69: Communicating During Pregnancy with Amanda Houle

In this solo episode, HeHe dives into the questions flooding her DMs—covering some of the most common (and confusing) topics in pregnancy and birth! We’re unpacking 39-week inductions, what to do when you’re told your baby is “too big,” navigating a GBS+ diagnosis, using upright positions during labor, the truth about hydrotherapy, and what your options really are when your water breaks at term. This episode is packed with evidence-based insight and empowering guidance to help you feel informed, confident, and in control of your birth choices.   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone! LINKS MENTIONED: Big Baby:  https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2020/01/macrosomia https://www.uptodate.com/contents/fetal-macrosomia https://evidencebasedbirth.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Big-Babies-Handout.pdf     Vaccines:  https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/imz-schedules/index.html https://www.healthychildren.org/English/Pages/default.aspx https://evidencebasedbirth.com/ https://justtheinserts.com/     Vaccine Books: The Vaccine Book, Dr. Robert Sears The Vaccine Friendly Plan, Dr. Paul Thomas and Dr. Jennifer Margulis What Your Doctor Won’t Tell You About Vaccines, Dr. Stephanie cave  Calling The ShotL Why Parents Reject Vaccines, Jennifer A. Reich  Vaccines, Autoimmunity, and the Changing Nature of Childhood Illness, Dr. Thomas Cowan    Dr. Green Mom   Hydrotherapy (Tub Use in Labor)   Infection After Water Breaks at Term   GBS: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/groupbstrep/ https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2020/0315/p378.html https://neonatalsepsiscalculator.kaiserpermanente.org https://www.uptodate.com/contents/approach-to-risk-assessment-and-initial-management-of-newborns-with-risk-factors-for-early-onset-sepsis

18 Huhti 52min

In this episode, HeHe and Sarah Trott discuss the integration and benefits of AI in parenting, particularly focusing on the new tool Hello Gaia, developed to provide reliable, non-medical parenting advice. The hosts delve into AI's strengths and limitations, emphasizing the importance of using AI as a complement to professional medical advice and personal intuition. They highlight AI's potential to save time and reduce mental load in parenting tasks and outline how Hello Gaia has been tailored to source credible information from reputable organizations. The conversation also touches on the importance of social support, the skepticism surrounding AI, and policy implications for postpartum care. Guest Bio: Sarah Trott is creator and host of the Fourth Trimester Podcast. She created the show after realizing that many of the questions she had about her own experience as a new parent were the same questions her postpartum doula was asking some thirty years prior. She is passionate about helping other parents find the resources and confidence they need on their parenting journey. She is also the founder of HelloGaia Parenting Copilot, a tool providing evidence-based support for families, offering fast, reliable answers from pregnancy to parenting, anytime. HelloGaia draws upon trusted sources such as the American Academy of Pediatrics, March of Dimes, the US Centers for Disease Controls and Prevention, plus credentialed and experienced Perinatal professionals. Sarah also works in tech as a startup advisor, and she loves spending time with her husband and three daughters in the San Francisco Bay Area.   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Sarah on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone! LINKS MENTIONED: Get Sarah's Postpartum Plan Template here!    Listen to the Fourth Trimester Podcast here!    Download HelloGaia Parenting Copilot for evidence-based support for families, offering fast, reliable answers from pregnancy to parenting, anytime. Get started with HelloGaia here. https://hellogaia.ai/   Postpartum Support International    Check out the wonder weeks app: https://thewonderweeks.com/the-wonder-weeks-app/   Check out the Baby Connect app: https://en.babyconnect.com/

16 Huhti 49min

Calling all doulas ready to level up! In this Q+A-style episode, I’m answering your most-asked questions straight from Instagram about how I built a thriving doula business that generates over $500K in annual revenue. From launching 3 online courses and a membership that’s helped thousands have their dream births, to creating 20+ digital products that sell in my sleep, building a top-ranked podcast, and launching an app—I'm sharing the real behind-the-scenes of how I did it all. You’ll walk away with actionable insights on growing your brand, supporting your clients with confidence, and scaling your impact without burning out. If you’re ready to go from passion to profit and build a doula business that changes lives (including your own!), this episode is your roadmap.   Brought to you by: Just Ingredients, Use code TRANQUILITYBYHEHE at checkout to save on your purchase!    INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/   LINKS MENTIONED: Business Accelerator for Doulas   BIRTH EDUCATION: Get the free class to help you avoid a c-section and reduce your risk of tearing!    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

11 Huhti 38min

In this empowering episode, we’re talking directly to the dads and partners! If you’ve ever wondered “What can I actually do during labor?” — this one’s for you. We’re breaking down exactly how you can be a confident, calm, and supportive presence in the birth room. From hands-on comfort techniques to powerful advocacy tips, you’ll leave this episode knowing how to show up for your partner like a pro. Plus, we’re sharing go-to resources that will help guide you every step of the way. Let’s turn nervous energy into confident action — because you play a crucial role in this birth story!   BIRTH EDUCATION: Get the free class to help you avoid a c-section and reduce your risk of tearing!    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   Brought to you by: Cozy Earth, Use code HEHE at checkout to save 40% off your purchase!  Cozy Earth has the softest, coziest pajamas on earth! I love their bedding, pajamas (I have three pair), socks, towels, and loungewear! I am a die-hard Cozy Earth fan and will absolutely be packing my CE pajamas in my birth bag and living in them during postpartum! Try their Bamboo sheets risk free with their 100 night trial! Use code HEHE at checkout to save 40% off your purchase!  INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/   LINKS MENTIONED: Dad Daze Course

9 Huhti 38min

In this episode, we share a recast of episode 302 where HeHe chats with Alexandra, the founder of Just The Inserts, to discuss the crucial topic of informed consent in pregnancy and pediatric care. With the current measles outbreak, it’s more important than ever for parents and professionals to understand informed consent in the context of vaccines. Alexandra shares her journey in advocating for informed consent, the importance of reading pharmaceutical inserts, and navigating the complexities of the healthcare system. Whether you're an expecting parent or looking to make informed medical decisions for your family, this episode provides invaluable advice and resources. Don't miss Alexandra's tips on how to understand medical options, ensure safety, and feel confident in your healthcare choices. 00:00 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast 00:48 Introducing the Host and Podcast Purpose 11:07 Diving into the Vaccine Debate 13:20 Navigating Medical Decisions and Providers 20:14 Understanding Informed Consent 25:13 The Importance of Reading Medical Inserts 31:40 Resources for Learning About Medical Inserts 34:00 Understanding the Bolded Parts 34:28 Introducing the New Book 35:12 Empowering Medical Decisions 37:04 The Importance of Vaccine Inserts 40:25 Concerns About Adverse Reactions 43:44 Transparency in Medical Information 47:51 State Laws and Medical Freedom 56:46 Resources for Informed Consent Guest Bio: Alexandra is the visionary behind Just the Inserts, a resource dedicated to empowering individuals and families with clear, accessible information about medical choices. With a background steeped in research and a commitment to transparency, Alexandra has become a trusted voice in the informed consent community, helping countless people navigate the complex world of medical information.   BIRTH EDUCATION: Get the free class to help you avoid a c-section and reduce your risk of tearing!    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone! INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG: https://www.instagram.com/tranquilitybyhehe/ Connect with Alexandra on IG: https://www.instagram.com/justtheinserts/ LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.justtheinserts.com/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/ Grab Alexandra’s book, Well Considered, here: https://justtheinserts.store/

4 Huhti 1h

In this episode, HeHe has a heartfelt conversation with her close friend and past doula client, Katherine. Together, they explore Katherine's distinct birth experiences within the Canadian and American healthcare systems, discussing the challenges and joys of childbirth. Katherine shares insightful anecdotes about her breech birth in Canada and a water birth in the US, highlighting the emotional and physical differences. She emphasizes the importance of trusting one's intuition, advocating for oneself, and setting boundaries. Throughout the episode, Katherine's journey as a mother interweaves with her experiences breaking generational patterns, nurturing her children's unique personalities, and finding joy in everyday moments. The conversation underscores the significance of support systems, intentional living, and the power of manifestation in creating a fulfilling life. 06:40 Comparing Canadian and American Healthcare Systems 07:26 Experiences with Canadian Healthcare System 12:39 Transition to American Healthcare System 12:59 The Beverly Birthing Center Experience 29:08 The Power of Manifestation and Trusting Yourself 44:55 Reflecting on Friendship and Support 46:34 The Challenges of Induction 48:59 Experiencing Labor and Delivery 50:53 Post-Birth Reflections 51:58 The Importance of Trust and Presence 55:02 Parenting and Childbirth Insights 01:01:39 Gratitude and High Vibrations 01:05:15 Raising Strong-Willed Children 01:11:35 Final Thoughts and Advice 01:18:25 Connecting with Katherine   Guest Bio: Katherine Debs has never followed the conventional path—she’s redefined what “normal” looks like. Born in Lebanon to a Lebanese father and an American mother, she grew up experiencing different cultures, later living in Boston and Montreal. Her passion for helping others led her to study International Affairs, dreaming of philanthropy and making a global impact. Her own health struggles in her teens introduced her to holistic wellness, sparking a lifelong commitment to empowering others to lead healthier, more intentional lives. Through her work with Arbonne, she’s helped countless people make meaningful changes, from nutrition to mindset. Now, Katherine is expanding her mission by becoming a Pilates teacher, bringing movement that feels good and helps people connect their mind and body. As a mom, entrepreneur, mentor, and passionate home cook, she wears many hats—but each one is rooted in her love for community, wellness, and personal growth. She currently lives in Boston with her husband and two daughters, leading with appreciation and inspiring others to live fully.   SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Katherine on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Get the free class to help you avoid a c-section and reduce your risk of tearing!    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: Connect with Katherine here!

2 Huhti 1h 21min

In this episode, Sarah discusses the often overlooked importance of specific minerals and vitamins during pregnancy, with a deep dive into vitamin D. She explains the complexity of vitamin D's role in the body, its conversion process, and its myriad functions, including the regulation of calcium, neurotransmitters, hormone production, iron absorption, and immune function. The conversation covers common deficiencies, reasons why many are affected, and the impact of different lifestyle factors. Sarah also addresses potential over-supplementation of vitamin D, optimal dosing, and the intricate relationships among various nutrients crucial for its effectiveness. Other key topics include vitamin D's connection to preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, PCOS, postpartum mood complications, and breastfeeding. Practical advice on testing, supplementation, and dietary considerations is provided to help ensure adequate vitamin D levels for maternal and fetal health. This comprehensive discussion highlights the importance of tailored approaches to vitamin D intake based on individual needs and circumstances. TIMESTAMPS and check on DR    Guest Bio: Sarah Thompson is a board certified acupuncturist and herbalist as well as a certified functional medicine practitioner and birth doula. Sarah started practicing in 2005 after doing her internship in Beijing, China. Sarah founded Sacred Vessel in 2012 after years of working alongside medical doctors. She serves as clinic director as well as lead practitioner at Sacred Vessel.  ​​   One of her great passions, and missions, is to educate women and their providers on the vital role nutrition plays in pregnancy and labor outcomes. Through her, nearly, 20 years of experiences she has provided care to hundreds of expectant mamas. In 2021 she authored the book, Functional Maternity - Using Functional Medicine and Nutrition to Improve Pregnancy and Childbirth Outcomes. In 2024, she published her second book, a reference book for providers, Beyond Results - A Practitioner's Guide to Functional Lab Analysis in Pregnancy.  SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG Connect with HeHe on YouTube.   Connect with Sarah on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: https://www.functionalmaternity.com/   Get Functional Maternity, the book here!  Check out Sarah’s book for practitioners here!

28 Maalis 1h 7min

In this recast episode of the Birth Lounge Podcast, host HeHe and certified professional midwife Melissa Chapel dive into candid discussions about pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. The podcast offers a wealth of evidence-based information, understanding the importance of feeling pressure during labor, and recognizing the difference between intermittent and constant rectal or vaginal pressure. Melissa also addresses the controversial practice of being asked not to push if a doctor isn't present. Both emphasize the significance of mental and emotional preparedness in labor. The episode concludes with insights into laboring down, resting stages during labor, and navigating hospital protocols. This episode is a must-listen for expecting parents, laboring mothers, and professionals supporting childbirth. 01:23 Free Class: Avoiding C-Sections and Reducing Tearing 03:10 Part Two: Interview with Midwife Melissa Chapel 03:33 Understanding the Urge to Push 10:00 Navigating Hospital Birth Challenges 20:30 Understanding Cervical Dilation 21:15 Factors Affecting Cervical Changes 23:22 The Role of Fear in Labor 26:21 Mental and Emotional Barriers 27:34 The Importance of Acceptance in Birth 31:25 Laboring Down: Rest and Be Thankful 35:24 Navigating Hospital Births 38:03 Resources and Support for Birth 40:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Guest Bio: Melissa Chappell, LDEM, CPM is a midwife and owner of two birth centers in Utah, as well as a doula trainer of over 20 years. She is passionate about women’s health from a holistic and nourishing perspective, and advocates for women’s wellness in all areas of their lives. She has worked with midwives and birthing women all over the world, including in Haiti, Ethiopia, and Kenya, and loves seeing how women’s lives improve with access to safe and effective midwifery care. She’s the owner of Fresh Melissa, a company dedicated to creating tasty treats that are also healthy. She is the mother of 4 children and 3 grandchildren that she adores. In between catching babies, Melissa loves to explore as much of the world as she can – from international travel to exploring the mountains in her backyard. SOCIAL MEDIA: Connect with HeHe on IG  Connect with HeHe on YouTube   Connect with Melissa on IG    BIRTH EDUCATION: Get HeHe’s Free Class to Avoid C-Section   Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!   Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!   LINKS MENTIONED: Connect with Melissa here!

26 Maalis 43min