Ep. 391 Why Babies Sleep Better Near Adults with Greer Kirshenbaum

In this episode, we’re diving deep into one of the most talked-about (and often misunderstood) topics in early parenthood SIDS and co-sleeping. Despite the scary warnings you’ve probably heard from the AAP or your pediatrician, many families still find themselves wondering how to safely sleep near their baby. And honestly? That’s a valid question.

We’ll explore what the research actually says about bedsharing, the science of a baby’s biological need for closeness, and how parents can make informed choices that balance safety and connection. You’ll hear about the work of James McKenna, Helen Ball, and La Leche League’s Sweet Sleep, plus insights from Sarah Ockwell-Smith that bring real-world practicality to this nuanced conversation.

If you’ve ever felt torn between expert advice and your natural instincts, this episode will help you find clarity, confidence, and calm in your family’s sleep choices.

00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Safe Sleep Practices

01:18 Personal Story: Transforming a Mother's Sleep Routine

03:28 Newborn Sleep Solutions Guide

07:22 The Science Behind Newborn Sleep

09:06 Interview with Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum

17:07 Understanding Co-Sleeping and Bed Sharing

22:32 Safe Sleep Guidelines and SIDS

28:39 Controversial Topics: Vaccines and SIDS

31:06 Global Perspectives on Safe Sleep

35:22 Purity Coffee: A Healthier Choice

38:43 Addressing Sleep Challenges in Babies

42:16 Embracing Flexibility with a Newborn

44:04 The Importance of Nervous System Regulation

46:11 Building a Support System for New Moms

52:28 Debunking Myths About Newborn Habits

56:47 The Impact of Sleep Training on Mental Health

01:06:43 Tips for Optimal Baby Sleep

01:13:17 Final Thoughts and Resources

Guest Bio:

Greer Kirshenbaum PhD is an Author, Neuroscientist, Doula, Infant and Family Sleep Specialist and Mother. She trained at the University of Toronto and Columbia University with additional training at New York University and Yale University. Greer has combined her academic training with her experience as a doula and mother to lead The Nurture Revolution. A movement to nurture our babies’ brains to revolutionize mental health and impact larger systems in our world. Greer wants families, professionals, and workplaces to understand how early caregiving experience can boost mental wellness and diminish depression, anxiety, and addiction in adulthood by shaping babies’ brains through simple intuitive enriching experiences in pregnancy, birth and infancy. Her book is called The Nurture Revolution: Grow Your Baby’s Brain and Transform Their Mental Health Through the Art of Nurtured Parenting. She offers resources, workshops, and coaching on her website www.nurture-neuroscience.com and on Instagram @drgreerkirshenbaum.

INSTAGRAM:

Connect with HeHe on IG

Connect with Dr. Greer 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: www.nurture-neuroscience.com

Reviews of the research on SIDS and infant death

James McKenna: https://cosleeping.nd.edu/

Helen Ball: https://evolutionaryparenting.com/bed-sharing-and-co-sleeping-research-overview/

La Leche League's Sweet Sleep book: https://llli.org/resources/sweet-sleep/

Sarah Ockwell-Smith: https://sarahockwell-smith.com/