Understanding the Fourth Trimester with Sarah Trott - EP 238

In this insightful episode of The Cool Grandpa Podcast, I sit down with Sarah Trott, founder of the Fourth Trimester Podcast and creator of the Hello Gaia app. Together, we unpack how grandfathers can be a vital and compassionate part of the postpartum experience.

From the importance of emotional support and boundary-setting to the practical ways grandpas can show up—like folding laundry, running the vacuum, or simply asking, "How are you, really?"—this episode empowers grandfathers to rethink their role in early parenthood.

Sarah also shares the evolution of postpartum care, explains what the fourth trimester means, and discusses how her app, Hello Gaia, and podcast provide trustworthy, vetted information for new and expecting families.

Whether you're about to become a grandfather for the first time or want to support your adult children better, this episode is packed with timely wisdom, resources, and empathy.

Takeaways

• Grandfathers should be more involved in supporting new parents.
• The fourth trimester is crucial for both the baby and parents.
• Open communication between grandparents and parents is essential.
• Avoid showing up unannounced to support new parents.
• Postpartum depression affects one in five women and one in ten dads.
• It's okay for new parents to let their house go a little.
• Practical help, like cleaning, is valuable for new parents.
• Social media can create unrealistic expectations for new parents.
• Building trust through consistent support is key for grandparents.
• Resources, such as guides and apps, can help grandparents support new parents.

🔗 Resources Mentioned:

• Fourth Trimester Podcast
• Hello Gaia App
• Postpartum Support International (PSI)
• Click on this Link to watch this conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bg88R2-0Tvg.