with the earth through homemaking, and authentic parenting. You can find her on Instagram and hear a lot more chatter on patreon.com/bekahandgray. Follow Bekah on Instagram, Youtube & Tiktok.

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website

Please follow & subscribe to No One Told Us and if you enjoyed this episode- leave us a 5-Star rating and review! We love you for that!

This podcast does not contain medical advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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Episode 3: Anxiety is not "Normal" with Kate Borsato

You've heard of Postpartum Depression but what about other perinatal mood disorders? Is it "normal" for moms to be anxious forever now that they've had a baby? What about intrusive thoughts? How long do these feelings last and what can we do about them?

Join Rachael and Therapist Kate Borsato to talk about perinatal mood disorders and finding moments of joy in early motherhood. In this episode we discuss what's normal worrying/ anxiety vs. what's NOT normal and how to know when you should seek help. Kate explains what intrusive thoughts are, how to manage stress and find small "glimmers". We also share about self care, self compassion and finding yourself again!

Kate is a mom of two daughters and lives on Vancouver Island with her kids and husband. She works as mental health therapist, she created and leads a nation-wide therapy practice (Perinatal Collective) with a team of over 20 perinatal specialists, and also creates self-help resources for things like anxiety, overwhelm, and finding more joy in motherhood. Follow Kate on InstagramVirtual Therapy Collective (for Canadians) Kate's WebsiteRecommended Online Courses To get connected with help right away, visit Postpartum Support InternationalRachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website

Please follow & subscribe to No One Told Us and if you enjoyed this episode- leave us a review! Every week we choose random winners from our review section to win prizes!

This podcast does not contain medical advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

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Episode 2: All About Sibling Stuff with Jess VanderWier

Join Rachael & Jess as we talk all about adding on to your family. We discuss siblings and different dynamics and challenges that can come up when welcoming a new baby.

In this episode, Rachael and Jess discuss adding a second and third baby to the family and our personal experiences with this. We talk about getting through Postpartum with other children and how to prepare your older child for the birth of a sibling. Jess tells us how to connect with your older child when a new baby is born and addresses all the new feelings/ dynamics that may come up and how to handle them! We also learn how to deal with things like aggression from your older child, sleep issues that may come up after welcoming new baby & more!

Jess VanderWier is a Registered Psychotherapist who helps families understand and respond to their children with gentleness and respect. Jess has a Master's Degree in Counselling Psychology and has logged thousands of clinical hours supporting parents and their children. As the founder of Nurtured First, Jess uses her expertise to support parents in her online parent community through her online courses and free resources. 

Follow Jess on Instagram

Nurtured First Website

Recommended Course: Parenting Little Kids

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website

Please follow & subscribe to No One Told Us and if you enjoyed this episode- leave us a review! Every week we choose random winners from our review section to win prizes!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever feel like you entered parenthood completely overwhelmed and underprepared? Yeah. Me too. Hey, friend! 

Meet Rachael Shepard-Ohta, your host for the podcast No One Told Us, where we tell the truth about parenting and let you in on allllll the stuff you really should've known before having kids. Rachael is the founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby but this podcast is SO much more than sleep. We'll be diving into ALL the topics you care about, to help you feel more prepared and less alone while raising your adorable little humans.

Join me & our guests each week for new episodes and follow along:

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Youtube (to watch episodes on video)

Website (transcripts available)

Chat with you soon!

x Rach

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Have you ever googled "baby won't sleep" at 2am? Same. Baby sleep information can be a total minefield and most parents are left confused, unsure of who to trust (hint: you can trust yourself!) and TIRED.

Join Rachael for the FIRST episode of NOTU and hear all about the reason she founded Hey, Sleepy Baby after a traumatic journey with baby sleep as a first time mom. Rachael discusses her first baby's sleep "problems" and what she tried plus how to deal with reflux, CMPA and tongue tie. Rachael discusses how baby sleep drove her a little insane and made her eventually try out sleep training (from that popular trainer) and what happened. Hear how she started cosleeping with baby number 2 and what she's doing differently as a mom to her 2nd and 3rd babies. She talks about what "normal" baby sleep really looks like and what "counts" as "sleeping through the night" plus so much more!

Stay tuned till the end for a little pep talk if you're in the thick of it. It gets better!

Research mentioned:

• PMID: 32087408
• PMID: 28576897
• https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2007-3783

Rachael is a mom of 3, founder of Hey, Sleepy Baby, and the host of this podcast. Join me & our guests each week for new episodes on ALL things parenting and follow along:

Instagram (Show page)

Tiktok (Rachael's tiktok account)

Show Website

For more on biologically normal infant sleep and a holistic approach to getting more sleep, visit heysleepybaby.com and follow on instagram.

Please follow & subscribe to No One Told Us and if you enjoyed this episode- leave us a review! Every week we choose random winners from our review section to win prizes!

This podcast does not contain medical advice and is for entertainment purposes only.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices