Active Mom Podcast: Pregnancy, Postpartum, Perimenopause, Menopause & Beyond

Send us Fan MailThere's a thought a lot of moms have had and almost none of them have said out loud. Maybe it was an image of dropping the baby. Maybe it was something worse. And the second it showed up, the next thought was: what is wrong with me?Dr. Vanessa Komarek is a psychologist who specializes in trauma and PTSD recovery, a powerlifter, and a mom of two under two. She came on to talk about mental load and we ended up somewhere much more honest: birth trauma, intrusive thoughts, and why so much well-meaning postpartum advice lands flat.🔹 What mental load actually is (the cognitive part and the emotional part nobody names) 🔹 What "birth trauma" includes, and why it's broader than most people think 🔹 What's a normal reaction after a hard delivery, and the signals that it's worth reaching out 🔹 Intrusive thoughts: what they are, why fighting them backfires, and what actually helps 🔹 Why "sleep when the baby sleeps" and "take time for yourself" fall flat for so many women 🔹 The trade-offs nobody admits are baked into "balance" 🔹 All-or-nothing thinking, exercise snacks, and Vanessa's phrase for it: embracing messy action 🔹 The pelvic health parallel: what happens when the brain decides the body is fragileThis one is worth your time whether you're in it right now or 15 years past it. And if any of it lands a little too close, that's information, not a verdict.Resources mentioned: Postpartum Support International: postpartum.net · HelpLine 1-800-944-4773 (call or text) · free online support groups and a provider directory If you are in crisis in the US, call or text 988. Find Vanessa on Instagram: @heavy_lifting_psychologistThis podcast is for education and is not medical advice. Please loop in your own provider.Time Stamps0:00 introduction6:07 talking about mental load9:48 what got Vanessa into psychology12:55 helping moms deal with trauma and expectations19:55 ignoring the bad advice23:48 the athlete identity28:17 balance is a myth35:58 helping moms overcome perfectionism37:41 what she has learned in her journey45:19 being an active momCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLR2R Screen: https://course.carriepagliano.com/R2RreadyscreenCONNECT WITH VANESSA:IG: https://www.instagram.com/heavy_lifting_psychologist/Website: www.adaptpsych.orgThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan Mail"I don't have enough milk." It's the first place a new mom's brain goes when the baby fusses, wakes early, or pops off the breast. And when you add workouts back into the mix? The doubt gets louder.This week's Summer Rewind brings back one of my favorite conversations, with my longtime friend (and former neighbor!) Kelly Kendall, RN, IBCLC, aka @thebalancedboob. Kelly was an L&D nurse who thought she had breastfeeding figured out. Then she became a mom. Tongue ties, mastitis, postpartum anxiety, all of it. That story is exactly why she does what she does now.We get into:🔹 Why "I must not have enough milk" is usually the wrong conclusion (and what's actually normal) 🔹 The real answer to "will exercise mess with my supply?" 🔹 Fueling for lactation AND training: calories, protein, and why this is NOT the season for a deficit 🔹 The logistics nobody warns you about (pumping in the car counts as a win) 🔹 The hardest part of all: believing you deserve time to move your bodyIf you're trying to nurse a baby and get back to the workouts you love, this one will take a weight off your shoulders. Press play.Find Kelly on Instagram @thebalancedboob or at thebalancedboob.comTime Stamps1:00 introduction4:19 common issues and struggles9:15 where moms struggle when starting to add in workouts11:50 nutrition advice for breastfeeding moms14:15 additional advice for momsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH KELLYIG: https://www.instagram.com/thebalancedboob/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailYou've heard it. Maybe you've said it. "Your pelvic floor is too tight." It's everywhere right now — on the socials, in the clinic, out of the mouths of people who've never assessed a pelvic floor in their life. But here's the question almost nobody stopped to ask: can we actually feel the thing we keep confidently naming?Researcher Gosia Starzec-Proserpio, PT, PhD, just did the work to find out — across 528 women. And her answer is more interesting (and more freeing) than either side of the internet fight wants it to be.I got to sit down with Gosia — 12 weeks postpartum, "just coming out of the darkness into the light," her words — to talk about the study that went a little viral, and what it actually means for the person on your table.🔹 What "tone" even means (and why it meant nothing to her as a new clinician) 🔹 The single biggest mistake we make: treating "pain" and "tight" as the same word 🔹 Palpation vs. ultrasound vs. dynamometry — three tools, three answers, and why that's a feature, not a flaw 🔹 Where our fingers are genuinely good — and where they quietly aren't 🔹 Why you can't get "fixed on the number," even when we love a good number 🔹 The pregnancy nobody warns you about being harder than postpartumThis one's for the clinicians who want to sharpen how they assess and explain tone — and for anyone who's been handed a label they've been carrying ever since. Come nerd out with us.Education, not individualized medical advice — loop in your own pelvic floor PT for what's true for your body.Time Stamps0:00 introduction3:56 quick fire questions9:43 troubles breastfeeding18:55 muscle tone explained21:54 explaining the research25:35 communicating with patients33:51 comparing different measurement modalities45:53 addressing personal biases49:11 changes in clinical practiceCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLCONNECT WITH GOSIA:IG: https://www.instagram.com/starzecproserpio_phd/Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/mstarzecResearch: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Malgorzata-Starzec-Proserpio?ev=hdr_xprf The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIf you've ever accepted leaking as the toll you pay to keep running, this one's going to reframe it.Dr. Linda McLean (@mfm_lab) is one of the foremost researchers on the pelvic floor and urinary incontinence — a professor and Chair in Women's Health Research at the University of Ottawa. In this Summer Rewind, we cut through what the science actually shows about why running-induced urinary incontinence happens… and where popular advice for active moms gets it wrong.We get into pelvic floor morphology, how running may load and change those structures, and what the evidence says about interventions — including pessaries and other intravaginal support devices for runners who leak. Linda also unpacks the difference between evidence-based and evidence-informed, and how to break down the barriers keeping women from exercise.Leaking when you run is common… but common doesn't have to mean permanent.Always work with your own pelvic floor PT and maternity provider — this conversation is education, not individual care.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction3:58 bio feedback in pelvic PT6:46 morphology paper16:41 the roll strength plays21:15 connecting clinical findings to research32:10 intra-abdominal pressure34:50 different causes of urinary incontinence40:20 supportive devices44:29 elongation of the pelvic floorCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH LINDAIG: https://www.instagram.com/mfm_lab/Website: www.mfmlab.caX: @mfmlabFacebook: @mfmlabuottawaThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailMelanie Cote spent years believing runners were a certain kind of person — thin, disciplined, elite — and she wasn't it. So when a coworker organized a 5K, she showed up to cheer instead of run, too embarrassed to try. A year later, she crossed that same start line. Today she's a half-marathoner who runs as @the.curvy.runner, and her story is for every mom who's ever thought "I'm not a runner."Carrie and Melanie get into starting couch-to-5K in your late 40s, why consistency beats performance, the gear struggles nobody warns curvy runners about, running through perimenopause, and letting go of the diet-culture rules we grew up with. It's a conversation about giving yourself permission — to take up space, to take the trip, to be the mom you're proud of.Time Stamps0:00 introduction5:08 how our relationship with running has changed8:43 separating running from weight loss11:29 becoming more active as kids get older14:56 being flexible to be consistent19:55 being creative with winter running25:32 finding community in running29:30 deciding to do a Disney half marathon34:02 running as a curvy woman43:13 dealing with hormonal changes48:40 quick hit questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLCONNECT WITH MELANIE:IG: https://www.instagram.com/the.curvy.runner/Website: www.thecurvyrunners.comThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailBringing this back because the "what exercises should I actually be doing?" question never gets old. Johnson cuts through the noise on rehab and strength work for runners — the movements that move the needle versus the filler. Practical, specific, and easy to act on this week.Today I speak with Chris Johnson, physical therapist, coach, author, teacher, consultant, and multiple-time Kona qualifier. He is also the creator of The Run Well, an online membership platform and community with a mission to fast-track clinicians, coaches, and trainers, who are looking to specialize in working with runners. We  talk about:-the love of running-exercises for runners-utilizing the power of walking-slowing down movements to evaluate-altered movement patterns from injuries-figuring out what’s heavy enough-using fundamental movements-hitting benchmarks before returning to running -similarities in returning to run after injury and postpartumTime Stamps1:00 introduction3:55 mistakes everyday runners make7:40 providing exercises to runners13:30 moving past the fear of old injuries17:34 demystifying injury recovery20:30 figuring out the right weight27:40 top exercise recommendations37:00 differences between working with men and women 44:35 Run Well Program CONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH CHRISIG: https://www.instagram.com/chrisjohnsonthept/Website: https://chrisjohnsonpt.com/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailCan you run with pelvic organ prolapse? In this solo episode, Dr. Carrie Pagliano takes on one of the most feared pelvic floor diagnoses… and why prolapse doesn't have to mean hanging up your running shoes.Carrie introduces your "prolapse personality" — because prolapse isn't one experience, it's many. She busts the myths (no, running didn't cause it… no, you don't have to rest until it's "gone"), walks through the three symptom presentations she sees in the clinic, and explains why your anatomy doesn't predict how you feel or what your body can do.You'll hear how she thinks about graded loading and return-to-run dosing, where pessaries and support devices can fit, what "just breathe" really means for runners, and why a prolapse diagnosis is a starting point — not a stop sign.For active moms and the providers who support them. Education, not medical advice — always loop in your own pelvic floor PT or provider.Time Stamps0:00 introduction3:33 mythbuster rapid fire8:06 no on-size-fits-all prolapse14:25 how symptoms change with activity18:03 pressure management and breathing20:54 importance of early activity25:01 doing too much too soon27:05 support devices30:22 returning to run with prolapseCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailThis is the single most-downloaded episode in Active Mom Podcast history… and if you joined in the last two years, you've probably never heard it.Dr. Alison Grimaldi connects hip strength and stability to the pelvic floor symptoms so many women keep chasing in isolation. If you've been faithfully doing your pelvic floor work without the result you expected, this conversation reframes where you might look next.Alison is an expert in hip, groin and lumbo-pelvic pain, Principal Physiotherapist at Physiotec, and Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at the University of Queensland — with research collaborations that even include the European Space Agency.We get into: building collaborative care, how the hip and pelvic floor may relate, what "strengthening the pelvic floor" actually involves, stress incontinence, using real-time ultrasound, and why she wants to "ban the clam."This one's a foundational listen. As always, your own maternity care team and pelvic floor PT are your best guides for your body.Want a follow up listen?  Check out Ep. 210 with Dr. Jenny Lacross and Dr. Laurel Proulx on recent updates in understanding hip & pelvic floor anatomy!1:00 introduction5:19 collaborative care9:30 dead butt syndrome11:42 certainties of relationship between hip and pelvic floor 19:40 clinical use of real time ultrasound23:09 biggest misses by physios29:34 “ban the clam”38:30 future researchCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH ALISONIG: https://www.instagram.com/dralisongrimaldi/Website (professional): https://dralisongrimaldi.com/Website: (public): https://hippainhelp.com/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailWhat load actually reaches your pelvis when you run? For years we couldn't really answer that — we just said "wait twelve weeks, then go." Babe, we've come a long way.Dr. Megan James is back — and this time it's Dr. James. She finished her PhD and brought two new papers that quietly shift how we think about returning to running postpartum.First: a graded pelvic loading pathway, built by measuring how much load actually reaches the pelvis across walking, hopping, jumping and running. The surprise star? Grounded running — a gliding, no-flight-phase style that showed consistently lower load at the pelvis than slow running at the same pace.Second: a return-to-run guide co-designed with postpartum runners. Their ask — treat us like mums who run, not athletes who happen to be mums. It's a guide, not a deadline. And if you're not running yet, you are not behind.We talk about:-Returning to running after injury versus after pregnancy-Why the research began with a nulliparous population-Hypervigilance and fear of movement-What impact forces actually reach the pelvis during running-Slow running, grounded running, and perceived impact-Creating a postpartum return-to-run guide-Looking at the whole person, not just the pelvic floorNote: This is education, not a prescription. For a plan built for your body, your birth and your symptoms, see your maternity care team and a pelvic floor PT.Time Stamps1:00 introduction6:23 setting up the research12:28 what they measured through the research16:45 surprises in the study21:20 slow running and grounded running26:42 rate of the perceived impact32:29 explaining the guide paper40:23 changing perception with feedback from moms45:32 the one-size-fits-all trap52:05 looking at the mom as a whole54:46 advice to former self58:12 potential future researchCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLCONNECT WITH MEGAN:LinkedIn: @meganljames16The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailBecoming a mom can take your lifelong habits, chew them up, and spit them out. So how do you build new ones when there's no such thing as a typical day in parenthood?In this Summer Rewind — our season one finale — Dr. Carrie Pagliano sits down with James Clear, author of the #1 New York Times bestseller Atomic Habits. Carrie picked up the book thinking it was about business... and realized it was secretly written for every mom trying to find herself again after kids.They get into systems over willpower, the four laws of behavior change, identity-based habits (casting a vote for the person you want to be), the two-minute rule, and how to set up your space to outsmart yourself. If you've ever set a goal to get back to movement in postpartum or perimenopause, this one was built for you.Lane note: returning to activity looks different for everybody — loop in your maternity care team and pelvic floor PT as you go.Time Stamps1:00 introduction1:35 setting habits for parents7:20 life as a series of seasons 10:00 comparison on social media15:22 navigating your identity as a parent 22:20 taking the first step to building the habit27:25 scaling to build momentum37:00 mental toughness as flexibility versus rigidity40:15 James’ experience as a parentCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH JAMESIG: https://www.instagram.com/jamesclear/Website: jamesclear.com Atomic Habits: atomichabits.comNewsletter: https://jamesclear.com/3-2-1The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailThin evidence. Loud opinions. And a body that still wanted to climb. That's where professional high-altitude climber Lotta Hintsa found herself when she got pregnant — wanting to stay active and keep doing her job, in an area where the research on altitude and pregnancy barely exists and everyone seemed to have a take on it.In this episode, Lotta walks me through how she navigated her own risk tolerance: gathering what evidence she could find, weighing it against her body and her experience, and making informed calls instead of fear-based ones. It's an honest look at staying active on your own terms when there's no roadmap handed to you.We talk about:-becoming a professional climber-motherhood as an extreme athlete-advice based on evidence instead of fear-losing contracts due to pregnancy-losing followers after getting pregnant-having a plan but not expectations-finding your identity as a mom🛟 Lane note: altitude and pregnancy is genuinely under-researched, and risk is individual. Decisions like these belong with your maternity care team — Lotta's story is her experience, not a guideline.Time Stamps1:00 introduction6:34 thinking about starting a family as an extreme athlete9:35 deciding where to go to for advice13:54 concerns with oxygen availability18:20 reactions of the climbing community and sponsors27:28 last weeks of pregnancy32:29 climbing a mountain versus having a baby36:00 exercise and activity postpartum43:22 expectations for competing as a new mom48:59 surprises in motherhoodCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLCONNECT WITH LOTTA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lottahintsa/Website: https://youtube.com/@highaltitudexperience?si=WS0EbOlKWiDb1bHxSubstack: lottahintsaThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 start rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailThis one's for every mom whose week is built around practices, meets, and the pool-deck waiting game. It's honest, real-talk strategy for squeezing your own training into a life that runs on everyone else's schedule — across postpartum all the way to perimenopause. No interview, just usable tactics, and it's landed with way more than the swim crowd.Today I speak with my fellow Swim Moms, Laura and JoAnne. And while you may think this episode is just an excuse to talk with my friends outside of swim practice, Laura and JoAnne share so much valuable intel on how to make time for your own workouts when your shuttling kids to their sports practices and meets. Laura, a mom of 2, is a recovering triathlete and a Commander in the Coast Guard. JoAnne, a mom of 3, has always used sports as a way to stay fit, but fell off the wagon after her daughter was born. When her oldest daughter was 8, she found her way back to fitness.We talk about:-being active as kids-becoming a morning person-different struggles with different age kids-setting the example for your kids-different seasons of the year-done is better than perfect-making family memoriesTime Stamps1:00 introduction5:59 we we stay fit9:45 changing fitness after each kid14:10 shifting to get up early19:05 shifts with older kids24:50 adapting to different seasons30:10 advice to your former self34:45 looking ahead to the next stage44:00 rapid fire questions CONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailGráinne Donnelly is back — and this time she's the editor and primary author of a brand-new Elsevier textbook, Sports Medicine and the Pelvic Floor: Science to Practice. It's the book this field has been waiting for... and the honest truth at its heart is that we don't know everything yet. What we do have is the clearest picture so far of where the science actually stands.An Advanced Practice Pelvic Health Physiotherapist and doctoral researcher, Gráinne walks us through what the current evidence shows on returning to running, graded loading, and where adjuncts like pelvic compression garments may fit — and what they can't promise. We get into grounded running as a bridge back to impact, the gap between research and real clinical life, and why "we don't actually know yet," said with confidence, beats the false certainty all over social media.A conversation for the clinicians and the active moms in the same room.Time Stamps1:00 introduction5:46 updates on the research11:40 external support garments20:24 clinical implications23:24 Sports Medicine and the Pelvic Floor - Science to Practice book33:13 planning for what is next41:50 storytelling as a form of health communication49:30 reexamining advice you give patients as you learn more CONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLCONNECT WITH GRÁINNE:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grainnedonnelly_absolutephysio/Website: www.absolute.physioThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailHildee Weiss didn't run her first full mile until she was 46. And honestly? She was convinced she'd look ridiculous doing it… like Phoebe from Friends, flailing around while everyone stared. (If you're Gen X, you already get it.)Fast forward 12 years and she's 57, a mom of five, a grandma of five, and she's done 5Ks, half marathons, trail races, two Spartan races… the whole thing. Not to shrink herself. Not to earn her food. Just because she gets to.We get into all of it: starting from zero in your 40s, finally walking away from the scale she called her "metal monster," lifting heavy after 50, and what it actually took to come back after a hysterectomy when she didn't even recognize herself anymore.If you've been telling yourself it's too late… I really want you to hear this one. Her book, Embracing My Inner Athlete, is out now.Time Stamps1:00 introduction7:10 having 5 children in 8 years10:05 Gen X weight loss culture15:29 changing mindset around diet and exercise19:11 chasing number goals23:16 difference in generations and how they view exercise26:15 remembering the first starting line35:58 redefining success and failure41:35 coming back from injury and hysterectomy49:01 it’s never too late to start51:41 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLCONNECT WITH HILDE:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momoffive68/Website: http://sites.google.com/view/Hildee-Weiss-authorThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the body that carried you through marathons suddenly starts changing the rules on you mid-stride…?In this episode, I sit down with Whitney Heins — founder of The Mother Runners run community, host of the Mother Runners Podcast, and a lifelong runner who chased an Olympic Qualifying marathon time through years of frustrating injuries before becoming a certified running coach herself. Whitney knows the gap between what training is supposed to look like and what running through motherhood and perimenopause actually feels like… and she's here to talk about all of it.We get into the realities of masters running: how shifting hormones change training, recovery, and injury risk as you move through perimenopause, why pelvic health belongs squarely in this conversation, and what it takes to stop rushing the comeback and start recovering smart. Whitney opens up about the mental side of injury — the pressure to bounce back fast, the identity tangled up in our race times — and how learning to reset goals instead of abandoning them can change your entire trajectory as an athlete. Plus, how raising active kids reshaped the way she thinks about her own running, and why staying open to doing things differently might be the most athletic move of all.Whether you're a runner navigating perimenopause, a mom training around real life, or a clinician supporting active women through these transitions — this conversation is for you.In this episode:Masters running and what really changes after 40Perimenopause, hormones & pelvic health for runnersThe mental load of injury recovery & the pressure to "bounce back"Resetting goals and expectations when your body shifts the rulesRaising active kids — and what they teach us about our own trainingTime Stamps1:00 introduction6:39 speaking “teenage boy”10:04 training your daughter14:30 navigating years of injury17:55 deciding to find a new coach23:55 talking more about perimenopause and menopause29:45 hormone therapy in perimenopause and menopause33:23 having guests on podcasts39:43 being open to trying something different43:50 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLCONNECT WITH WHITNEY:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themotherrunners/Website: www.themotherrunners.comThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailYour bones started changing before you noticed. Most women don't find out until something breaks.Dr. Jocelyn Wittstein — orthopedic surgeon at Duke and co-author of The Complete Bone and Joint Health Plan — is here to change that. We dig into what perimenopause and menopause actually do to your bones, joints, and shoulders, why osteoporosis risk flies under the radar for active women, and what the research on frozen shoulder and hormone therapy is finally telling us.If you've felt "off" in your body in your 40s and couldn't explain it… this is the episode.We cover:Bone density loss in perimenopause & menopauseFrozen shoulder, hormones & why women are disproportionately affectedOsteoporosis risk factors most providers missLow energy availability & your musculoskeletal systemSleep, nutrition & exercise for long-term bone healthWhat rehab after hip surgery actually looks likeNot medical advice. Always consult your own provider.Time Stamps1:00 introduction6:12 starting the perimenopause journey12:12 why do we wait until 65 for DEXA scan?18:23 the importance of HRT 23:20 how exercise intervention helps27:33 inflammation and joint pain37:04 putting together all of the symptoms41:45 changing reception of HRT43:40 advice to former self53:20 practical advice with nuance57:32 worst health traits62:41 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLCONNECT WITH JOCELYN:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jocelyn_wittstein_md/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 start rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailShe's run ultras. She's survived pregnancy nausea. She's raced with a baby at home. And she has opinions about all of it.In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Erin Kennedy Dalisay — ortho & sports PT, run coach, marathoner, ultramarathoner, and founder of RunWell Clinic — and we are getting into ALL of it. The stuff nobody talks about. The stuff every running mom is thinking but hasn't heard addressed from someone who actually lives it and has the clinical expertise to back it up.We talk about the myths that are still floating around out there about running through pregnancy and coming back postpartum, what it's actually like to deal with nausea when you're used to pushing your body hard, and the question everyone wants to know the answer to… is childbirth harder than an ultra?We also get into what it really means to have an orthopedic lens on postpartum recovery — why coming back as an injured runner and coming back as a postpartum runner have more in common than you'd think — plus the honest, unglamorous logistics of racing when you're also a parent.If you've ever tried to figure out how to hold on to your identity as a runner while also holding a baby… this one is for you.In this episode we cover:The biggest myths about running in pregnancy and postpartum — debunkedNausea during pregnancy: what helped, what didn't, and how to keep movingIs childbirth harder than an ultra? She's done both and she's not holding backComparing pre- and postpartum performance — and how to actually think about itWhat an orthopedic perspective adds to postpartum return to runningThe real logistics of racing and parenting — scheduling, childcare, guilt, all of it📌 Since this interview was recorded, Erin has announced she's expecting baby #2 — and she's sharing the whole journey on InstagramTime Stamps1:00 introduction4:19 running her first marathon at 166:45 navigating running and pregnancy14:04 returning to running postpartum18:06 surprises with birth and postpartum21:33 deciding to run an ultra28:58 a new understanding of running postpartum35:00 training postpartum41:45 comparing ultras and childbirth47:57 recovering from the ultra50:20 balancing everything 54:07 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLCONNECT WITH ERIN:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runwellclinic/Website: runwellclinic.comThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailShe was mid-serve at a volleyball match in Cyprus when the device fell out completely. It landed in her underwear. There was a crowd. She ran off the court, grabbed it, and ran back on—so fast her coach didn't even process what happened.That's Aimee Oliver's life as a high-impact athlete with stress urinary incontinence. And after 10 years of trial and error, devices, physio, compression shorts, counting how far she'd have to run to find a toilet before a Hyrox race—she finally reached her breaking point on a long run and said: enough.In this episode, Aimee opens up about the full arc of her journey—from the third-to-fourth degree tear after her first birth, to navigating leakage while representing Northern Ireland in volleyball, to qualifying for the Hyrox World Championships in Sweden and scheduling surgery for the Tuesday after she flies home. It's one of the most honest, specific, and relatable pelvic floor conversations we've had on this podcast.This isn't a story about giving up. It's about a woman who promised herself she would try everything—and what happens when you actually follow through on that promise.In this episode:What stress incontinence actually feels like during high-impact sport and competitionThe devices Aimee tried—what helped, what didn't, and one very memorable moment in CyprusWhy she dehydrated herself for years during national training camps (and what she knows now)Is pelvic floor PT always enough? A real, honest answerThe emotional weight of feeling broken in your own body as an athleteChoosing surgery: how she got there, how she picked her surgeon, and what urodynamics testing actually involvesCompeting in Hyrox Worlds—and scheduling surgery for two days after she lands homeThe genetic component: her mum, her daughter, and a pattern that can't be coincidenceRecovery realities: 3 months out of her training world and what she's doing with her headTime Stamps1:00 introduction4:42 speaking about her pelvic floor issues11:10 emotional struggles of feeling restricted15:43 investigating the cause of her symptoms23:50 overcoming the DIY hurdle27:35 deciding to have surgery and the experience39:04 doing all of the things42:23 life post-surgery50:00 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCourse waitlist: https://course.carriepagliano.com/RSAWLCONNECT WITH AIMEE:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bodyfitmums/Website: www.bodyfitmums.co.ukThis podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or create a provider-patient relationship. Always consult your own healthcare provider before making changes to your care.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailAfter interviewing 10 pelvic floor support device companies—6 internal, 4 external—Dr. Carrie Pagliano sits down with researcher and pelvic health physiotherapist and researcher Dr. Christina Prevett to do what she couldn't do alone: process it all.This is the debrief episode for the Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know mini-series—and it's where the real clinical conversation happens.Together they unpack what the marketing language actually means, how FDA clearance changes what a company can and can't say, why "neuromuscular facilitation" made Carrie twitch, and what both clinicians and consumers should actually be asking when considering a pelvic floor support device.They also tackle some of the bigger picture questions that came up across the series: When do you use a device alongside PT instead of waiting? What's the difference between a normal anatomical change and a symptomatic one? What does "failing PT" actually mean—and is it even the right framing? Who is a good candidate for internal versus external support? And how do access, cost, and geography affect all of it?This episode is for the clinician trying to make sense of an increasingly crowded market—and for the person with symptoms who just wants to know what might actually help.In this episode:Predispositions for pelvic floor dysfunction and non-modifiable anatomyUsing devices and PT in tandem, not in sequenceNormal pelvic changes versus symptomatic changesFDA-cleared vs. wellness device language—and why it mattersInternal versus external device profiles and patient fitIndustry-funded research: the double-edged swordAccess, cost, and the case for over-the-counter optionsGetting client buy-in when suggesting a deviceTime Stamps1:00 introduction3:15 PTs fitting pessaries and other devices9:21 prolapse management involving anatomy and symptoms14:44 physical comfort with pessaries17:58 cutting through the marketing20:45 FDA approval versus “wellness”26:10 studies versus real world use30:01 reality of external devices39:44 big takeaways from the seriesCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH CHRISTINA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.christina_prevett/Website: https://www.ksr.ualberta.ca/exerciseandpregnancy/Substack: https://christinaprevettphd.substack.com/This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice or create a provider-patient relationship.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with:Lauren Barker, CEO & Co-founder of Uresta—a company developing a self-managed internal support device for stress urinary incontinence.Uresta was designed to provide a more accessible alternative to traditional pessaries by allowing users to size, insert, and manage the device independently.We cover:  • how Uresta works mechanically (intravaginal bladder support)  • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)  • how sizing and fitting works without a clinician  • how to use it correctly and common mistakes  • how it compares to traditional pessaries  • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activityTime Stamps:1:00 introduction2:34 how Uresta started6:37 how to use Uresta10:46 who this is for12:52 explaining the studies16:38 real world use21:23 common misconceptions22:18 rapid fire questionsUresta is a reusable device designed for daily or situational use and is available direct-to-consumer without a prescription on their website.💲 Starter Kit: ~$179 USD 💲 Replacement Size: ~$129 USDDiscount Code:  https://uresta.com/ACTIVEMOM (10% off) Website: https://uresta.com⚠️ Disclaimer:This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series  Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with:Ariana Sopher, COO at Reia—a company developing a modern pessary for pelvic organ prolapse.Reia was designed to improve on traditional pessary models by allowing for easier insertion and removal through a collapsible shape and applicator system, making self-management more accessible.We cover:  • how Reia works mechanically (collapsible pessary + applicator system)  • how it compares to traditional pessaries  • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)  • how sizing and fitting works  • how patients access it (prescription-only model)  • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activityTime Stamps:1:00 introduction5:27 how Reia works10:04 who is this for?15:48 real world use21:55 common misconceptions25:27 rapid fire questionsReia is a prescription-only device available in the U.S. and New Zealand and must be ordered through a qualified healthcare provider.💲: Approximately $200 (pessary + applicator) Website:https://reiahealth.com Contact: [email protected]⚠️ Disclaimer:This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with:Steve Bollinger, Founder @Revive—an internal pelvic floor support device company based out of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.Revive was developed to address stress urinary incontinence and light bladder leakage by providing internal urethral support using a tampon-like applicator system.We cover:  • how Revive works mechanically (intravaginal urethral support)  • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)  • how to use it correctly and common mistakes  • how it compares to traditional pessaries  • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activityTime Stamps:1:00 introduction 2:52 how Revive started5:08 how Revive works9:01 who is this for?14:34 real world use19:18 common misconceptions23:44 rapid fire questionsRevive is a reusable device designed for daily or situational use and does not require sizing or clinician fitting, making it more accessible for many users.Their products are currently available in the U.S. via their website, Amazon, and Walmart.💲 ~$40–$60 per device (reusable; multi-pack options available)Discount Code: DOC10 (10% off any purchase)Website:https://userevive.com⚠️ Disclaimer:This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with:Goli Ameri, PhD (Head of Research) and Cara McDougall, MPT (Clinical Specialist, Founder of Toronto Pessary Clinic) from COSM Medical.COSM was founded by Derek Sham, BEng, MBA, whose background in developing widely used urodynamics systems helped shape a more personalized approach to pelvic health technology.COSM Gynethotics are custom-designed intravaginal devices created using 3D printing technology to match an individual’s anatomy and symptom presentation.We cover:  • how COSM Gynethotics work (internal structural support for prolapse + incontinence)  • how they differ from traditional pessaries (personalization vs standard sizing)  • who they may be a good fit for (including those who haven’t found success with standard devices)  • how the fitting process works (clinical exam + collaborative design)  • what to expect (manufacturing time, trial period, real-world use)  • where they fit alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activityTime stamps:1:00 introduction3:41 how COSM started7:43 how COSM works12:06 who it’s for15:59 dealing with avulsions17:20 real world use24:09 common misconceptions27:19 rapid fire questionsThese devices are not available over the counter and must be accessed through trained healthcare providers in Canada and the United States, including professionals already fitting pessaries (such as pelvic health physical therapists).💲 ~$500 CAD per device  Website:https://cosm.care⚠️ Disclaimer:This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with:Melody Roberts, CEO & Co-founder of Liv Labs—a company developing a pelvic floor fitness device designed to support active women.Pippa is an internal resistance-based device that works by creating load within the vaginal canal to stimulate neuromuscular activation of the pelvic floor during movement.We cover:  • how Pippa works mechanically (internal resistance vs passive support)  • who it may be a good fit for (active women, runners, fitness-focused users)  • who it’s not designed for (e.g. prolapse support)  • how to use it correctly (applicator-based insertion)  • common misconceptions about strengthening and performance  • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activityTime Stamps:1:00 introduction2:30 how Pippa got started5:59 how Pippa works8:55 who is this for?12:34 research and development15:24 real world use19:30 common misconceptions24:26 quick fire questionsPippa is available direct-to-consumer in the U.S. and is designed for reusable, independent use.💲 Starter Kit: $99 💲 Fit Kit: $149Discount Code: ACTIVE-MOMS-FOR-THE-WIN (10% off + free shipping)  Website:https://livlabsfitness.com⚠️ Disclaimer:This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with:Sandra Whittle, pelvic health physiotherapist and inventor of SomaFlex—a device designed to provide a softer, more flexible approach to internal pelvic support.SomaFlex was developed to offer an alternative to more rigid internal devices by using a multi-directional, shape-shifting design that blends with the body’s tissues.We cover:  • how SomaFlex works mechanically (flexible intravaginal support)  • how it differs from traditional pessaries  • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)  • how sizing and fitting works  • how to use it correctly and common mistakes  • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activityTime Stamps:1:00 introduction2:45 how SOMA started8:48 who this is for10:34 real life application16:07 common misunderstandings20:36 dealing with birth injuries22:51 quick fire questionsSomaFlex is available as a starter kit and single units, designed for independent use and flexible wear depending on activity level.💲 Starter Kit: ~£80 💲 Single Unit: ~£60Discount Code: CP10 (10% off purchase) Website:https://somalives.com⚠️ Disclaimer:This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with:Lauren Fleming, Founder @HEM Support Wear—an external pelvic floor support device company based out of Central Texas (just outside Austin).HEM Support Wear is a woman-founded pelvic health company redefining what support looks and feels like. After developing pelvic organ prolapse following the birth of her first child, Lauren couldn’t find a discreet, comfortable option that actually helped—so she created one.We cover: • how the device works mechanically • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not) • how to use and fit it in real life • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activityTime Stamps:1:00 Introduction2:30 the founding of HEM4:21 how HEM works6:30 who this is for9:31 real world use12:332 common misconceptions15:37 rapid fire questionsHEM’s patented support garment uses an internal support panel to gently lift and support the pelvic floor—designed to integrate into daily life rather than feel like a brace or medical device.Their devices are currently available online via their website, with shipping across the U.S. and internationally (Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and Canada).💲 ~$70–$130 (varies by product type and bundle)💻 DISCOUNT CODE: $15 off with code ACTIVEMOM15🔗https://hemsupportwear.com⚠️ Disclaimer:This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with:Jeanice Mitchell, Inventor @myPelvicBra—an external pelvic floor support device company based out of Central Texas (Killeen).As a pelvic floor physical therapist with prolapse herself, she set out to create a device that offered supportive, discreet, external lift—something she couldn’t find in existing pelvic health products.We cover: • how the device works mechanically • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not) • how to use and fit it in real life • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activityTime Stamps:1:00 introduction3:15 how My Pelvic Bra was founded7:00 how it works12:31 who is this for16:17 real world use20:55 common misconceptions25:19 rapid fire questionsTheir devices are currently available online via their website and Amazon, with global shipping (where DHL ships).💲 ~$49-$79 USD (depending on style and configuration)Discount Code: Active25 (25% off your first product) Website:https://mypelvicbra.shop⚠️ Disclaimer:This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-series Inside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with:Sinead O’Donovan, Founder SRCHealth—an external pelvic floor support garment company based out of Port Melbourne, Australia.After experiencing significant pelvic girdle pain and postpartum recovery challenges, Sinead set out to create a garment that could provide functional, comfortable support for women navigating pregnancy and recovery.We cover:  • how SRC garments work mechanically (panel-based compression)  • the role of perineal support in symptom management  • who it may be a good fit for (and who it’s not)  • how to properly measure and fit the garment  • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activityTime Stamps:1:00 introduction3:30 founding SRC6:49 explaining different support garments12:05 who these are for15:45 testing and research17:46 real-world use23:19 answering common concernsSRC garments are designed to provide gentle, sustained compression—not high-pressure “shapewear”—to support muscle activation, symptom reduction, and recovery across pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond.Their products are available worldwide via their website and through clinicians trained in fitting and prescription.💲 ~$180–$220 (AUD) ≈ $115–$145 USD (depending on exchange rate)Discount Code: https://srchealth.com/?ref=ACTIVEMOM10 (10% off any purchase) Website:https://srchealth.com⚠️ Disclaimer:This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast mini-seriesInside Pelvic Floor Support: Devices, Fit & What You Should Know, we’re speaking with:Rosie Dumbrell, physiotherapist and founder of Everform Therapywear—a company developing compression garments designed specifically for pelvic floor support.Everform uses a targeted compression system (Femcore™ technology) to provide more support to the pelvic floor and lower abdomen—aiming to improve symptoms like leakage, heaviness, and pelvic girdle pain.We cover: • how Everform works mechanically (pelvic floor-first compression + lift effect) • how it differs from traditional shapewear or compression • who it may be a good fit for (pregnancy, postpartum, active women, perimenopause) • how to properly fit and wear the garments • common mistakes and troubleshooting • where it fits alongside pelvic floor rehab and return to activityTime Stamps:1:00 Introduction2:47 how Everform started6:20 how it works10:27 who it’s for15:53 how to get it19:59 research involved in design23:37 quick fire questionsEverform garments are designed for daily wear and activity, with options ranging from underwear to full compression leggings.Their products are available globally via their website and through clinician-supported fitting.💲 ~$99–$159 AUD (~$65–$105 USD) Discount Code: ACTIVEMOM15 ($15 off your purchase) Website: https://everformwear.com.au⚠️ Disclaimer:This content is for education only and does not replace individualized medical care. Pelvic floor symptoms are complex and highly individual—always consult your own provider before making changes.The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn Part 2 of this conversation, I’m joined again by Melissa Davidson, specialist pelvic health physiotherapist, clinical educator, and PhD, to go deeper into the clinical realities of pelvic organ prolapse, levator ani avulsions, and pessary use.This episode moves beyond definitions and into what actually matters in practice: clinical decision-making, patient education, and navigating an evolving pelvic health landscape where access is expanding—but not always with the training to support it.We talk about how to explain complex diagnoses in a way patients can actually understand, why accurate assessment matters, and how clinicians can balance symptom management with long-term capacity building.We also unpack the growing conversation around pessaries—including types, fitting considerations, complications, and the rise of over-the-counter options—and what that means for both patients and providers.This is a nuanced conversation about where pelvic health care is right now… and where it still needs to go.In this episode, we discuss: Different types of pessaries and how they’re used  What levator avulsions are (and why they matter)  Clinical decision-making in prolapse care  Potential complications and limitations of pessary use  The importance of provider training and ongoing education  What “high tone” actually means (and why it’s often misunderstood)  The role of mental health and psychological support in pelvic floor conditionsTime Stamps1:00 avulsions explained7:05 proper diagnoses of pelvic floor issues14:00 over-the-counter pessaries20:55 cutting through the marketing29:33 expanding access while preserving quality care33:33 what we don’t know40:26 how the research changes clinical practiceCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH MELISSA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmelissapelvicphysio/Website: https://www.drmelissadavidson.com/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with Melissa Davidson, specialist physiotherapist in pelvic health, clinical educator, and PhD, to break down some of the most misunderstood topics in pelvic health. From prolapse to levator avulsions to the role of pessaries, this conversation focuses on what’s actually happening in the body and how we can move away from fear-based messaging toward informed, empowering care.We discuss the reality of anatomical changes, what “normal” really means, and why modification is often more helpful than restriction. Melissa shares clinical insight on assessing and managing prolapse, understanding tissue changes, and helping women feel more confident in their bodies across different life stages, including menopause.We talk about:-Modification over restriction-The role and use of pessaries-Normal anatomical changes-The importance of proper measurements-Tearing and levator avulsions-HRT considerations in menopauseTime Stamps1:00 Introduction6:58 the reality of prolapse17:04 the anatomy of a prolapse21:53 understanding what “normal” means27:45 empowering women before birth31:15 tearing and avulsions38:18 the perineumCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH MELISSA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmelissapelvicphysio/Website: https://www.drmelissadavidson.com/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailWhat if improving postpartum care in the U.S. didn’t cost anything—but still hasn’t happened?In this episode, I sit down with pelvic floor physical therapist and advocate Gail Zitterkopf, PT, DPT to break down the Optimizing Postpartum Outcomes Act (H.R. 4074)—and why it matters more than most people realize.We get into what this bill actually does, how systems like Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP shape access to care, and why pelvic floor therapy is still missing from standard pregnancy and postpartum support. The surprising part? This bill has been scored at zero cost—and still hasn’t passed. This conversation is about more than policy—it’s about access, awareness, and what it will take to move women’s health forward.In this episode, we cover: What the Postpartum Care Bill (H.R. 4074) actually means  The role of Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP in postpartum care  Why gaps in care still exist—and what needs to change  How to contact your representatives and support the bill  Why your story matters in advocacyTime Stamps1:00 Introduction3:30 origins of the bill8:15 explaining the bill11:50 actions you can take19:00 increasing awareness CONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH GAIL:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aptapelvic/Resource links:Bill As Entered into Federal Register: H.R.4074 - 119th Congress (2025-2026): Optimizing Postpartum Outcomes Act of 2025 | Congress.gov | Library of CongressAcademy Letter Template and Resources: https://www.aptapelvichealth.org/hr4074  Contact your legislatorsHouse: https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representativeSenate: https://www.senate.gov/senators/senators-contact.htmAPTA advocacy resourcesWebsite: https://www.apta.org/advocacyApp:  APTA Advocacy AppThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailWhat does pregnancy and postpartum really look like for female athletes—especially at the elite level?And more importantly… are we still treating it like a problem to manage instead of a phase to train through?In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast, I sit down with Emma Brockwell, pelvic health physiotherapist working at the highest levels of women’s sport—including Women’s Super League football, FIFA, and the Netball Super League.Emma has been at the forefront of shifting the conversation around pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and return to sport—not just in clinical settings, but on the field with professional athletes.She’s also:Co-founder of The Athletic FemaleCo-author of the 2019 UK Postpartum Return to Running GuidelineAuthor of Why Did No One Tell Me?This conversation goes beyond rehab timelines and checklists.We get into the evolution of care—from fear-based, overly cautious approaches to a more modern, performance-informed model that respects both physiology and athletic identity.We talk about:The old model vs the new model of pregnancy & postpartum care in athletesWhat’s actually happening with female pro athletes during pregnancy and postpartumWhy fear-based messaging is still showing up—and how to move beyond itHow to maintain play and training during pregnancy (not just “stay active”)Navigating hyperemesis and exerciseWhy avoiding deconditioning matters more than we thinkThe ongoing debate around relaxin and injury riskWhat clinicians and coaches often miss when supporting postpartum athletesResearch We Discuss:“Kicking Off Motherhood: Considering Return to Play Postpartum in the Footballer” Sports Medicine, August 25, 2025“Pregnant Pitches: Navigating Football Before and During Pregnancy” Sports Medicine, August 25, 2025“Stepping into Play: a FIFA decision aid for football participation after childbirth” British Journal of Sports Medicine, March 2026These papers are helping reshape how we think about return to play—not as a fixed timeline, but as a decision-making process grounded in context, capacity, and the individual athlete.🎧 Listen, Subscribe & Share:If this episode changed how you think about pregnancy, postpartum, or return to sport—share it with a coach, clinician, or athlete who needs to hear it.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction8:25 the rise of the professional female athlete15:29 investigations risks of contact 20:40 making individual decisions27:43 taking the comparison out of pregnancy35:13 breastfeeding and injuries43:40 the importance of sleep47:30 RED-s and low energy availability57:17 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH EMMA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/physiomumuk/Website: www.physiomum.co.ukThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailWhat does it actually look like to keep running when life shifts in a big way — like pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and becoming a parent?In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast, I’m joined by Laura Norris — certified running coach, science writer, and co-host of the Tread Lightly Podcast. Laura has coached more than 500 runners, from brand-new runners to podium finishers, and is known for bringing a thoughtful, evidence-informed approach to training. You may also recognize her work from Runner’s World, NPR Life Kit, Outside, GQ, Self, and Shape, or from her long-running website and Substack.But this conversation isn’t just about coaching theory.Laura shares what it was like to move through pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and the transition into motherhood while continuing to run, coach athletes, and rethink what training and performance look like in a new season of life.We talk about the messy middle — the recalibration that happens when your body, priorities, sleep, and identity are all shifting at once.This is a thoughtful, honest conversation about running, motherhood, mental health, and the evolving relationship many women have with sport over time.We talk about:Running through pregnancy and postpartumLearning to listen to your body when expectations and reality don’t matchThe identity shift that can come with transitioning into motherhoodRecognizing and talking openly about postpartum depressionGetting your kids outside and building a family culture around movementHow Laura’s coaching philosophy has evolved after becoming a momIf you’re navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or the early years of motherhood while trying to stay connected to running, this conversation will likely feel very familiar.And if you coach runners? Laura shares some great perspective on how lived experience changes the way we guide others.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction2:18 distilling studies in a concise way5:09 navigating running and motherhood12:33 having a breech baby16:17 recovering from a c-section22:28 handling different stages of childhood29:15 finding yourself in motherhood34:20 being a running coach38:43 collaborations on the podcast43:50 exposure and normalization48:03 rapid fir questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH LAURA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauranorrisrunning/Website: https://lauranorrisrunning.substack.com/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailThe Active Mom Podcast just crossed 100,000 downloads and 200+ episodes, which honestly feels a little surreal. So for this one, I did something a little different… In this solo episode, I reflect on how the podcast started back when it was the Active Mom Postpartum Podcast, how it evolved into conversations about pregnancy, postpartum, pelvic floor health, return to running, perimenopause, and menopause, and some of the guests and moments that shaped the show along the way.I talk about the interviews that challenged my thinking the most, the hardest episodes to record, and how talking with researchers, clinicians, athletes, and everyday moms has changed the way I practice as a pelvic floor physical therapist.This podcast has always been about one thing: making women’s health research, pelvic floor information, women's stories and real conversations about movement and performance more accessible.In this episode I talk about:• Why I started the Active Mom Podcast • What it means to reach 100,000 downloads in a very niche space • How the show evolved from postpartum conversations to women’s health across the lifespan • Some of the guests and research conversations that shaped my thinking • The episodes that were the hardest to record • Misunderstandings that still exist around pelvic floor function and exercise • What I hope the next chapter of the podcast createsIf you've been listening for a while, I'd love to hear your favorite episode or guest — send me a message and let me know.If this podcast has helped you feel more informed, less alone, or more confident navigating symptoms like leakage, prolapse, pain, or return to running, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐review.Thanks for being here and for helping make 200 episodes possible.Topics discussed: pelvic floor health, postpartum recovery, return to running, women’s health, pregnancy exercise, perimenopause, menopause, prolapse, leakage, research in women’s healthTime Stamps1:00 Introduction2:57 quick fire questions7:20 why I started the podcast11:31 how the show has evolved15:39 shifts in clinical practice19:44 new things we’ve learned22:17 difficult episodes to record27:14 looking back at the start30:55 most overused phrases in women’s health36:27 changing your mind over timeCONNECT WITH CARRIEIf you’re looking for deeper support — whether you’re postpartum, navigating perimenopause, or trying to run and lift without symptoms — reach out. IG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailMenopause care is changing — but not fast enough.In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast, I sit down with Ingrid Harm-Ernandes, PT — a physical therapist with more than 40 years of experience in women’s health, known as “The Pelvic Detective” on YouTube and author of The Musculoskeletal Mystery: How to Solve Your Pelvic Floor Symptoms. Ingrid has spent decades pushing for earlier access to pelvic health care, better clinical reasoning, and more respect for the complexity of women’s bodies across the lifespan.This conversation isn’t about trendy soundbites. It’s about what’s actually shifting in menopause and perimenopause care — and what still needs to change.We talk honestly about why individualized pelvic floor treatment matters more than ever, how exercise plays a critical role in perimenopause and menopause, and why we need to stop oversimplifying women’s health into one-size-fits-all solutions. Ingrid shares perspective from four decades in practice — what’s improved, what hasn’t, and what we can learn from previous generations of women who were told their symptoms were “just part of aging.”We also unpack the role of social media in pelvic health education — the good, the bad, and the nuance — and how emerging research in women’s health is shaping more comprehensive, lifespan-based care.If you care about pelvic floor dysfunction, menopause symptoms, individualized rehab, strength training in midlife, or long-term musculoskeletal health for active women — this conversation is for you.We discuss:Advocacy for better women’s health care and earlier access to pelvic PTThe evolution of menopause and perimenopause treatmentWhy individualized pelvic floor care is essentialExercise, strength, and musculoskeletal health in midlifeCoordinating the pelvic floor with the whole systemEmerging research shaping women’s healthWhat we can learn from previous generationsSupporting women across the full lifespanMenopause isn’t an endpoint. It’s a transition. And women deserve care that reflects that.If this episode resonates, share it with a friend who needs better answers.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction7:28 the rise in awareness around menopause and perimenopause12:25 the role of PTs in menopause care16:30 exercise in perimenopause 21:20 how advice has changed28:40 bridging the gap between postpartum and perimenopause32:10 including strength training and plyometrics39:25 opportunities for increasing awareness46:25 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH INGRID:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harmernandes/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingrid-harm-ernandes-5057773b/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailWhat are we getting right — and wrong — about the hip–pelvic floor connection?In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Jenny LaCross, PhD, ATC, PT and Dr. Laurel Proulx, PT, DPT to unpack the evolving conversation around pelvic floor dysfunction, hip mechanics, stress urinary incontinence, and clinical reasoning in women’s health physical therapy.Jenny is a certified athletic trainer and board-certified women’s health physical therapist with extensive experience treating pelvic health, hip, and low back conditions. Laurel focuses on modernizing pelvic health through research and education while bridging the gap between rehab and fitness. Together, they challenge oversimplified narratives around “weak vs. tight” pelvic floors and advocate for a more nuanced, individualized, impairment-based framework.We dive into how myths continue to shape patient care, why clinicians may be focusing on the wrong impairments, and what the research actually supports when it comes to pelvic floor strength, high tone, levator ani considerations, urethral support, and morphologic variability.If you’re a pelvic floor PT, orthopedic clinician, strength coach, or rehab professional working with active women navigating leakage, pelvic pain, prolapse, or hip–pelvic floor crossover symptoms, this episode offers practical insight into assessment, communication, and evidence-informed decision-making.In this episode, we talk about:The relationship between the hip and pelvic floor — what we know and what remains unclearDebunking common pelvic floor myths that influence treatment plansWhy clinicians may be focusing on the wrong impairments in patient careThe levator ani’s role in stress urinary incontinencePelvic floor strength — and why strength alone doesn’t tell the whole storyHigh tone pelvic floor presentations and how to interpret findingsUrethral failure and the potential role of geneticsCommon morphologic variations and how anatomy impacts functionThe big clinical takeaways for improving pelvic health assessment and treatmentThis is a thoughtful, research-informed conversation designed to help you move beyond black-and-white thinking and deliver smarter, individualized pelvic floor care.If you’re committed to advancing women’s health physical therapy and refining your clinical reasoning in pelvic rehab, this one’s for you.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction7:15 debunking common pelvic floor myths15:23 focusing on the wrong things with patient care18:15 the levator ani and incontinence23:27 pelvic floor strength27:05 pelvic floor high tone35:35 common morphologic variations45:36 the big take home adviceCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH LAUREL & JENNY:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenn.lacross/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.laurelproulx/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailWhat starts as a quick run to get out of the house… can end up changing your entire life.In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast, I sit down with running creator Erica Kennedy aka @inmyrunningerica to talk about how running helped her survive an abusive marriage — and slowly rebuild her confidence, independence, and sense of self one mile at a time.Now she’s the voice behind the hilarious IG posts that we runners can’t stop sharing — from what to wear in Bald Headed Scallywags winter-storm running weather to her spot-on anatomy jokes and injury stories that make every runner say, “wait… that’s literally me.”But behind the humor is real Life.We talk about:🔷 finding time to run while raising three kids in completely different life stages🔷 navigating running injuries without losing your sanity 🔷finding the right running shoe (& then losing it)🔷 the reality (and challenges) of home gym life🔷 what it actually means to be a “running influencer” (and whether your neighbors even know)🔷 the wild story of how she almost got scammed by “Asics.”Plus: a run-stalking murder mystery that proves runner stories are never boring, with both of us unanimously deciding that mutual friend @lauramcgreen will singlehandedly lead the investigation and the GoFundMe. (You're going to have to listen to get this one!  It's worth it!)Because running isn’t just pace and mileage.Sometimes it’s survival. Sometimes it’s therapy. Sometimes it’s the only 30 minutes that’s yours.  And sometimes it's a great time to share a laugh.If you’ve ever needed a run to keep your sanity — you’ll feel very seen in this one.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction4:30 creating funny skits10:22 finding the right time to run17:05 struggling with injury21:32 sponsorships and scams27:41 home gyms and strength training34:42 mom life and kid personalities41:39 what her parents think47:09 rapid fire questionCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH ERICA:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inmyrunningerica/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.   This show has been a long time in the making!    You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.    If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!   If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 start rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when pregnancy, postpartum recovery, and military fitness standards collide?Because “light duty” doesn’t exactly exist when you’re a soldier… or a mom.In this episode of the Active Mom Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Megan Jones, a civilian physical therapist who has spent nearly her entire career embedded inside the military system, helping pregnant and postpartum service members stay strong, capable, and mission-ready.She works at the intersection of tactical athletes, pelvic health, strength training, and postpartum performance — supporting women who are expected to carry heavy loads, pass fitness tests, deploy, and return to high-level activity… often while navigating pregnancy, birth recovery, and pelvic floor symptoms that rarely get talked about out loud.And honestly? So much of this mirrors what our everyday runners and lifters face too.We talk about what actually prepares women for the long game — not just “clearing” a 6-week checkup or surviving a fitness test.Because strength isn’t optional. Recovery isn’t weakness. And asking better questions changes everything.Inside this episode, we cover:Military fitness test standards and expectations for womenPostpartum return-to-fitness for tactical athletesWhy lifting during and after pregnancy matters more than everPelvic floor + psychosocial components of recoveryAsking smarter clinical questions (not just chasing symptoms)Running and coaching through pregnancy and postpartumHow to help women stay active for decades — not just monthsWhether you’re a clinician, coach, military service member, or an active mom trying to get back to running and lifting without leaks, pain, or fear… this conversation will expand how you think about pregnancy and postpartum performance.Because women don’t need to shrink their lives to fit their bodies.We need better support systems.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction3:39 expectations for female service members9:17 standardizing the Army’s pregnancy/postpartum fitness 14:14 culture and accountability20:09 combating outdated information22:53 advice for working with tactical athletes29:39 process of seeing a PT in the military34:13 running and finding ultras41:30 lifting early in postpartum45:09 finding the right resources50:18 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH MEGAN:Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/reclaimfxn/Website: www.reclaimfxn.comThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we welcome back Carter Norbo—home health physical therapist, lifelong runner, and mom to two-year-old twins and a five-month-old baby.After narrowly missing qualification for the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in 2024 following the birth of her twins, Carter returned to racing postpartum and is now officially qualified for the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials—just months after welcoming her third baby.Balancing full-time work, elite-level marathon training, and life with three kids under three, Carter shares what returning to high-level competition after pregnancy actually looks like. This is an honest conversation about postpartum recovery, training through pregnancy, fueling, strength work, and learning when less is more.We talk about:How her mindset around training during pregnancy has evolvedQualifying for the 2028 Olympic Marathon Trials postpartumThe realities and logistics of training as a twin momThe role of strength training during pregnancy and after birthLearning to be flexible when life (and recovery) demand itFueling appropriately for long runs while breastfeeding and postpartumWhy more training is not always better—especially after pregnancyThis episode is a must-listen for runners navigating pregnancy, postpartum return to running, or anyone curious about what it really takes to train at a high level while raising a family—without burning out or breaking down.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction2:29 going for another Olympic Trials qualification9:23 race day experience15:25 lessons from being a mom18:12 differences between pregnancies21:10 advice for her previous self27:03 plans for the future30:19 the Rabbit Chase Team37:35 Lever system for treadmill42:45 fueling and hydrating for running47:18 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH CARTER:Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/cnorbo/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I sit down with Shannon Rowbury—Olympic bronze medalist, one of the most accomplished middle-distance runners in U.S. history, and Emmy Award winner for her work with NBC’s 2024 Olympic coverage—and Jessica Dorrington, a pelvic floor physical therapist, runner, and all-around grounded voice in pregnancy and postpartum fitness.Together, they co-authored Strong as a Mother and founded 4Two, a platform built to give moms what so many of us were searching for: clear, practical, evidence-informed guidance during pregnancy and postpartum—without fear-based messaging or one-size-fits-all rules.This is an honest conversation about strength, running, identity, and motherhood. We talk about what it’s like to search for return-to-sport guidance even when you’re an elite athlete, why “just listen to your body” isn’t always enough, and how small, actionable information can make a huge difference when your nervous system, hormones, and life are already maxed out.We also get into the bigger picture: how pregnancy and postpartum experiences can look completely different—between people and between pregnancies—and why letting go of rigid ideas of “right” and “wrong” movement is often where real confidence starts.In this episode, we cover:Why Strong as a Mother was written—and the real gaps it aims to fill in pregnancy and postpartum careWhat elite athletes struggle with when returning to running after babyWhy bite-sized, practical education matters more than perfect plansHow to improve systems and conversations for the next generation of momsWhy every pregnancy and postpartum season deserves its own resetLearning to trust your body again without forcing itLetting go of fear, rules, and comparison in pregnancy and postpartum movementIf you’re pregnant, postpartum, a runner, a clinician, or someone who just wants better information without the noise—this episode is for you.Get Strong as a Mother: Your Complete Pregnancy-to-Postpartum Health Program on preorder NOW on Amazon.com with release on February 17 2026.PT's, Meet Jess at APTA CSM in Anaheim in the exhibit hall Booth #1725 Feb 12-14th!Time Stamps1:00 Introduction5:24 Strong as a Mother book13:50 comparison and the algorithm19:04 busting common myths27:40 pregnancy as a professional athlete33:53 domino effect of progress41:54 overcoming fear in pregnancy46:25 filling in the gaps52:46 getting support56:16 favorite parts of the book61:35 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH JESSICA AND SHANNON:Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/4twomom/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessica.w.dorrington/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonrowbury/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taibethanypt/Website: https://4twomom.com/about-usWebsite: Shannonrowbury.comWebsite: https://www.therapeuticassociates.com/locations/oregon/portland-metro/bethany/Book: The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I’m joined by Jenna Schulz, MPT, PhD, a physiotherapist and postdoctoral fellow at the University of British Columbia whose work lives right at the intersection of research and real life. Jenna studies things like inflammation in knee osteoarthritis, female athlete health, and longevity in sport—and more recently, how evidence can actually guide movement during pregnancy and postpartum (not just live in a paper somewhere).Jenna is also a former varsity cross-country and track athlete, which makes this conversation especially grounded. We talk honestly about what returning to movement after baby really looks like, why progress is almost never linear, and how so many moms end up stuck because of unnecessary rules, expectations, or “shoulds.”This is a practical, evidence-informed conversation for both clinicians and moms—focused on removing barriers, using research wisely, and starting where you are right now, not where you think you should be.We talk about:How to think about prescribing exercise during pregnancy and postpartumWhy “movement snacks” and small bouts of activity actually matterStarting where you are (and why that’s not settling)Common barriers that stop new moms from moving—and how to lower themWhy non-linear progress is normal, not a failureTranslating research into real-world clinical and everyday practiceIf you’re a mom trying to get back into movement—or a clinician supporting women through pregnancy and postpartum—this episode will help you rethink what progress really means and how to make movement feel more doable again.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction4:56 cardio-respiratory fitness in pregnancy & postpartum9:15 starting exercise during pregnancy16:50 nuance around what postpartum can look like20:00 general guidelines rooted in evidence24:50 return to activity graphic30:13 return to sport guidelines in postpartum35:00 FAIR consensus42:10 navigating the research as a clinician54:17 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH JENNA:Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/the.rungry.researcher/Email: [email protected] Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIs Pilates enough?  How much is "enough" protein?  What does "lifting heavy" ACTUALLY mean?In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Alyssa Olenick, PhD, founder of Doc Lyss Fitness and creator of The Lyss Method, to break down what the research actually shows about strength training and protein in perimenopause.As a strength athlete, ultramarathon runner, and certified sports nutritionist, Alyssa bridges the gap between science and real-world training. Together, we cut through fear-based messaging, social-media misinformation, and one-size-fits-all advice to talk honestly about what matters most for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and midlife fitness.This is a grounded, evidence-informed conversation for women who want to train smarter, feel stronger, and move with confidence—without overcomplicating it or chasing extremes.In this episode, we cover:The massive knowledge gap around strength training for womenIs Pilates enough—and how to know when it’s time to add loadTraining to failure: what it means and whether you’re actually training hard enoughWhy quality matters more than quantity in midlife trainingHow to start with what feels accessible and build from thereBuilding confidence in the gym (especially if you feel behind)Fueling to support training and recoveryProtein needs, fiber, and common nutrition misconceptionsIs it menopause, aging, or both—and how to think about that questionIf you’ve ever wondered whether you’re doing too little, too much, or just the wrong thing when it comes to training in perimenopause—this episode will bring clarity, perspective, and relief.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction2:37 approaching the perimenopause space5:28 questions women are asking10:20 hesitancy with women and strength training14:49 is something better than nothing?19:54 training to failure23:54 intensity brings interest27:20 a place for group fitness31:49 setting expectations & building confidence42:26 the protein obsession54:25 don’t forget fiber!58:27 the ones question we need to ask70:00 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH ALYSSA:Instagram: www.instagram.com/doclyssfitness Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCW4CCAMyceAtaGVKhpUqcfQPodcast: https://doclyssfitness.com/podcast/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Active Mom Podcast, I’m joined again by Dr. Rita Deering, PT, DPT, PhD — Associate Professor of Physical Therapy and Director of the Movement Sciences Laboratory at Carroll University. With 18+ years of clinical experience and 15 years specializing in pelvic health, Dr. Deering is a leading researcher in perinatal musculoskeletal health, pregnancy and postpartum exercise, pelvic floor function, and female athlete performance.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone navigating the overwhelm of women’s health information — clinicians, coaches, athletes, and moms trying to get real answers outside the noise. We dig into how to actually interpret research (not just quote it), what different study types really mean, and how to confidently separate evidence-based guidance from trending misinformation on social media.Whether you’re dealing with pelvic floor symptoms, postpartum return to running or lifting, perimenopause changes, or pregnancy athletic performance, this episode brings clarity to the research so you can make informed decisions with confidence.We break down:What “evidence-based” actually means in pelvic health & pregnancy fitnessDifferent types of research (RCTs, systematic reviews, case studies) and how to interpret themWhy outliers in research don’t invalidate lived experienceMaking research relatable and useful for everyday moms & athletesHow AI, algorithms, and social media fuel misinformationTranslating research to clinical practice without fear-based messagingWhy respectful, nuanced conversation in women’s health actually helps patientsTime Stamps1:00 Introduction3:15 making research accessible7:58 what is PubMed13:50 different types of research18:20 transferring research to the clinic22:44 looking at the studies33:19 different levels of evidence37:04 systematic reviews and meta analysis43:10 changing approach to implementing research48:55 where the funding goes51:20 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH RITA:IG: https://www.instagram.com/ritadeeringphd/Website: https://www.carrollu.edu/faculty/deering-rita-phdThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailComing in at #1 on our list of top podcasts for 2025 is my conversation with Christina Prevett.We close Season 4 of the podcast catching up with @dr.christina_prevett—pelvic health physiotherapist, competitive weightlifter, CrossFit athlete, mom of two, & total powerhouse for strength training across the lifespan. (rumor has it she bought a Garmin watch & is now a runner too !?!)💪✨Dr. Prevett is deep in a postdoctoral fellowship studying resistance training in the perinatal space and its impact on pelvic floor health. Spoiler: her insights are game-changing for active moms & the pros supporting them.We dive into:🔹 Balancing research with real-world practice🔹 Preventing diastasis recti (the dreaded ab gap)🔹 Staying strong with impact through pregnancy & postpartum🔹 Shifting from fear of symptoms to confidence in your body🔹 Cutting through the noise with simplified fitness advice🔹 Why sleep actually matters more than you think💬 Ever wondered if strength training is safe during pregnancy or postpartum? We’re breaking it all down. Tune in now!Time Stamps1:00 – Introduction3:41 – Christina’s PhD & postdoctoral work9:30 – Deconditioning during pregnancy15:50 – The importance of impact23:12 – Maintaining impact from youth to menopause32:15 – Fewer restrictions, more empowerment46:23 – Running a half marathon postpartum57:45 – Personalized care & evolving recommendations65:40 – Navigating menopause and fitnessCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH CHRISTINA:Instagram: @dr.christina_prevettWebsite: Exercise and PregnancyBarbell Mamas: @thebarbellmamasThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailComing in at #2 on our list of top podcasts for 2025 is my conversation with Dr. Lauren Colenso-SempleWhat if most of what you’ve been told about fitness, hormones, and nutrition as a woman… isn’t actually true?In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, PhD aka @drlaurencs1—muscle physiology researcher, science communicator, and co-owner of the MASS Research Review—to set the record straight on what actually matters for women’s health and fitness.Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, chasing strength goals, or just tired of sorting facts from fads, this conversation will leave you informed, empowered, and ready to ditch the outdated advice.We break down the science on:  🔹 Cycle syncing: helpful or just hype? 🔹 Fasting, protein timing, and muscle growth 🔹 What women really need for bone density and strength 🔹 The biggest nutrition myths still circulating 🔹 Why most social media advice doesn’t apply to women 🔹 The future of evidence-based women’s healthIf you’ve ever wondered how to train smarter, fuel better, and feel confident in your body at any age—this one’s for you.👉 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a friend who’s ready to take back their power through science (not BS).Time Stamps1:00 Introduction3:44 perimenopause lightning round7:45 understanding the research10:20 nutrition myths15:56 communicating the science to the public18:50 recommendations for women versus men24:30 opening up the menopause conversation28:21 fat loss in menopause33:57 the future of health advice on social media41:20 most common myths 43:55 bone health and density50:00 doing activity you enjoyCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH LAUREN:IG: https://www.instagram.com/drlaurencs1/Website: drlaurencs.comThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailTold to slow down during pregnancy & postpartum? Not necessarily! 🏃‍♀️💪"It's research update time again with @exerciseandpregnancy!In this episode, Margie Davenport, Associate Professor at the @ualberta & former national team athlete, joins us again to give another update on research in pregnancy and postpartum exercise including: the 🔹2025 Canadian guideline for physical activity, sedentary behaviour and sleep throughout the first year post partum (hot off the presses!)  🔹@bjsm_bmj Special Issue on Postpartum Physical Activity Dr. Davenport is leading the charge in making exercise guidelines more inclusive so women at ALL levels can move safely during pregnancy & beyond We get into:🔹 Why movement matters during pregnancy (yes, even for elite athletes!)🔹 The impact of mental health & anxiety on postpartum recovery🔹 How sleep can make or break your return to sport🔹 When to see a pelvic floor PT (hint: sooner than you think!)🔹 The biggest myths about pregnancy & exercise that need to go 👋Whether you're chasing a podium or just trying to stay active through pregnancy, this episode is a MUST-LISTEN. 🎧What’s the worst pregnancy/postpartum fitness advice you’ve ever gotten? Drop it below! ⬇️😅#PregnancyFitness #PostpartumAthlete #PelvicHealth #ReturnToRun #WomenInSport #MomRunner #PregnantAndStrong #PostpartumRecovery #PelvicFloorPT #StrongMoms #activemompodcast #paglianopodcast Time Stamps1:00 Introduction2:45 setting up the guidelines 5:49 the importance of early movement10:30 getting the new guidelines to OB/BYNs13:03 get active questionnaire for pregnancy19:55 gatekeeping of information25:14 variability in practice patterns27:08 the impact of sleep34:00 impact of exercise36:53 addressing diastasis recti42:25 elite athletes in postpartum 47:35 traveling to NepalCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH MARGIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/exerciseandpregnancy/Website: exerciseandpregnancy.caThe Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailComing in at #4 on our list of top podcasts for 2025 is my conversation with Dr. Susan Clinton.In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Susan Clinton—a clinician, educator, and coach with over 40 years of experience helping women move through complex health transitions with clarity and confidence. Susan brings deep insight into the connections between the gut, hormones, and nervous system, and how those intersections can impact women in midlife and beyond.We explore the nuances of perimenopause and menopause, from autoimmunity shifts to digestive challenges, and the power of small, sustainable changes. Whether you're a healthcare provider or navigating your own health journey, this conversation is packed with clinical pearls and practical takeaways.We talk about:-The link between birth trauma, gut health, and perimenopause-How autoimmunity and digestion shift during midlife-Practical strategies for managing bloating, constipation, and hydration-The benefits of vaginal estrogen and advocating for your own care-How small lifestyle changes can make a big impact on overall healthTime Stamps1:00 Introduction1:51 how the conversation is different for women 5:49 clinical presentations for thyroid issues13:39 struggling with constipation22:15 the importance of chewing your food28:33 different types of fiber36:22 stool consistency 43:10 making small changes for big impact49:15 understanding bloating57:59 good and bad stress58:51 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH SUSAN:IG: https://www.instagram.com/sclintonpt/Website: https://ltiphysio.com/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailComing in at #5 on our list of top podcasts for 2025 is my conversation with Lindsey Bomgren.What does fitness really look like for moms?It’s not matching sets and flawless form.It’s stopping mid-workout for a diaper change.It’s navigating diastasis, prolapse, leaking, exhaustion, and a brain that hasn’t slept in three years.It’s figuring out how to move in a body that’s been through pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause—without the judgment.In this episode, I sit down with Lindsey Bomgren (@nourishmovelove), certified trainer, mom of three, and absolute powerhouse in the online fitness space. Lindsey brings the real talk about motherhood and movement—and how to keep showing up with strength and compassion through every season.We dive into:💥 The rise of online fitness & what it means for moms💥 Diastasis recti, coning & doming explained (finally)💥 Why cueing matters more than most realize💥 The shifts through each pregnancy and postpartum recovery💥 How perimenopause is changing the conversation💥 And the quiet shame so many moms feel about their bodies—and how we push backIf you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, judged, or just not sure where to start—this one’s for you.👟 Real fitness isn’t one-size-fits-all.🎧 Hit play and let’s talk about what movement can actually look like for moms.⏱ Timestamps:00:00 Intro05:26 Building a business while raising kids10:09 Treating athletes in pregnancy & postpartum12:17 What moms actually want in fitness16:13 Why cueing matters27:26 Common myths and misinformation37:56 Postpartum body image44:00 Letting go of fear in movement48:30 Mental health & movement56:40 What’s next for perimenopause69:45 Rapid fire Q&A🔔 Subscribe for real talk on pelvic health, fitness, and the science behind how women move.CONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.com CONNECT WITH LINDSEYWebsite: https://www.nourishmovelove.com/YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/nourishmoveloveInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/nourishmovelove/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nourishmovelove/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ca/nourishmovelove/ The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)

Send us Fan MailIn this powerful season finale, I sit down with journalist and author Maggie Mertens (@maggiejmertens) to unpack the untold history—and future—of women in sport, running, and motherhood.Maggie is a Seattle-based writer whose work spans gender, athletics, and culture. Her book Better Faster Farther: How Running Changed Everything We Know About Women breaks down the myths that held women back for decades and highlights the stories that never made it into the headlines. After finishing her book, she returned to running at 37 and recently completed her first half marathon—proof that rewriting the narrative starts in our own lives, too.This episode dives deep into the real experiences of women who run, lift, train, and raise families while navigating outdated cultural beliefs about their bodies. From postpartum fitness to perimenopause realities, athletic identity shifts, and the mental health benefits of movement, Maggie brings clarity, honesty, and perspective we all need.We talk about: 🔹 Balancing motherhood and athletic identity 🔹 The biggest myths holding women in sport back 🔹 Why the victim mindset keeps women stuck—and how to shift it 🔹 Exercise, running, and mental health (especially in midlife) 🔹 Returning to fitness postpartum without the pressure or shameIf you’re a runner, athlete, postpartum or perimenopausal mom, or someone reclaiming your athletic identity, this is a must-listen conversation.Time Stamps1:00 Introduction5:15 how far back can we look?9:50 women who have been lost to history16:53 motherhood versus being an athlete19:42 race and the research24:09 women being treated as delicate29:50 societal pressures33:40 breaking barriers in the mile37:15 women’s marathon history40:57 coming back to running50:17 what’s next52:13 rapid fire questionsCONNECT WITH CARRIEIG: https://www.instagram.com/carriepagliano/Website: https://carriepagliano.comCONNECT WITH MAGGIE:IG: https://www.instagram.com/maggiejmertens/Website: https://maggiemertens.com/Substack: https://maggiemertens.substack.com/Book: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/maggie-mertens/better-faster-farther/9781643753355/The Active Mom Podcast is A Real Moms' Guide to pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause & beyond for active moms & the professionals who help them in their journey.  This show has been a long time in the making!   You can expect conversation with moms and professionals from all aspects of the industry.   If you're like me, you don't have a lot of free time (heck, you're probably listening at 1.5x speed), so theses interviews will be quick hits to get your the pertinent information FAST!  If you love what you hear, share the podcast with a friend and leave us a 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating and review. It helps us become more visible in the search algorithm! (Helps us get seen by more moms that need to hear these stories!!!!)