Speaking of the Village

In this episode, Dawn and Nicole discuss the critical topic of preeclampsia with expert Sarah Thompson. They explore the rising incidence of preeclampsia, its symptoms, causes, and the significant role nutrition plays in prevention and management. Sarah emphasizes the importance of individualized care and the need for supportive systems during pregnancy. The conversation also highlights dietary recommendations, particularly the Med...

In this episode, Dawn Thompson and Nicole Harlot engage with HeHe, a doula and founder of Tranquility by HeHe, discussing the importance of education in childbirth, the trends in induction and cesarean rates, and the role of partners in the birthing process. They emphasize the need for women to be active participants in their birth choices, the significance of trusting one's intuition, and the impact of hospital practices on matern...

In this conversation, Nicole Harlot, Dawn Thompson, and Kim Jolasun discuss the significance of having a supportive village during motherhood. Kim shares her experiences and insights on how cultural differences shape the way communities support new parents. The discussion emphasizes the importance of communication, setting boundaries, and the evolving role of fathers in the parenting journey. The conversation also highlights the ne...

In this episode of Speaking of the Village, hosts Dawn Thompson and Nicole Harlot discuss the complexities of childbirth, focusing on the differences between home births and hospital births. Dawn shares her recent experience as a doula at a hospital birth, highlighting the challenges faced within the hospital system, including the importance of having supportive staff and the impact of hospital protocols on the birthing experience....

In this conversation, Nicole Harlot and Dawn Thompson discuss the Neuro Play Method with pediatric physical therapist Elizabeth. They explore the importance of early intervention in child development, the holistic approach to infant care, and practical strategies for parents to support their baby's growth. Elizabeth shares insights on movement patterns, the significance of a supportive environment, and the benefits of proactive...

In this episode, Dawn Thompson and Nicole Harlot engage with Jaimie Zaki to discuss the critical aspects of maternal health, particularly focusing on breastfeeding. They explore the interconnectedness of birth and breastfeeding, the impact of medical interventions, and the emotional trauma that can arise from childbirth experiences. Jamie emphasizes the importance of understanding the maternal health system, the role of IV fluids, ...

In this episode, hosts Dawn Thompson and Nicole Harlot engage in a candid discussion about the complexities of labor induction, cesarean births, and the importance of maternal health education. They share personal experiences and insights on the impact of medical interventions in childbirth, the significance of listening to one's intuition, and the need for informed decision-making in maternity care. The conversation emphasizes...

In this enlightening conversation, Dawn Thompson and Nicole Harlot engage with Ashley Mariani, a registered social worker and breathwork practitioner, to explore the dynamics of feminine and masculine roles in relationships, particularly during the perinatal period. They discuss the importance of masculine support for women, the concept of empowerment versus authority in birth spaces, and the need for partners to take an active rol...

In this episode, Nicole Harlot and Dawn Thompson engage in a thought-provoking conversation with Elizabeth van der Wilt, a certified doula and holistic women's health coach. They explore the sacredness of mammalian birth, drawing parallels between animal and human birthing experiences. Elizabeth shares her unique insights from witnessing a cow give birth on her farm, emphasizing the natural processes involved and the importance...

In this episode, Nicole Harlot, Dawn Thompson, and Theresa Moutafis discuss the importance of nutrition for breastfeeding and postpartum mothers. They explore what foods to avoid during pregnancy, essential nutrients for recovery, and practical snack ideas. The conversation emphasizes the role of dietitians in supporting mothers, the significance of hydration and fiber, and the challenges of body image post-pregnancy. They also tou...

Summary

In this conversation, Dawn Thompson and Nicole Harlot engage with Rixa Freeze, a prominent advocate for twin and breech birth. They discuss the alarming rise in cesarean rates for twin births, the importance of informed consent, and the need for better training among healthcare providers. Rixa shares her journey into birth research, the findings from her twin home birth study, and the systemic changes needed to support v...

In this episode, Nicole Harlot and Dawn Thompson engage with Kerry Ingram, a postpartum mental health specialist, to discuss the critical role of community support during the postpartum period. They explore the concept of 'village tending,' emphasizing the importance of building a supportive network for new parents. The conversation highlights the need for parents to feel safe and supported, the challenges of navigating boundaries ...

Alicia Hurtt is the founder and Executive Director of I See My Baby Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women and families through holistic wellness and compassionate support. As a certified birth doula, minister, and author of over 32 books, Alicia draws from her personal journey of overcoming infertility, depression, and a crisis of faith to inspire and uplift others. With a Master’s degree in Leadership and Ch...

Ashley Holmes is a Holistic Fertility Coach specializing in the mind-body connection, empowering women through fertility challenges, pregnancy, and the journey beyond. With expertise in bodywork, energetics and mindfulness, she guides individuals in creating a balanced foundation for conception, nurturing early pregnancy, and healing from loss. Ashley’s compassionate approach helps clients embrace resilience, deepen self-trust, and...

As the lead certified pediatric sleep expert at Your Zen Baby Sleep, Sarah Bossio works with tired parents with children ages 0-8 years old to achieve their individual sleep goals, so that everyone can get the rest they need. She has supported over 500 families in her one-on-one programs and 1,000s in her courses and group programs. As a former special education teacher, Sarah believes every child learns differently and every paren...