Where Joy Blooms: All things pregnancy, birth and parenthood

In this episode we chat about Britt's newest little bun in the oven! We still can't believe this is even happening but BRITT'S HAVING ANOTHER BABY! Find out all the goss! HOW? WHEN? WHAAAT??? All the details you need to know and probably don't need to know but definitely WANT to know! We also have some pod news :( it's a little bitter sweet to be taking some time off but rest assured we will still be active on socials (hopefully more active now we won't be AS busy), and we WILL be back in your ears at some stage! Thank you so much for your listening, following and support. All our love, Britt & Em xx Find us on Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

In this episode we chat to the lovely Maddie who was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in childhood and for many years thought pregnancy might not be achievable for her. When she fell pregnant, which was unplanned but definitely not unwelcomed, she found it extremely hard to find the right care, management and information about type 1 diabetes during pregnancy. This led to a not so great experience. However with her second pregnancy, a planned pregnancy, she was able to really get on top of her diabetes prior and make sure she had a good team behind her to be able to support her throughout the pregnancy. And even though she found out she was having TWINS, it felt like a much smoother pregnancy in terms of diabetes control and management! @forgettingmaddo Follow us on Instgram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

You might remember Katie from last weeks episode but this week we are taking a break from birth stories and diving into the world of mental health and psychology, particularly in the setting of matrescence (becoming a mother). We talk to Katie about the main reasons women and mothers reach out for help and why we might struggle with those things. It is an amazing resource which is continuing to grow and gain awareness across the country. Katie has provided some amazing resources if anyone is looking for some help and doesn't know where to start, and as always, don't be afraid to chat to your GP about what help is available to you :) https://www.cope.org.au/e-cope-directory/ https://forwhenhelpline.org.au/ Find Katie on Instagram @themummypsychologist or her website www.themummypsychologist.com.au Find us on Instagram @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

In this episode we chat to the lovely Katie who is actually a perinatal psychologist so is very well equipped in the whole birthing and motherhood space. For this episode we talk about her own birth stories and the little life lessons she took from each experience. Katie managed to have 2 vaginal births but definitely made some changes for her second birth. Also.. is Katie's husbands grandmother psychic? She somehow predicted when Katie would birth her babies BOTH TIMES! @themummypsychologist Find us on instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

Today is world albinism awareness day so what better time to share the story of Shannon and her son Drake; who was diagnosed with Albinism shortly after his birth. Like most people, Shannon was completely unaware that her or her husband were carriers for albinism. It wasn't ever something that needed to be tested or brought up. But once Drake was born, he displayed some features related to albinism which made the doctors run some more tests and eventually Drake was diagnosed with OCA1A. Shannon and her husband also found out they are carriers of the albinism gene which means their chances of having a child with this condition was around 1/4. Learn all about navigating this condition. What is means for Drake and his family. What help and support is out there and how difficult it can be to get the proper support for people with albinism. @mrs_gravox Follow us on Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

Join us as we chat to Keirsten about her 3 pregnancy and birth experiences. Keirsten was able to have 3 vaginal births but they all played out a little differently. She experienced both birth after induction and spontaneous labour, with her littlest love arriving into the world very quickly! Overall, Keirsten's births were very positive and uncomplicated which is so important for us to hear. Among all the birth stories, we often find ourselves diving into a pool of complications, when in reality birth CAN and IS such a straight forward and positive experience for many women. @keirstlouise Find us on instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

Today we share the lovely Emily's story. Emily had a perfect pregnancy, but when it came to the birth, it was far from what she imagined! Unfortunately, after labouring for many hours, she birthed her son via an emergency cesarean under a general anesthetic. This led to her not meeting her son until hours after his birth which, in some way, affected the postpartum bonding and breastfeeding journey. During the 4th trimester Emily struggled with the mental and physical load of becoming a mother and things started feeling a bit too much. This ultimately made her feel like she couldn't possibly have another baby and go through it all again. But luckily, after getting the help and support she needed and deserved, she felt ready to do it all over again. Her second birth was a much more positive and calm experience which in some way, was healing! The postpartum journey was completely different and she is so glad she got to experience how amazing having a baby can truly be! Find us on Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

This week we speak to the lovely Rachel who completely opens up about her struggles with PPD and PTSD after having her daughter in 2020. She is so honest about her experiences and treatments and shares exactly why you should seek help, even if you're not sure you have PPD. Not only did she experience mental health issues during her postpartum journey, but she's also been through a lot in life; including ectopic pregnancy, PCOS, endometriosis and eventually a hysterectomy. Definitely an interesting listen that's for sure! @rachellkovacevic_ Find us on Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

Our chat with Haydie was so good that we had to split it over two episodes!! This week we speak to Haydie about being a doula. What is a doula? What do they offer and why should you consider one? And then a bit of education on myotherapy. What exactly is it and how can it be beneficial during pregnancy and postpartum. If any of these areas interest you or you just have some more questions then feel free to check out Haydie's professional instagram and website @dels_doula! Donate to Ilana and her family: https://www.gofundme.com/f/nathan-lawrence?utm_campaign=p_cp%20share-sheet&utm_medium=social&utm_source=instagram_story&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2IHbe7axGk8ySSAi6Rt2RAlm044ievsy6tLmc-f_Rt-trM5_NwPEgTrlo_aem_Ab37Ub4M59FSF5thSnyJmRj6MaL5HfVXEQllJuCkYs0GiXDzhzF5k1qWsRytN_Do2WBYNuIBFtotqfx7o_xeNftb Find us on Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

In today's episode we chat to the lovely Haydie about her two pregnancy and birth stories. She shares how her positive first birth helped influence her decision to become a doula (among other factors) and how standing your ground and advocating for yourself is absolutely your right as a patient and mother! What happens to YOU and YOUR baby is in your hands and it's okay to ask more questions in order to make an educated, informed decision. Next week, we will also dive into her profession as a pre/post natal myotherapist and doula so stay tuned! @dels_doula Follow us on instgram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

This week we have the lovely Laura sharing her birth experience with her second child Clara. Laura's first pregnancy and birth was during peak covid times with many restrictions around birthing partners/support. Luckily, at the time of birth she was able to have her husband and mum with her but she decided that she didn't want to ever be in a situation where she may have to birth alone. This led her to look into a home birth and whether she met the criteria through the public system to be able to achieve one. Her first birth was pretty straight forward with no complications and little intervention/pain relief so this gave her the confidence that she could do it at home! Laura went on to have an amazing home water birth and and an experience she'd definitely do again! @laura.nisbet94 Follow us on Instagram @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

This week we are having a little break from birth stories and chatting about something that doesn't nearly get enough discussion the INVISIBLE workload. Britt opens up about how her family dynamics and relationship has changed. It can feel more like your roommates rather than a married couple. So if this is you too then you're not alone!! This is our second last episode of season 2 before we have a little break, recharge and regroup for season 3! Happy listening :) Find us on Instagram @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

In todays episode we chat to Emily’s best friend Courtney. Courtney talks us through her recent experience with multiple miscarriages before finally falling pregnant with a nice healthy bub. The two miscarriages were quite different from each other. Requiring different care and intervention. Currently around 20 weeks pregnant, Courtney’s journey is still unfolding and we wish her all the best with the remainder of her pregnancy and birth 😊 @courtneyjade06 Find us on Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

In this episode we chat to the lovely Allecia who fell pregnant with fraternal twins unplanned and definitely unexpected! Everything was going extremely well with the pregnancy until she hit around 34 weeks and developed HELLP syndrome (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes and Low Platelets). Her initial plan of a vaginal birth went completely out the window when she had to be hospitalised and flown to Adelaide, where she eventually birthed via an emergency c-section. Still to this day, Alle reflects and feels angry and sad about the way things played out; but is ever so grateful to have her 2 (well 3 including her eldest) beautiful babies! Find us on Instagram @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

In this episode we strip it back to just us! No birth story. No special guest. Just your hosts! We delve into life lately and take you through how we fed our babies- breastfeeding, mixed feeding, bottle feeding and formula feeding. We have it all! No two feeding journeys are the same. Just like no two pregnancy's or people are the same. So we think it's so import to be open and honest about how feeding our babies looked. Sometimes it was easy. But sometimes it was (and still is) so so hard! So don't worry mumma. We see you! We are you! And you've got this!! Find us on instragram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

!!TRIGGER WARNING!! This episode talks about pregnancy loss. This episode features a chat with the beautiful Melissa. Mel's first experience of pregnancy sadly ended in a loss after ultrasounds revealed megacystis. Little Angel Aria Louise was born still at around 14 weeks gestation; An extremely hard experience for Mel and her partner. Mel's amazing strength and determination to be a mother to earth side children kept her going and now they have 2 beautiful babies in their arms. We hope you enjoy listening to Mel's experience. Some very sad lows but also beautiful highs! Mel's instagram @zac_ventures_ Find us! Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email: [email protected]

For todays episode we spoke to Steph, a FTM from northern NSW. She talks through her long journey to motherhood. Overcoming all the hurdles life threw their way.. PCOS, increased BMI and fertility issues due to the PCOS, COVID border closures and finally IVF. It is a remarkable story of Steph and Jordan's mental strength and determination to become parents. We're so happy they got their beautiful little Norah after years of trying and planning. Hope you all enjoy listening :) Steph's instagram: @houseofjoy.naturopathy Our instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Our email: [email protected]

In this episode we chat with Emily's sister Kayla! She opens up about the chronic pain and years of suffering due to endometriosis. It affected her life in many ways... career, relationships, friendships and even sports/hobbies. It took multiple health professionals and 3 looong years before finally getting her diagnosis and treatment. As we've come to learn, endo isn't something that you can magically fix overnight. Even with a treatment plan and surgery you can still experience flare ups and bad days. We hope this chat helps everyone to understand endometriosis a bit better so that you can seek the proper help if needed OR just be able to support a friend going through it :) If this episode brings forward any questions then don't hesitate to reach out. Kayla is happy to help where possible. @kayla.farley98 Follow us on Instragram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email us: [email protected]

In today's episode Britt got to chat with Caitlin, a FTM to TRIPLETS! Caitlin takes us through the conceiving journey, finding out she was having not one but three babies and the challenges involved with having multiples. If you're expecting multiples then this might be a good listen for you! Caitlin expressed that during her pregnancy and postpartum she found it difficult to know where to look for help, particular for those expecting multiples! She found the organisation "Multiple Birth Volunteer Support Foundation Inc" (linked below), and although it is Melbourne based, it may help you to find what your state/city offers :) https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fmbvs.org.au%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwAR3MYrBtLcovr6CZ0zb51OaiKSdCt35oEt3SgtkItRXCI7oz0knL32o5o_s&h=AT2HDGIXr5Xy8vX93T5k1maTCDiIIfiIHRKbBSXaUwvn1yz0liUT56FXpN6jXRO4ZxgVsDWbevjVCpg7Blrf3ASSrPCoKh00GaGkf00GFxRIDqhRPIZSZUHHwBlxBZhD_tU @berryblue2191 Get in contact with us! Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email: [email protected]

HELLLOOOO and welcome back! We're so excited to be back and chatting to you guys again. How was your Christmas? We let you know about ours and what we've been up to during our break. Then Britt talks to us a little bit about the role of ultrasound during pregnancy. Basically what its used for and what you can expect! This is a very basic chat and obviously the experience of pregnancy and ultrasound during pregnancy varies between person to person but also each pregnancy. Just a reminder that Britt is not a doctor and isn't giving any medical advice! She is purely talking about her role as a sonographer and her own experiences. Britt is happy to answer any questions that may arise after listening to this chat. If she can't personally answer your questions, then she will guide you in the direction of someone that can! Happy listening :) Get in touch with us! Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email: [email protected]

In this weeks episode we had the absolute pleasure of chatting to Ilana, a wife and mother from Newcastle, NSW to continue with part 2 of her story. She addresses some questions and feedback she received from her first story (ep. 8). We then jump in talking about her first pregnancy which was a natural conception and a LONG labour during peak COVID before diving into her second pregnancy with her newest bub, Minnie, who is an IVF baby. Ilana discusses her trouble with conception, endometriosis and intrusive thoughts during this episode as well. Ilana is such a moving speaker. She is so honest and open about everything she's had to endure to get to where she is today and we thank her for being so vulnerable with us all. You can tell how passionate she is about helping others, particularly those in less fortune situations. This episode is such a great follow on from part 1 where we spoke about Ilana's up bringing and now the wonderful life and family she has created. We hope you all enjoyed following along with Ilana's journey! If you want to keep learning more about Ilana then head over to her Instagram where she will be updating about her life and also her experiences with conception and infertility. @thereallifeshift Donate to Ilana and her family: https://www.gofundme.com/f/nathan-lawrence?utm_campaign=p_cp%20share-sheet&utm_medium=social&utm_source=instagram_story&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2IHbe7axGk8ySSAi6Rt2RAlm044ievsy6tLmc-f_Rt-trM5_NwPEgTrlo_aem_Ab37Ub4M59FSF5thSnyJmRj6MaL5HfVXEQllJuCkYs0GiXDzhzF5k1qWsRytN_Do2WBYNuIBFtotqfx7o_xeNftb As always, we'd love for you to get in touch with us! Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email: [email protected]

Hey guys! We know you were probably so pumped for Part 2 of Ilana's story but unfortunately the busy mum life left us with no time to finish off our chat. BUUUUT don't worry! We WILL bring her story to you soon! So instead, this week we asked you all on our instagram to send in some questions so we're having a bit more of a casual conversation and answering those! You'll get a bit more of a look into our lives as mums :) We hope you enjoy and as always feel free to send in questions, suggestions, feedback over to us at any time! Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email: [email protected]

In this weeks episode we had the absolute pleasure of chatting to Ilana, a wife and mother from Newcastle, NSW. She had an interesting upbringing to say at the least, and talks about the challenges and strain that put on her and her own mothers relationship. In her own words, she describes her upbringing as being in a cult like environment and tells us how she ultimately made the decision to leave and go out on her own. Having to sleep on a mattress on the floor for 3 years, putting herself through high school and university to create a better future for herself. Ilana is such a moving speaker. She really speaks so well about everything she's had to endure to get to where she is today. You can tell how passionate she is about helping others, particularly those in less fortune situations. This episode truly is such an interesting, unique, and inspirational story and we hope you all enjoy following along with Ilana's journey! @thereallifeshift Donate to Ilana and her family here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/nathan-lawrence?utm_campaign=p_cp%20share-sheet&utm_medium=social&utm_source=instagram_story&fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2IHbe7axGk8ySSAi6Rt2RAlm044ievsy6tLmc-f_Rt-trM5_NwPEgTrlo_aem_Ab37Ub4M59FSF5thSnyJmRj6MaL5HfVXEQllJuCkYs0GiXDzhzF5k1qWsRytN_Do2WBYNuIBFtotqfx7o_xeNftb As always, we'd love for you to get in touch with us! Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email: [email protected]

Hey Guys! We're changing it up this week and had one of our best friends Bianca on the podcast to have a little wedding chit chat. With such a busy month ahead for us, jam packed with a Bridal shower, Hens night, throw in Remi's first birthday and then finally the big wedding day, we thought it would be the perfect opportunity to let you guys in on whats happening in our lives right now! And hey, if you're currently engaged and planning a wedding, maybe some of Bianca's tips might come in handy! Or just hearing the process behind it all might make you want to elope like Britt :P Aaanyway... follow our socials for celebration updates :) and of course other episode content! Instgram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email: [email protected]

In this episode Britt got the opportunity to sit down and chat to the lovely Steph! Steph shares how she was denied her first birthing preference as a FTM and ended up having an emergency C-section under a general anaesthetic. She also speaks about some of the struggles with navigating postpartum, making mum friends and the difficulty returning to work with the current childcare crisis here in Australia. Steph's story is so interesting and really highlights the importance of following your gut and standing your ground when it comes to advocating for yourself and your wishes. We wish Steph all the best as she continues on her parenting journey! @stephhanlon_ Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email: [email protected]

In this episode we are talking all things solids as Emily embarks on her journey to introduce solids to her little one now that she is quickly nearing 6 months. Britt shares her experience of food with both kids and how she went about it all, while also sharing some of her favourite resources. This episode is really just an open discussion between Britt and Emily and is in no way professional advice; however we have taken info from our favourite accredited accounts/pages @startingsolidsaustralia @boobtofood @babiesfeedingbabies @tinyheartseducation Avent Steamer & Blender: https://www.babybunting.com.au/product/avent-steamer-blender-47356?istCompanyId=e136afe6-fe62-489b-abc8-c9de17deb6b8&istFeedId=82d466cf-4ae1-474b-8ca8-9866c775bb45&istItemId=rprpwariw&istBid=t&srsltid=AfmBOor0Gid4un76utPROyP0D6afRPOqIJh1IR-JmTDERAa1viReVOxp7G0 We hope you find this relatable and useful as you all feed your little ones :) Instagram @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email: [email protected]

After her first pregnancy ended in a miscarriage, Britt and her husband finally got to welcome their precious rainbow baby. In this episode Britt talks about her pregnancies with her 2 girls and explains her experience with a Caesarean Section. Her first was due to a breech position, and although she was hoping for a VBAC second time round; it wasn't meant to be. Maybe next time ;P Follow us on instagram @wherejoyblooms.podcast for more content and info Email: [email protected] Please follow and review if you like this episode :)

October is pregnancy and infant awareness month so in this episode Britt is sharing her first pregnancy experience, which sadly ended in miscarriage. We will be discussing fetal anomalies, medical termination and miscarriage at 12 weeks; so if any of these are triggers for you then please feel free to skip this episode and we'll see you in the next one :) Although Britt and her partner experienced a great loss and a rocky road to parenthood, they now have 2 happy and healthy girls and were able to work through the heartache to create the family they always wanted. This episode opens up a discussion about pregnancy loss, particularly when it's not expected; and shines a light on the absolute blessing and miracle it is to be able to carry and birth a healthy baby. We hope that this can help people that may have experienced a similar loss, or even those that haven't, so that they can have some understanding to be able to support a loved one that's ever in this unfortunate position. Follow us on Instagram @wherejoyblooms.podcast Email: [email protected] Or please feel free to use the Q&A attached to this episode

In this episode we thought we'd break up the pregnancy and birth stories with a discussion of some of our favourite newborn and postpartum items. We will post a list for both on our instagram @wherejoyblooms.podcast, and tag some of our fav brands. Plus! BREASTFEEDING ON THE TOILET? Have you done it? Britt opens up about her week from hell and just life with kids and sickness really! As always, we'd love if you could leave a review or any questions/feedback and hit "follow" plus the bell icon so you don't miss out on future episodes :) email: [email protected] Instagram: @wherejoyblooms.podcast

In this episode we introduce ourselves and the ideas we have for this podcast. Then we talk to co-host Emily, about her pregnancy, birth and journey to motherhood. We are by no means experts in this area and we hope to continue to grow and learn as the episodes progress. Follow us on Instagram @wherejoyblooms.podcast. Send us an email with any questions or suggestions at [email protected]. If you enjoy this episode we’d love it if you could leave a review and subscribe so you don’t miss future episodes ❤️