Golden Hour

The first weeks after birth are supposed to be tender, supported, and deeply cared for. But for far too many women—especially low-income, immigrant, and asylum-seeking mothers—postpartum becomes a period of isolation, fear, and survival.In this episode, Dr. O sits down with Rachel Scandling, Executive Director of 4th Trimester, a nonprofit transforming postpartum care for the families most often left behind. Based in Southern California and along the U.S.–Mexico border, 4th Trimester provides practical support, emotional care, and advocacy rooted in dignity and community.Together we talk about: • What postpartum care should look like • The realities facing moms navigating trauma, immigration, housing instability, or lack of healthcare access • How community-based support can prevent crises and save lives • Why “postpartum deserts” are a growing public-health problem • What every new parent deserves—but rarely receives • How clinicians, policymakers, and advocates can help rebuild postpartum systems • And what gives Rachel hope for the future of maternal healthWhether you’re a new mom, a clinician, a doula, or someone fighting to improve women’s health outcomes, this conversation is a powerful reminder that postpartum care is not a luxury—it’s a lifeline.Keywords: postpartum, 4th trimester, maternal health, postpartum depression, birth recovery, immigrant families, community care, postpartum support, women’s health, birth justice, perinatal mental health, postpartum resources, birth trauma, equitable healthcareAbout 4th Trimester | 4th Trimester believes the weeks and months after birth should be a time of deep care. They are a nonprofit organization changing how new mothers and birthing people experience the postpartum period. Many of their team has been through the trenches of postpartum themselves and know how isolating it can feel without enough support.Headquartered in Pasadena, and serving southern California and along the U.S./Mexico border, 4th Trimester serves those most often left behind by traditional systems, including low-income, immigrant, asylum-seeking, and disaster-impacted families. They provide practical support, emotional care, and advocacy that puts parents' needs first.Rachel Scandling, Executive Director Bio |Rachel brings nearly 20 years of leadership experience across LA’s public, academic, and nonprofit sectors. A hands-on leader and systems thinker, her career has spanned fundraising, programming, and management for organizations of all sizes, with a consistent focus on supporting women.Before joining 4th Trimester, Rachel led the graduate producing program at CalArts and served as Producing Director of its Center for New Performance. She’s a member of Loud Community, a woman-led network advancing community care, and did heThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

What do fibroids, fertility struggles, painful periods, IVF complications, and confusing hormone symptoms all have in common?They’re often dismissed, misunderstood, or minimized—leaving women to navigate life-altering symptoms without the answers or support they deserve.In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Cheruba Prabakar, a board-certified OBGYN and fellowship-trained minimally invasive surgeon specializing in fibroid surgery, fertility-sparing gynecologic care, and hormonal health. She’s also a nationally certified menopause practitioner and an educator who’s reshaping how we understand women’s health across the lifespan.Together, we get into:🌱 Fibroids & FertilityHow fibroids affect conception, miscarriage risk, and IVF successWhen to treat fibroids before trying to get pregnantWhat people get wrong about “watchful waiting”🩺 Hormones, Menopause & MisdiagnosisWhy so many women are told their symptoms are “normal”What progesterone, estrogen, and perimenopause symptoms really meanMyths about hormone therapy that urgently need debunking💛 The Bigger PictureHow racial and diagnostic inequities delay treatmentWhy women’s pain keeps getting dismissedWhat excellent, whole-person gynecologic care should actually look likeThis conversation brings clarity to conditions millions of women struggle with: uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, infertility, heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, perimenopause, and hormonal imbalance. It also offers the kind of practical, evidence-based insight that can change how women advocate for their bodies—no matter their age or stage.This episode gives you the language and the science women should’ve had all along.Dr. Cheruba Prabakar is a board-certified OBGYN and fellowship-trained minimally invasive surgeon dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care. With advanced expertise in fertility-sparing fibroid surgery and endometrial polyp removal, Dr. Prabakar offers cutting-edge solutions for gynecologic issues, particularly for women navigating IVF and hormonal challenges.Her practice, Lamorinda Gynecology and Surgery, reflects her mission to empower women at every stage of life—from menarche to menopause and beyond—through accessible, sustainable, and holistic care.A nationally certified menopause practitioner, Dr. Prabakar is passionate about educating women and debunking myths surrounding hormone therapy and women's health. She extends her impact globally by supporting educational initiatives for young girls in South India.As a dynamic speaker, Dr. Prabakar has been featured in media outlets such as Arise America and Essence magazine. She delivers engaging talks at webinars, conferences, and events, inspiring women to taThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Maternal mental health is the #1 complication of pregnancy and childbirth—yet the majority of women still don’t get the care they need.In this episode of Golden Hour, Dr. O sits down with Tina Keshani, co-founder and CEO of Seven Starling, to unpack the maternal mental health crisis—from postpartum depression and anxiety to the systemic barriers preventing women from accessing care.Together, they explore:Why 1 in 5 women experience perinatal mood and anxiety disordersWhy up to 75% never receive treatmentThe real reason OB-GYNs often can’t connect patients to careHow stigma, time constraints, and system gaps leave women unsupportedThe emotional reality of postpartum anxiety—including intrusive thoughts and sleep disruptionWhy maternal mental health is more than a diagnosis—it’s a full life transitionHow innovative care models (therapy, group support, medication) are changing outcomesTina also shares her personal journey through miscarriage, postpartum challenges, and building a company while becoming a mother—offering a rare, honest look at what it means to navigate both leadership and early motherhood.This conversation is essential for:Women navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or fertility challengesClinicians seeking better solutions for their patientsAnyone interested in the future of women’s healthIf you’ve ever felt like the system is failing mothers—you’re not wrong. But there are solutions.🎧 Listen now to learn why maternal mental health care must change—and how we get there.Tina Keshani is Co-founder and CEO of Seven Starling, a women's mental health company she has led for nearly six years with a mission to ensure every woman has access to specialized and affordable mental health care. Under her leadership, Seven Starling has developed a specialized clinical model to drive best-in-class outcomes for its patients, expanded its services across 16 states, and partnered with the country's largest health plans to make care more affordable. The company has treated thousands of patients to date, addressing the maternal mental health crisis that affects 1 in 5 new mothers.Tina holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BA in Economics from Denison University. She lives in the Washington D.C. area with her husband and children.#postpartummentalhealth #maternalmentalhealth #newmomlife #fourthtrimester #momtruths #womenshealth #obgyn #mentalhealthmatters #mom #momlife #mother #motherhood #motherhoodjourney #postpartum #postpartumjourneyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Many expecting parents spend months preparing for the baby — but far less time preparing for the birth itself.In this episode, Dr. O sit down with Brittany Pruneau, a birth educator who works closely with families preparing for labor and delivery, to talk about why so many people walk into birth feeling unprepared — and how education can change the entire experience.Brittany shares what she regularly sees when working with expecting parents: many arrive at the hospital without fully understanding the range of decisions that may come up during labor, the interventions that might be offered, or how quickly circumstances can change.We talk about why birth is not something you can simply “wing,” and why understanding your options ahead of time can make a significant difference in how people experience labor.Brittany also explains how expectations shape birth experiences. When someone believes there is only one “right” way for their baby to be born, any deviation from that expectation can feel overwhelming — even when both parent and baby are healthy. In many cases, it’s the gap between expectations and reality that leads people to feel disempowered or distressed about their birth experience.This conversation explores how preparation, information, and realistic expectations can help parents approach birth with greater confidence and clarity.In this episode we discuss:• Why many parents feel unprepared for labor and delivery • The role of birth education in decision-making during labor • How expectations influence birth experiences • Why flexibility and knowledge can reduce fear around birth • What expecting parents should understand before going into laborIf you’re expecting a baby — or supporting someone who is — this episode offers an honest look at why birth preparation matters.#birthprep #birtheducation #pregnancy #laboranddelivery #newparents #mom #momlife #motherhood #mother #pregnancyjourney #postpartum #postpartumjourneyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

In this episode of the Golden Hour, Dr. O sits down with Dr. Anna Glezer, a reproductive and integrative psychiatrist trained at Harvard and UCSF, where she continues to teach and mentor residents and fellows. She is the founder of Women’s Wellness Psychiatry, creator of the Fellowship in Reproductive & Integrative Psychiatry, and co-founder of the Bay Area Reproductive Mental Health Conference. Through her clinical work, teaching, and national leadership, she has helped shape how we understand women’s mental health across the reproductive lifespan.This conversation moves beyond isolated diagnoses and instead examines women’s mental health as a longitudinal experience — from preconception and pregnancy through postpartum and into perimenopause.We explore:The misconception that pregnancy is protective for mental healthWhy symptoms of postpartum depression and anxiety often begin during pregnancyThe role of shared decision-making when discussing SSRIs in pregnancyThe concept of matrescence as a profound identity and neurobiological transitionThe statistic that 1 in 5 women experience perinatal or postpartum depression — and why anxiety, OCD, and trauma are often underrecognizedWhy approximately 40% of birthing people describe birth as traumatic, even when nothing “medically went wrong”How loss of locus of control contributes to birth traumaWhy perimenopause can last 5–15 years and frequently manifests through mood swings, irritability, insomnia, and brain fogThe integrative approach to mental health in midlife, including hormone therapy, CBT, exercise, sleep, micronutrients, and lifestyle medicineAt its core, this episode reframes women’s health around one central principle:Mental health is health.From pregnancy through midlife, women deserve to feel informed, seen, and supported — not dismissed, minimized, or told to “grin and bear it.”If you work in women’s health, psychiatry, primary care, or are navigating these transitions yourself, this conversation offers both clinical depth and practical insight.#reproductivepsychiatry #womensmentalhealth #birthtrauma #perinatalmentalhealth #perimenopause #postpartum #postpartumdepression #postpartumanxiety #mom #momlife #pregnancy #motherhood #motherhoodjourney #postpartumjourneyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Postpartum care in America is failing women.In this powerful episode of The Golden Hour, Dr. O sits down with Boram Nam — entrepreneur, hospitality leader, and co-founder of Boram — to discuss why postpartum recovery is treated as optional in the U.S., while in Korea 84% of women receive structured postpartum support.Boram shares:Her personal experience with postpartum depression (that she didn’t recognize at the time)The guilt, rage, and exhaustion no one warned her aboutWhy the “supermom” narrative is harming womenHow Korea’s postpartum retreat model inspired her to build BoramWhat true postpartum support should look likeWhy parental leave and postpartum infrastructure are policy issuesTogether, they explore:Matrescence and identity shiftsThe invisible labor of new motherhoodWhy postpartum doulas and lactation consultants are undervaluedHow to build your village — even if you don’t have oneIf you are pregnant, postpartum, supporting someone who is, or simply care about women’s health equity — this conversation is essential.Postpartum isn’t six weeks. It’s a transformation.#postpartumcare #maternalhealth #postpartumdepression #fourthtrimester #workingmoms #parentalleave #womenshealthThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Menopause care is finally evolving — and this episode explains what every woman needs to know right now.In this conversation, Dr. O sits down with Dr. Kagan, board-certified OB-GYN, UCSF Clinical Professor, and nationally recognized expert in menopause, hormone therapy, bone health, sexual health, and cancer survivorship.We break down the recent FDA label change for menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), why vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats are more serious than we once believed, and how untreated symptoms are linked to cardiovascular disease and brain health.Dr. Kagan also explains the two newly approved non-hormonal treatments for hot flashes, including how neurokinin B receptor antagonists work by targeting the brain’s thermoregulatory system — a major shift in menopause treatment options.This episode covers:The truth about menopausal hormone therapy todayWhy hot flashes are not “just annoying”New FDA-approved non-hormonal treatmentsWho should (and shouldn’t) consider hormonesWhy menopause is still under-treatedHow women can advocate for better careWhether you’re approaching menopause, in the thick of it, or caring for women who are — this episode brings clarity, evidence, and empowerment to a stage of life that has been misunderstood for far too long.#HotFlashes #MenopauseCare #MidlifeHealth #MenopauseAwareness #WomenHealth #MidlifeMattersThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

What if postpartum isn’t something to “recover from” — but a profound identity transformation?In this episode of The Golden Hour, Dr. O sits down with Jessie Harrold, doula, coach, author of Mother Shift, and host of the Becoming Podcast, for a deeply honest conversation about matrescence, the fourth trimester, and why the transition to motherhood often takes years — not weeks.Together, they explore:Why postpartum is a developmental stage, not a pathologyThe difference between the fourth trimester and matrescenceWhy so many mothers feel “lost” after birthThe role of grief, body change, and identity shifts in early motherhoodHow lack of community and maternity leave impact maternal mental healthWhy “bouncing back” is the wrong goalThis episode is essential listening for:Mothers and birthing peopleWomen considering motherhoodOB-GYNs, midwives, doulas, and women’s health providersAnyone supporting someone through postpartum🎧 Listen, reflect, and share with someone who needs this reminder: You’re not broken — you’re becoming.TakeawaysMotherhood is a rite of passage that changes everything.Matrescence is a developmental process similar to adolescence.The transition to motherhood can take two to three years.Community support is essential for new mothers.Grief is a natural part of the motherhood journey.Body image changes significantly during and after pregnancy.It's important to honor and validate feelings about body changes.Societal pressures can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy in mothers.The healthcare system often fails to support the postpartum period adequately.Transformation in motherhood is messy but ultimately empowering.Keywords#motherhood #matrescence #postpartum #transformation, #identity #community #bodyimage #grief #ritesofpassage #supportThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

In this episode of The Golden Hour, Dr. O sits down with Abby Mercado, co-founder and CEO of Rescripted, the leading global media platform empowering women with science-backed health information.Abby shares her deeply personal journey through infertility, IVF, miscarriage, preeclampsia, and postpartum recovery — and how those experiences revealed just how broken women’s healthcare systems can be.Together, they explore:Why fertility care is so complex and inaccessibleHow misinformation dominates women’s health onlineThe dangers of relying on AI and social media for medical adviceWhy women weren’t included in medical research until 1993How Rescripted and its women’s-health-focused AI, Clara, are changing the futureThis conversation is honest, urgent, and hopeful — a reminder that women are turning pain into purpose and building a better system from the inside out.🎧 Listen now and join the movement redefining women’s health — from first period to last.Keywords#womenshealth #fertility #fertilityjourney #motherhood #mother #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #health #healthinformation #womenshealth #Rescripted, #misinformation #healthcareinnovation #personalstories #communitysupportTakeawaysThe internet can be a scary place for women's health information.Sharing personal stories helps normalize women's health experiences.Women often face misinformation about their health, especially online.Access to reliable health information is crucial for women.The healthcare system often lacks adequate support for women's unique health needs.Innovations in women's health are emerging to address these challenges.Community support is vital for women navigating health issues.Personal experiences can drive passion for change in healthcare.Education about women's health is still lacking in many areas.The future of women's health looks promising with new technologies and advocacy.Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

In this episode, Dr. O sits down with Venla Hakunti — entrepreneur, leadership coach, and Finnish Happiness Ambassador — for a deeply honest conversation about parenthood, postpartum support, and why having children feels fundamentally different in the U.S. compared to Europe.Venla shares her lived experience giving birth and raising children in Germany and Finland, where postpartum care, parental leave, and childcare are treated as societal responsibilities — not personal luxuries. Together, they unpack the emotional and financial realities of parenting in America, where many families are forced to ask a question rarely heard elsewhere: “Can we afford to have a child?”This conversation explores:Why parenthood in the U.S. often becomes a financial calculationWhat Europe gets right about postpartum care and parental leaveHow systemic support (or lack of it) shapes maternal mental healthThe “power of the pause” — and why time off after birth isn’t lost timeWhat true choice looks like when families are actually supportedVenla Hakunti is an entrepreneur and leadership trainer with a diverse background across multiple industries. She is the co-founder of several early-stage startups, a strengths coach, and a workshop facilitator currently leading major projects in AI education and facilitator training. Originally from a small village in northern Finland, Venla has lived in Spain and Germany and now resides in Helsinki with her partner and their two children.This episode is not about idealizing Europe — it’s about re-imagining what’s possible when we invest in parents, birthers, and families.🎧 Subscribe for more conversations on maternal health, identity, and systems that shape our lives.#MaternalHealth #PostpartumCare #PostpartumSupport #ParentalLeave #Motherhood #ParentingInAmerica #ParenthoodInEurope #USvsEurope #HealthcareSystems #FamilyPolicy #PostpartumMentalHealth #MaternalMentalHealth #WorkingMothers #WomenAndWork #ThePowerOfPause #WomensHealthPodcast #MaternalHealthPodcast #HealthcarePodcast #LeadershipAndMotherhood #WomenInMedicine #BecomingAMother #LifeAfterBirth #ParenthoodConversation #ModernMotherhood #GlobalParentingThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

What if everything you were taught about periods, birth control, and menopause was incomplete — or flat-out wrong?In this eye-opening episode, Dr. O sits down with Dr. Sophia Yen, one of the most influential voices in women’s health today. Dr. Yen is a Clinical Associate Professor at Stanford in Adolescent Medicine, an MIT and UCSF alum, and Founder/CEO of Pandia Health, the only doctor-founded birth control delivery company. She’s spent her career fighting for reproductive justice, better patient education, and healthcare that truly centers women.Together, Dr. O and Dr. Yen dive into:✨ #PeriodsOptional — why most women don’t need to bleed every month ✨ The real science behind hormonal birth control (and what reduces cancer risk) ✨ Perimenopause: symptoms, misconceptions, labs you shouldn’t order, and why women feel so confused ✨ FDA-approved uses of hormone therapy — and what emerging research is showing ✨ How to reduce UTIs, protect bone health, and support cognitive aging ✨ Why comprehensive sex ed and empowered contraceptive counseling matter more than ever ✨ Dr. Yen’s mission to reshape women’s health: access, accuracy, autonomyFrom high-yield education to myth-busting to the kind of clarity most women never get in a 15-minute clinical visit — this conversation is bold, evidence-based, and deeply empowering.If you’ve ever had a period, plan to stop having periods, are navigating perimenopause or menopause, or simply want to understand your body with more confidence — this episode is for you.Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

In this episode, I’m joined by Lisa Schultz, a Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach based in Los Angeles with nearly two decades of experience in the wellness industry. After a near-death experience in 2011 and years of surgeries and chronic pain, Lisa rebuilt her health through natural healing and lifestyle changes. She later served as the Wellness Director at a physical therapy clinic in Santa Monica and now brings her expertise to a wider audience through Verdura Method, her online nutrition course.In our conversation, Lisa shares an honest look at her journey through pregnancy, birth, and the emotional realities of postpartum. From shifting her mindset from “goals” to “intentions,” to the unexpected “nose dive” she experienced after birth, Lisa offers vulnerable insight into what the early months of motherhood can really feel like.We talk about matrescence, identity, the pressures placed on new moms, and why postpartum should be understood not as 6–12 weeks, but as a full-year transition. Lisa also opens up about the stigma around seeking help — and how that judgment can isolate women during one of the most demanding seasons of their lives.In this episode: ✨ Why “intentions” create healthier expectations for birth ✨ The emotional crash of early postpartum ✨ How identity shifts during matrescence ✨ Why asking for help is essential, not optional ✨ The truth about postpartum as a one-year transition ✨ What women really need to feel supportedLisa lives in Los Angeles with her husband and their two children.Listen in for a conversation that is honest, grounding, and so needed.#postpartum #matrescence #motherhood #birthstory #fourthtrimester #postpartumjourney #mom #momlife #motherhoodjourney #pregnancyjourney #pregnancyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Why is the United States — one of the wealthiest nations in the world — still facing rising rates of maternal and infant deaths? And why are Black mothers impacted the most?In this powerful and solutions-focused episode of Golden Hour, host Dr. O sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Cherot, a nationally recognized OB-GYN with over 20 years of experience in maternal and infant health. Dr. Cherot is the former President & CEO of March of Dimes, and now serves as President of Lucina, a leading maternal analytics company, as well as Chief Medical Officer at Unified Women’s Health.Together, we break down the biggest issues facing mothers and babies today — and what it will actually take to save lives.✨ If you care about maternal health, reproductive justice, or the future of birth in America, this is a must-listen episode.🔍 We cover:Why Black maternal mortality remains unacceptably highThe preventable causes behind most pregnancy-related deathsHow midwives and doulas can close massive gaps in careWhy the U.S. is facing a dangerous OB-GYN shortageThe role of data and analytics in predicting and preventing complicationsWhat better prenatal and postpartum care could look like — todayPolicy changes and structural reforms that would actually move the needle👩‍⚕️ About Dr. Elizabeth Cherot:Dr. Cherot is a board-certified OB-GYN and national advocate for maternal and infant health. She earned her MD from the University of Rochester and her Executive MBA from Johns Hopkins. She has dedicated her career to improving outcomes across the full journey of pregnancy, birth, and beyond.#maternalhealth #maternalmortality #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #pregnancycare #infant #obstetrics #obgyn #midwife #midwifery #doula #reproductivehealth #highriskpregnancy #prenatalcare #postpartumcare #childbirthpreparation #childbirthstory #preeclampsia #maternalmortality #healthcaredisparities #publichealth #podcast #healthpolicy #ushealthcare #ushealth #patientadvocacy Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

What happens when the doctor becomes the patient?In this intimate and powerful conversation, Dr. Meron Haile—a board-certified ophthalmologist, new mom, and lifelong San Franciscan—shares her deeply personal journey through endometriosis, IVF, type 1 diabetes, and a high-risk pregnancy that tested every part of her resilience.Dr. Haile opens up about navigating the medical system from the other side, balancing the demands of medicine with the emotional toll of infertility and postpartum recovery, and redefining what it means to be both a doctor and a mother.We talk about:Living with endometriosis and pursuing IVFManaging a high-risk pregnancy with type 1 diabetesThe emotional aftermath of a complicated deliveryThe identity shift of early motherhood while practicing medicineThis is an honest and deeply human look at what happens when expertise meets vulnerability—and how strength can coexist with struggle.#MaternalHealth #IVFJourney #Endometriosis #WomenInMedicine #Type1Diabetes #FertilityStory #Motherhood #WorkingMom #PhysicianMomsThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

In the Season 2 premiere of the Golden Hour, Dr. O sits down with OB-GYN and friend Dr. Nazaneen Homaifar to unpack her powerful birth stories — from a high-risk twin pregnancy to an unexpected, triumphant VBAC. Together, they explore what it really means to hold hope and flexibility in birth, rebuild trust between patients and providers, and navigate the emotional spectrum of postpartum recovery.This conversation is about advocacy, healing, and the many ways women find strength in uncertainty — in medicine, motherhood, and beyond.Dr. Nazaneen Homaifar, a board-certified OB-GYN originally from North Carolina, now practicing in the D.C. area. She completed her medical degree at Duke University and her OB-GYN residency at the University of California, San Francisco, where she also served on faculty for nearly four years before moving back east. She’s the System Division Head of Routine Obstetrics at Inova Health System.. Nazaneen also holds an MBA from Harvard—so yes, she’s equally fluent in pelvic exams and pivot tables. She’s passionate about health equity, digital innovation in women’s health, and empowering patients through better education. When she’s not catching babies, operating, or leading systemwide initiatives, she’s home with her husband, twin daughters, and brand-new baby boy. #podcast #postpartum #mom #motherhood #momlife #mother #motherhoodjourney #postpartumjourney #obgyn #vbac #twinpregnancy #obgyn #doctorThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

We’re closing out Season One of Golden Hour with a guest who embodies everything this show is about: thoughtful conversation, creativity, advocacy, and care.In our season finale, I’m joined by Taylor McKay Smith — a Canadian model, photographer, doula, and women’s health advocate — whose work invites us to reimagine how we see and support mothers. From international fashion runways to birth rooms and photography studios, Taylor has spent her life capturing the beauty, complexity, and contradictions of motherhood.In this episode, we explore: – The identity shifts of matrescence – What it means to feel truly seen as a mother – Using creativity as a path to healing – Why community care is essential postpartumAs we wrap this first season, I’m incredibly proud to share this conversation — one that captures the heart and purpose of Golden Hour.💛 Thank you for listening, sharing, and growing with me this season. Here’s to more light, more truth, and more stories in Season Two.#podcast #mom #momlife #motherhood #motherhoodjourney #mother #postpartum #postpartumjourney #postpartumrecovery #postpartumbody #womenshealth Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

You’ve heard about it—but how much do you really know about your pelvic floor?This week on The Golden Hour, I’m joined by Dr. Sara Reardon—board-certified pelvic floor physical therapist, founder of The V-Hive, and widely known as The Vagina Whisperer. With over 700,000 followers across Instagram and TikTok, Sara has made it her mission to educate and empower people to care for their pelvic health at every age and stage.Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or just learning about your body, this episode is for you. We cover everything from pelvic floor dysfunction, painful sex, and incontinence to the societal shame that keeps so many from seeking help.Dr. Reardon’s new book, FLOORED, launched on June 10, 2025—and it’s poised to change the way we think about pelvic health. Don’t miss this candid, insightful conversation that every body needs to hear.🎧 Listen, share, and subscribe for more honest conversations about what your body’s really going through.#podcast #pelvicfloor #pelvicfloorhealth #postpartum #postpartumjourney #postpartumrecovery #postpartumbody #womenshealth #mom #momlife #motherhood #motherhoodjourney #motherThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

What happens when the moment that’s supposed to be one of life’s most joyful turns into one of the most traumatic?In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Kayleigh Summers — licensed therapist, writer, and one of today’s most important voices in the conversation around birth trauma. After surviving a rare and nearly fatal Amniotic Fluid Embolism, Kayleigh turned her experience into purpose: helping others process, heal, and feel less alone through her therapy practice, podcast, and deeply honest social media storytelling.We talk about:What birth trauma really looks like — and why it’s more common than we thinkThe emotional aftermath survivors face, even after “healthy” outcomesHow partners and providers can better support people recovering from traumatic birthThe power of sharing stories and normalizing mental health care in the perinatal periodWhether you’ve personally experienced trauma or want to better understand how to support others who have, this episode will stay with you.🎧 Listen now and share with someone who needs to hear this.#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #obgyn #momlife #motherhood #motherhoodjourney #traumainformedcare #birthtraumaThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

What happens when a journalist dives deep into the world of egg freezing? In this episode, I sit down with award-winning writer and author Natalie Lampert, whose new book The Big Freeze (Random House, 2024) takes readers inside the booming egg freezing industry with unprecedented insight.Natalie shares her personal thought process around egg freezing, what she discovered in years of reporting on fertility tech, and how the industry often markets hope while sidestepping harder truths. We unpack the emotional, medical, and financial pressures facing women today, and explore how fertility decisions intersect with autonomy, privilege, and systemic gaps in care.Natalie’s work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, and more. She’s also a TEDx speaker, Fulbright scholar, and deeply thoughtful storyteller. Whether you're considering egg freezing or simply navigating your own reproductive timeline, this episode offers clarity, nuance, and perspective.#podcast #fertility #fertilityjourney #eggfreezing #fertilitymyths #mom #mother #obgyn #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #femtech #reproductivehealth #womenshealth #reproductivejusticeThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Infertility is deeply personal—and often deeply misunderstood. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Brian Levine, board-certified reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist, founding partner of CCRM New York, and founder of Nodal, a healthcare startup revolutionizing gestational surrogacy in America.Dr. Levine has spent his career helping families grow. Now, through Nodal, he’s tackling the complex, often inaccessible surrogacy system—aiming to make the journey more transparent, equitable, and supportive for surrogates and intended parents alike.Together, we dive into:The emotional and logistical realities of infertilityWhy the surrogacy system in the U.S. is “broken”—and what needs to changeHow Dr. Levine hopes to create safer, more empowering experiences for all parties involvedWhether you’re navigating fertility yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply curious about the future of family-building, this conversation is a powerful listen.#GestationalCarrier #Surrogacy #InfertilityAwareness #GoldenHourPodcast #FamilyBuilding #ReproductiveHealth #WomensHealth #Parenthood #Fertility #FertilityTreatment #FertilityJourneyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Is “sleeping like a baby” a myth? Let’s talk about it.In this episode of Golden Hour, we’re diving into the sleep struggles that every parent faces—but rarely talks about—with Certified Gentle Sleep Coach Tracie Kesatie. With over a decade of experience, plus advanced degrees in psychology and counseling, Tracie brings a compassionate, evidence-based approach to helping families get the rest they desperately need.We talk sleep regressions, nighttime routines, parental guilt, and why “cry it out” isn’t your only option. If you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, or just desperate for a nap—this one’s for you.#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #obgyn #sleeptraining #gentlesleepcoach #newborncare #momlife #motherhood #parentingadviceThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Pregnancy and infant loss are some of the most profound—and too often, silenced—experiences in parenthood. In this deeply moving episode of Golden Hour, I’m joined by Eileen Santos Rosete: postpartum doula, grief educator, trauma-informed yoga teacher, and author of the powerful new book To Tend and To Hold.Eileen shares how her work is sparking a cultural shift in how we acknowledge and support those grieving after loss. We explore what true, holistic postpartum care looks like—including for those who have experienced miscarriage or infant loss—and how we can better honor the emotional and physical needs of every birthing person.This conversation is for anyone who has loved, lost, or longed to better support someone through the unspoken parts of parenthood.#GoldenHourPodcast #PregnancyLossAwareness #PostpartumSupport #OurSacredWomen #GriefHealing #MaternalHealth #PodcastThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Why is postpartum care still an afterthought in American healthcare?The U.S. has one of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations—and much of that comes down to how we neglect postpartum health.In this episode of Golden Hour, I speak with Meghan Doyle, CEO and co-founder of Partum Health, a maternal and family care startup based in Chicago that’s redefining what postpartum support should look like.Born from both personal experience and years of strategic healthcare consulting at Boston Consulting Group, Meghan founded Partum to close the dangerous and persistent gaps in care that so many families face after childbirth.We talk postpartum policy, startup innovation, and what it will really take to build a system that supports parents from day one.Meghan Doyle received her MBA from Wharton at the University of Pennsylvania and her BA from UNC-Chapel Hill. She lives in her home city of Chicago with her husband and two fantastic kids. #podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #motherhood #momlife #postpartumjourney #motherhoodjourney #postpartumrevolutionThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

There’s no one “right” way to parent—just the way that works best for you. Few understand this better than postpartum doula, baby sleep coach, and parenting expert Devon Clement. As the founder and CEO of Happy Family After, she’s spent 25 years guiding hundreds of families through the raw, messy, and beautiful postpartum journey.In this episode of Golden Hour, Devon shares her wisdom on everything from the realities of sleep training to the overlooked importance of parental self-care—offering practical, judgment-free advice for new parents navigating this transformative stage of life.Devon Clement is the founder and CEO of the million-dollar agency, Happy Family After, which provides in-home services to parents in the northeast including: New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. Devon has a degree in Infant and Childhood Development and hosts a weekly podcast called Parenthood Prep that equips parents with the tools and strategies they need to care for their children and find peace of mind and confidence in their new role.#podcast #postpartum #postpartumadvice #postpartumjourney #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #pregnancyadvice #parenthood #parentingadvice Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Breastfeeding is a natural and powerful connection between mom and baby—yet modern pressures, from “pump culture” to social media, have set unrealistic expectations around milk supply. Add to that outdated advice on common challenges like nipple pain and the over-diagnosis of tongue-tie, and it’s no wonder so many moms feel overwhelmed.Enter Dr. Rachel Yang, a board-certified breast surgeon and lactation specialist, who joins me on Golden Hour to debunk breastfeeding myths and offer expert guidance. Together, we’ll break down the most common struggles and, more importantly, empower moms to navigate one of the most rewarding (and demanding) parts of motherhood.Dr. Rachel Yang attended Wellesley College and the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. She completed an internship and residency in general surgery at Stanford University. She completed a breast surgical oncology fellowship at the University of California San Francisco. She is a certified lactation counselor and international board certified lactation consultant. She currently works at Marin Health as a breast surgical oncologist and breastfeeding medicine physician. She lives in Berkeley with her husband and two children. #podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #motherhoodjourney #breastfeeding #lactation #breastfeedingtips #pregnant #pregnancy #pregnancyjourneyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

After eight grueling IVF cycles and multiple heartbreaking losses, Abbe Feder transformed her frustration with the fertility process into a mission to help others. As the founder of InCircle Fertility, she provides invaluable support to individuals and couples navigating the complexities of infertility—bridging the gap between clinics, doctors, therapists, and patients with a unique, empathetic approach.With a background in Behavioral Science and certification as a Life Coach, Abbe brings both expertise and personal experience to the table. She’s also the host of Women’s Wellness with Abbe Feder, where she dives deep into fertility, wellness, and self-empowerment.Outside of her work, Abbe is a devoted mahjong and card player, an escape room enthusiast, and—along with her filmmaker husband, Isaac Feder—a proud parent to their miracle twins.This episode is one you won’t want to miss! Tune in for wisdom, warmth, and real talk on fertility, resilience, and finding hope through the journey. 🎙️✨#podcast #fertility #fertilityjourney #fertilitysuccessstories #fertilitysuccess #pregnancyjourney #mom #momlife #mother #motherhood #pregnant #pregnancy #postpartum #postpartumjourney Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

There are many reasons a couple might turn to surrogacy—whether due to medical conditions, fertility challenges, or same-sex parenthood, every journey is unique and deeply personal.No journey is as heartwarming as Emma’s. From an early childhood diagnosis to the trials of an unsuccessful surrogacy in New Zealand to an epic twist that led to a successful surrogacy in the U.S., Emma’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the kindness of strangers.As the host of SurroTales, a podcast dedicated to surrogacy advocacy for intended parents and gestational carriers, and highlighting the legal landscape of surrogacy, Emma is passionate about shedding light on this beautiful, complex path to parenthood.Join us for an episode that will open your heart, expand your perspective, and leave you in awe of the power of surrogacy.Emma Lehman is originally from St. Louis, Missouri and studied marketing at the College of Charleston in Charleston, South Carolina. After graduating, she moved to San Francisco, where she met her husband, Travis, a California native who had moved to New Zealand with his family when he was young. Emma and Travis moved back to Auckland in 2019 and haven’t left since! By day, Emma works in Product Marketing for a health and wellness tech company. On the side, she runs SurroTales, a podcast that offers a platform for intended parents and surrogates worldwide to share their surrogacy journeys and insights. After a long surrogacy journey of their own, Emma and Travis are thrilled to be welcoming a baby girl into the world this February! #podcast #mom #momlife #mother #motherhood #pregnant #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #postpartum #postpartumjourney #surrogacy #surrogacyjourney #fertility #fertilityjourneyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Pregnancy and childbirth are transformative experiences, and your body undergoes many changes—none more important than the support of your pelvic floor. In this episode, we dive deep into everything you need to know about preparing and protecting this crucial muscle group throughout pregnancy, as well as expert tips on minimizing tearing during delivery.Joining us is Dr. Eileen Johnson, a leading pelvic floor physical therapy specialist, who shares her extensive knowledge and practical advice to keep your pelvic floor strong and healthy. With a doctorate in pelvic floor physiotherapy, Dr. Johnson is a trusted expert in helping women feel physically empowered—from conception through the postpartum journey.Tune in for an insightful conversation that will help you understand your body better and take charge of your physical well-being during this transformative time!Eileen Johnson is a Toronto, Ontario Canada native, transplanted to FL and then the Los Angeles area.  She attended the University of FL for her undergraduate degree and later completed her Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL.  She has been a pelvic health specialist for the past 14 years and is currently working at the University of Southern California as an assistant professor of clinical physical therapy and the Women’s Health Physical Therapy Residency Director.  Outside of work, she enjoys spending time cooking Filipino food for her family, tending to her garden with her husband, baking with her daughters (5 and 7), reffing at their soccer games and cheering them on at dance.#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #motherhoodjourney #pregnant #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #postpartumjourney #pregnancyadvice #postpartumadvice #pelvicfloorhealth #pelvicfloorexercises #pelvicphysicaltherapyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

From heartwarming labor stories to triumphant birth victories—and even the harrowing experience of a newborn overcoming a life-threatening respiratory illness—children’s book author Caroline Kusin Pritchard masterfully weaves the highs and lows of motherhood into unforgettable narratives.But her story goes beyond motherhood. Caroline shares the beauty of blending two rich cultures—honoring her Jewish roots while celebrating her husband’s Samoan heritage—creating a multicultural family filled with love, tradition, and meaning.This episode is packed with wisdom, resilience, and stories that will resonate with everyone. Don’t miss it!#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #motherhoodjourney #pregnant #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #postpartumjourney #pregnancyadvice #postpartumadviceThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Pregnancy and birth can be unpredictable, and no one understands this better than Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist Dr. Arianna Cassidy. In this episode of the Golden Hour Podcast, we dive into the complexities of high-risk pregnancies, the emotional toll of unexpected complications, and the power of compassionate, patient-centered care.Dr. Cassidy shares her expertise on what it means to truly honor a patient’s experience, how to navigate difficult medical decisions, and the importance of creating space for healing after a traumatic birth experience. Whether you’re an expectant parent, a healthcare professional, or simply interested in the realities of maternal health, this episode is a must-listen.Tune in now for an insightful and deeply human conversation.Dr. Arianna Cassidy was born and raised in Berkeley, CA. She studied Classics at Brown, then lived a few different lives before returning to the Bay Area for her medical training. She completed medical school, OB/GYN residency, and fellowship at UCSF. She now works as a Maternal Fetal Medicine physician at UCSF and co-director of the Placenta Accreta Program. She lives in Oakland with her husband and two young sons. #podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #motherhoodjourney #pregnant #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #postpartumjourney #pregnancyadvice #postpartumadviceThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

This week on the Golden Hour Podcast, we’re joined by the incredible Dr. Joyce Park, a board-certified dermatologist, founder of Skin Refinery—a cutting-edge teledermatology clinic—and the force behind Tea With MD, where she educates over 900,000 followers across TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. As a sought-after skincare expert, she’s been featured in The New York Times, Vogue, Forbes, Good Morning America, Allure, and more. Dr. Park has become a trusted voice in the skincare community, sharing science-based advice with her global audience. In this episode, she takes a break from her busy schedule to share her inspiring journey from dermatologist to viral sensation, while balancing her passion for dermatology with motherhood and family life. Tune in for an insightful conversation that blends passion, dedication, and the realities of life as a busy professional. Don’t miss out on this inspiring episode!Dr. Joyce Park attended college and medical school at Stanford University, and completed her dermatology residency at NYU. She has a background in medical journalism, having worked at NBC News and ABC News in their medical units. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring the beautiful Pacific Northwest with her husband, son, and daughter, taking dance classes, and trying new skincare trends and products. #podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #motherhoodjourney #pregnant #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #postpartumjourney #pregnancyadvice #postpartumadviceThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Starting a family is an exciting journey—but for same-sex couples, it can come with unique challenges and important considerations. On this episode of the Golden Hour podcast, I sit down with my dear friend Dr. Sarah Isquick to explore the family planning process for LGBTQ+ couples. As both a physician and a parent, Dr. Isquick shares her personal experience and professional expertise to help navigate the medical, legal, and emotional aspects of this journey. Join us for a deeply thought-provoking conversation.Dr. Sarah Isquick grew up in Ohio and earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Michigan. She went on to attend medical school at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, followed by an obstetrics and gynecology residency at UCSF. She has been practicing obstetrics and gynecology in the Bay area for the past decade, and she is passionate about caring for and supporting women through all stages of life, with a special interest in family planning and menopause care. She currently splits her clinical time at two sites—as the gynecologist-in-residence at a private clinic in San Francisco and as an OB hospitalist and medical director of the Valley Homeless Health Hope OB/GYN clinic at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center. She lives in San Francisco with her wife and son. #podcast #familyplanning #LGBTQfamilyplanning #fertility #fertilityjourney #pregnancy #postpartum #mom #momlife #mother #motherhoodEPISODE RESOURCES:https://www.fertilityiq.comhttps://familyequality.org/family-building/lgbtq-family-building-directory/https://familyequality.org/resources/lhttps://connectingrainbows.org/financial-resources-2/Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Fertility can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be.This week on the Golden Hour podcast, I sat down with my friend and colleague Dr. Eduardo Hariton, a double board-certified expert in Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility. With his compassionate approach and invaluable expertise, Dr. Hariton demystifies the fertility journey—from understanding when to seek help to exploring personalized testing and treatment options that work for you.We also dive into the exciting future of fertility care, offering not just information but empowerment for anyone on this path.Tune in for an educational, hopeful, and inspiring conversation about your fertility and the advancements transforming this field 💛.Dr. Eduardo Hariton received his medical training at Harvard, where he completed a combined MD/MBA at Harvard Medical School and Harvard Business School and his Ob/Gyn residency at the Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital. He completed his fellowship in reproductive endocrinology and infertility at the University of California, San Francisco. He is currently a practicing physician at the Reproductive Science Center of the Bay Area in California. He also serves as the VP of Strategic Initiatives at US Fertility and the Managing Director of the USF Innovation Fund. Dr. Hariton combines his clinical and business backgrounds to treat patients and think creatively about how to improve the care they receive when seeking fertility services. He and his wife have three kids who give his work as a fertility doctor all the meaning in the world! #mom #momlife #motherhood #mother #pregnancy #postpartum #pregnancyjourney #fertility #fertilityjourney #infertility #infertilityjourney #rei #obgynThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Every pregnancy tells a unique story, and certified nurse midwife Alyse Nikolao knows this better than anyone.In this heartfelt episode of the Golden Hour podcast, I’m joined by Alyse, a dear friend and practicing midwife, as she shares her incredible experiences—from her own long and challenging first delivery to the profound journey of being a gestational carrier for surrogacy. Alyse doesn’t just recount her personal pregnancy and postpartum stories; she also offers valuable insights on how to support others through these transformative experiences, drawing from her deep expertise as a midwife. This is more than a conversation—it’s a celebration of compassion and purpose in the journey of motherhood.  Tune in for a deeply moving and inspiring episode.Alyse studied English literature and language at USC. She then completed her masters in nursing with dual focus on midwifery and family practice at Vanderbilt. She is now working as a midwife at a large hospital-based practice in the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her wonderful husband, their four kids, and newest addition to the family – a bernedoodle puppy.#podcast #postpartum #pregnancy #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney #pregnancyjourney #pregnancyadvice #midwife #midwiferyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Becoming a mother doesn’t just bring new life—it transforms you. This incredible transition, called “matrescence,” is the journey from who you were before birth to the person you become as a mother.But with transformation comes with emotional challenges and moments of self-discovery. Therapist Molly Nourmand, LMFT, and Clinical Director of Life After Birth®, joins us on the Golden Hour podcast to share powerful insights  and heartfelt advice to help navigate this transformative journey with grace and resilience. Tune in for a conversation that empowers and uplifts as we explore the beauty and complexities of becoming a mother.Molly grew up in a small town in Michigan on Lake Erie, but she has  lived in Los Angeles for the past 20 years. She received a Master of Arts degree in Counseling Psychology with an emphasis in Depth Psychology from Pacifica Graduate Institute. Additionally, she has training in Somatic Experiencing and she specializes in Reproductive and Perinatal Psychotherapy. Molly is the Founder + Clinical Director of Life After Birth®, which is a team of Psychotherapists who provide 1:1, couples and group therapy from pre-conception through parenthood. She lives with her husband, seven-year-old daughter and their cat. #podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #postpartumjourney #pregnancy #pregnancyjourney #pregnancyadvice #motherhood #postpartumdepression #postpartumanxiety #mentalhealthThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Motherhood and parenthood are a rollercoaster of emotions, filled with highs and lows. This week on the Golden Hour, we’re joined by Dawoon Kang, co-founder and Chief Dating Officer of Coffee Meets Bagel, as she opens up about her journey through a complicated labor and postpartum anxiety. Now thriving on the other side, Dawoon shares her story and offers powerful insights to help other mothers navigate their own challenges and find strength in the storm. Dawoon Kang is originally from Korea and immigrated to the US when she was 13 with her two sisters. In 2012, Dawoon and her sisters started a company called Coffee Meets Bagel (CMB), a dating app for singles looking for a serious relationship. She was running the company remotely from Hawaii as the founder & Chief Dating Officer at the time she got pregnant and gave birth to her daughter. She has since then moved to Ericeira, Portugal, and currently lives there with her husband and three year-old daughter. In her free time, Dawoon enjoys learning about relationships, spirituality, parenting, and personal development.#motherhood #motherhoodjourney #pregnancy #postpartum #mother #mom #momlife #postpartumanxiety #postpartumjourneyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Breastfeeding can be a beautiful way to connect with your newborn—but it’s not always easy. For many moms, it comes with its own set of challenges, stress, and questions.This week on the Golden Hour podcast, we sit down with Sarah Peck, an International Board-Certified Lactation Consultant, to discuss the realities of breastfeeding. From exclusive tips to navigating the pressures of “breast is best,” Sarah offers practical advice and compassionate insights for every mom’s journey.Sarah Peck is a Registered Nurse and Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). She obtained her RN and Masters in Science of Nursing degrees at University of Illinois Chicago and her lactation education and credentials at University of California San Diego. She now runs her own business, Nesting Lactation, out of Los Angeles where she helps new parents with newborn care and infant feeding. She lives in LA with her husband and her daughter.Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Motherhood rarely goes according to plan, and Nyssa’s birth stories are a testament to that. In this episode, we explore her journey through an unplanned cesarean and a challenging attempt at a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). With honesty and grace, Nyssa reflects on how these experiences taught her profound lessons in humility, patience, and embracing the unexpected. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about resilience, growth, and the unpredictable beauty of motherhood.Nyssa Noyola grew up in the small beach town of Magnolia, Massachusetts. She went to boarding school in Massachusetts. Then attended University of Pennsylvania for undergrad and business school at Harvard Business School. She now works for Ascendis Pharma, a Danish biotech focused in endocrinology rare diseases. She is married to the love of her life, and they are busy raising their 4.5 year old daughter 2.5 year old son. Most importantly, her favorite ice cream flavor is Oreo.Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

In the United States, 1 in 10 babies are born preterm—a reality that touches countless families. While high-risk pregnancies face unique challenges, the advancements in care designed to support them can improve outcomes for every mother and baby 🌟.This week on The Golden Hour, high-risk OB specialist Dr. Martha Tesfalul joins us to explore how we can all access the comprehensive, compassionate pregnancy care every family deserves 💛✨. Tune in for an eye-opening and empowering conversation. Dr. Martha Tesfalul is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) within the UCSF Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences who cares for patients both within UCSF Health and in the Alameda Health System. She received her BA in Sociology with a minor in Health Policy from Harvard University and her MD with a concentration in Public Health and Service from Johns Hopkins School of Medicine. Martha completed her OB-GYN residency and MFM fellowship at UCSF, and during the latter she also undertook the UCSF Preterm Birth Initiative (PTBi) Transdisciplinary Research Fellowship. While she grew up in Houston, TX, she credits her deep roots in Eritrea, the country from which both her parents immigrated, for shaping her upbringing and identity.Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Motherhood is a profound journey of selflessness and sacrifice. In this episode of the Golden Hour, corporate attorney Alana Walker shares her deeply personal story of overcoming postpartum anxiety and finding her way back to a renewed sense of self. Her journey is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of embracing life's challenges.Alana is a corporate lawyer for Waymo (formerly Google's Self Driving Car Project). She lives in San Francisco, with her husband, and their bright-eyed and rambunctious 2.5 year old daughter. Originally, from Long Island, New York, Alana earned her undergraduate and master's degrees from Stanford University and a Law degree from Columbia. Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

In last week’s episode of The Golden Hour, we delved into newborn feeding essentials. This week, we’re shifting the spotlight to you! Join us as we chat with Irene Liu, co-founder and CEO of Chiyo (https://wearechiyo.com/), a meal delivery service dedicated to supporting moms through every stage—fertility, pregnancy, and postpartum.  Together, we’ll explore how nourishing your body can empower your journey from preconception to motherhood. Whether you're trying to conceive, nurturing a growing bump, or navigating postpartum recovery, this episode is packed with insights to help you thrive. Irene Liu was born and raised in Southern California to Taiwanese parents, Irene is on a mission to reintroduce the importance of nourishing the mother. Initially working at Airbnb and Bain & Co., it was her work for a food access non-profit on the South Side of Chicago and research at Harvard University on supermarket nutrition and systemic issues driving obesity that led her to the food space. Now, she is committed to bringing back-to-life old recipes and customs that help with fertility to postpartum nourishment through Eastern food therapy. Irene holds a bachelor of science in business administration from the University of California Berkeley, a master's degree in public policy from the Harvard Kennedy School, and an MBA from the Wharton School University of Pennsylvania. She lives in New York City with her husband. Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

There is no right or wrong way to feed your baby. On this episode of the Golden Hour, Certified Nurse Midwife Kassie Donnels enlightens us with her best tips and tricks for breastfeeding, while creating space for self-love during the inevitably stressful months of postpartum. Kassandra, Kassie, Donnels is originally from Sacramento, CA. She attended the University of Pennsylvania for her undergraduate degree, where she studied nursing science. After graduation, she worked as a gynecologic oncology, gynecologic surgery, and high risk obstetric nurse in Philadelphia. After a couple of years of nursing, she returned to UPenn for graduate school where she studied nurse midwifery and women’s health. After graduating from midwifery school, she returned to her home state of California and has been practicing as a nurse midwife for 4.5 years. She now resides in San Francisco with her husband, dog, and two cats. She is also pregnant with her first baby!Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

This week on the Golden Hour podcast we return to another tale of motherhood through the lens of Shruti Challa. Like many of us, Shruti has skillfully channeled her Type-A energy to reinforce her priorities not only in pregnancy, but most importantly postpartum. In this episode Shruti gives us a thoughtful glimpse into the privilege and power of agency. Shruti grew up in Kansas before moving out to California for her undergraduate at Stanford University. She has been a technology operator for the past 15 years. She has been part of two exits to Groupon and Booking.com and most recently was the CRO at Sonder which went public a couple of years ago. She lives in Piedmont, CA with her son and her husband. Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

This week on the Golden Hour we continue a deeper dive into midwifery care. In this episode we speak with Certified Nurse Midwife Martina Chwascinska-Szarek and learn about the history of midwifery care and how its origin is foundational to reinforcing empowered, dignified births.  Martina is a Certified Nurse Midwife based in Berkeley, California. She completed her nurse midwifery and women’s health nurse practitioner training at UCSF in 2016, with a focus on global health, and has been working as a full scope nurse-midwife in Northern California since then. Prior to becoming a midwife, Martina worked as a rape crisis counselor and domestic violence counselor, which informs her work as a midwife as well as her dedication to trauma informed care and reproductive justice.Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

This week on the Golden Hour we interviewed Stephanie Sherwood, mother of two. Stephanie intentionally sought out an unmedicated hospital birth for her first daughter, and a home birth with her second daughter. She reminds us that you can find beauty in birth when you empower yourself with the knowledge you need to choose the birth environment that is right for you. Stephanie is a former attorney, and currently a stay at home mom. She grew up in Sacramento California, and attended Stanford University for both undergrad and law school. She currently lives in Brooklyn, NY with her husband and two beautiful daughters.Learn more from the episode:⁠Ina May Guide to Childbirth⁠⁠Expecting Better by Emily Oster⁠⁠Evidence Based Birth⁠⁠The Birth Hour (podcast)⁠⁠Natural Hospital Birth⁠⁠Mindful Birthing⁠Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

This week on the Golden Hour podcast we are joined by Midi Feng. In this episode Midi candidly opens up about the trials and tribulations of motherhood and finding her true sense of happiness despite societal pressures. Midi grew up in Taipei, and spent her teenage years in an exchange school in the US. After graduating from Drexel with a degree in Finance and Accounting, she started her career in Taipei at Ernst & Young. She then made the move to San Francisco in 2012, and spent six years working at major accounting firms, including PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC) and Deloitte. She took a short break during COVID to have her first child, before joining Pilot.com as Customer Success Manager. Midi is married with two children. Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

This week on the Golden Hour Podcast we discuss a topic that is nearest and dearest to my heart, black maternal health, and we are graced by hosting Dr. Katie Brown to passionately talk us through this important topic. Dr. Brown is originally from Cambridge, MA. She went to undergrad at University of  Pennsylvania and medical school at Columbia. She completed her OBGYN residency and fellowship in Complex Family Planning at UCSF. Dr. Brown is a passionate advocate for reproductive health, choice, and justice. Her research focuses on exploring and improving the reproductive health experiences of Black women. She lives in San Francisco with her husband and son.Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

This week my esteemed guest is Danielle Garcia. Danielle is a graduate of Harvard University and Stanford Business School. She is originally from the Phillippines and by way of Vancouver Canada she made her way back to the Bay Area where she now lives with her husband and their 4-year old and 3-year old sons. Her accolades include being the co-founder and CEO  Yescredit.com and a former product manager at Facebook/Meta. Join us as we reflect on the inevitable ups and downs of motherhood and the strategies Danielle implemented to support her family 💛.Thank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

This week my guest is Dr. Brittni Boyd.She is originally from Los Angeles, California but grew up in Phoenix, Arizona. She attended Stanford University for undergrad. She went to medical school at UCLA, then completed her OBGYN residency training at UCSF. She went on to do a Urogynecology Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery fellowship at UC Irvine. Dr. Boyd is now a Urogynecologist and Reconstructive Pelvic Surgeon at Cedar Sinai. Raising two beautiful children, 3yo son and 4 month old daughter with her husband in LA.#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #obgyn #pelvicfloorexercise #pelvicfloorphysicaltherapy #urogynecologyThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney

Cynthia Wilkes is a mother of three - 5 year old twin boys Kam and Leo and 2 year old girl Maya. She holds a B.A. in Political Science from Stanford University and a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Management from the University of Southern California.Cynthia is currently serving as a Community Engagement Fellow at OES where she integrates principles from community-based participatory action research into ongoing evaluations. Drawing from scholarship in organizational behavior and critical race theory, she uses qualitative and mixed methods to explore intersectional experiences by looking at the ways in which systems reproduce inequity. #podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #obgyn #motherhood #postpartumjourney #twinmomThank you for listening ❤ PODCAST LINKS:- Podcast Website: ⁠https://goldenhour.fm⁠- YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@GoldenHourFM?ref=bs- Apple: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/golden-hour/id1768847425?ref=bs- Spotify: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/goldenhourfm?ref=bs- RSS: ⁠https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2401875.rss?ref=bsSOCIAL LINKS:- Instagram: https://instagram.com/goldenhour.fm?ref=bs- Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@goldenhour.fm?ref=bs#podcast #postpartum #mom #mother #momlife #motherhood #postpartumjourney