The POPPED Podcast with Dr. Emily Muery

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily challenges one of the most common narratives in pregnancy: the “big baby.” Instead of focusing on fear or worst-case scenarios, this episode breaks down how the label “big baby” is often based on estimates—not certainty—and how it can shift the entire trajectory of a birth before labor even begins.Dr. Emily walks through what actually matters in birth, including baby’s position, pelvic mobility, and the nervous system, helping moms move away from fear-based thinking and toward understanding how their body and baby are designed to work together. This episode reframes the conversation from size to support—giving moms a more accurate and empowering perspective on their birth.In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why the term “big baby” is often based on inaccurate estimates• How ultrasound measurements can influence decisions more than reality• What actually determines how a baby moves through the pelvis• Why positioning, movement, and nervous system state matter more than size• How the “big baby” label can lead to unnecessary interventions• Why your body is not growing a baby it can’t birthThis episode helps you shift from fear about baby size to confidence in how your body and baby work together.#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor  

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily breaks down one of the most common — and most frustrating — labels given to babies: colic. Instead of accepting colic as a diagnosis, this episode reframes it as a clue. Dr. Emily walks through what’s actually happening in a baby’s body and nervous system, why crying isn’t random, and how different underlying patterns like tension, digestion, feeding mechanics, and overstimulation can all show up as “colic.” Most importantly, this episode gives parents direction — helping them understand what to look for and where to go for real support.In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why colic isn’t actually a diagnosis• What your baby’s nervous system is trying to communicate• The most common patterns behind “colicky” behavior• How body tension, feeding issues, and digestion all play a role• Signs to look for that point to specific underlying causes• Where to go for support based on what you’re seeing• When symptoms may need further medical evaluationThis episode helps parents move from feeling stuck and overwhelmed to understanding what their baby is communicating — and knowing what to do next.#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #colic #colicky #colicsupport

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily breaks down one of the most misunderstood parts of pregnancy: “morning sickness” — that for many women feels more like all-day, lingering nausea. She explains the real physiology behind why nausea happens, including the role of hormones, the brain, and the gut, and why some women experience it far more intensely or for much longer than others. This episode also explores when nausea may need more support, and offers practical, realistic tools to help make this phase of pregnancy more manageable. Most importantly, this conversation validates the emotional experience of feeling sick for weeks or months — reminding moms that they are not alone, and that this is real physiology, not something they’re doing wrong.In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why “morning sickness” often lasts all day• The real causes of pregnancy nausea (not just hormones)• What GDF15 is and how it triggers nausea• Why some women feel sicker than others• When nausea becomes hyperemesis gravidarum (HG)• Practical tools to reduce nausea and support your body• How acupuncture and nervous system support can help• Why it’s okay if pregnancy doesn’t feel enjoyableThis episode helps you understand what’s happening in your body, feel validated in your experience, and walk away with tools to support yourself through one of the hardest parts of pregnancy.#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #hyperemesis #morningsickness #alldaysickness #prenatalsickness #prenatalacupuncture

In this episode of The Popped Podcast, Dr. Emily explores feeding beyond methods—shifting the focus away from breast vs. bottle and into what feeding actually creates between a parent and baby.Dr. Emily explains how feeding is one of the most repeated relational experiences in early life, shaping the nervous system through touch, presence, and response. She breaks down how repetition turns feeding into a ritual, why bonding is built over time (not instant), and how a parent’s state can influence the entire feeding experience.She also explores how modern feeding environments—distraction, isolation, and pressure—have shifted the experience of feeding, and how small, realistic changes can bring connection and intention back into everyday feeds.Most importantly, this episode reframes feeding as more than nourishment—helping parents see it as an opportunity for regulation, connection, and relationship, without adding pressure or perfection.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why feeding is a neurological and relational experience• How repetition creates safety and predictability for babies• Why bonding is built over time—not automatic• How your presence shapes the feeding experience• What’s changed about feeding in the modern world• Simple ways to bring ritual back into feedingThis episode helps parents shift from seeing feeding as a task to experiencing it as connection.#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #breastfeeding #bottlefeeding #posture #nervoussystem #bonding #bondingritual #motherhoodrituals 

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily continues the Feeding Series and breaks down one of the most talked-about topics in infant feeding: tongue ties, lip ties, and cheek ties. Instead of focusing on fear, this episode focuses on understanding feeding function.Dr. Emily explains how the tongue develops during pregnancy, how the tongue actually works during feeding, and why oral ties sometimes affect breastfeeding or bottle feeding mechanics. She also explores the signs parents may notice during feeds and how body tension, latch, and positioning can influence feeding success.Most importantly, this episode takes a solution-oriented approach to oral ties — helping parents understand when support, bodywork, or feeding adjustments may help, and when a release procedure might be considered.In this episode, you'll learn:• What tongue ties, lip ties, and cheek ties actually are• Why tongue mobility matters for feeding• Signs oral restrictions may be affecting feeds• How body tension can influence tongue function• What options exist for supporting babies with tiesThis episode helps parents move from fear about ties to confidence in supporting feeding.#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #breastfeeding #bottlefeeding #posture #nervoussystem #tonguetie #liptie #cheektie #frenulum #tonguetiesolutions

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily continues the Feeding Series by exploring why posture may be the most overlooked piece of infant feeding. Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle feeding, the way both mom and baby are positioned can influence latch mechanics, nervous system regulation, milk transfer, and the overall feeding experience.Dr. Emily walks through how posture affects feeding physiology, why alignment matters for both baby and mom, and how simple adjustments in positioning can dramatically improve feeding ease.In this episode, we cover:• The difference between sympathetic vs. parasympathetic posture during feeding• Why body alignment affects latch mechanics and milk transfer• How posture influences oxytocin, letdown, and feeding regulation• Common feeding positions and when to use them• Signs posture struggles may actually be structural tension patterns• When to seek additional support for feeding challenges#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #breastfeeding #bottlefeeding #posture #nervoussystem

In this one-year anniversary episode of The Popped Podcast, Dr. Emily continues the Feeding Series talking practical feeding tools — for breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and the struggles that show up no matter how you feed your baby. Because most feeding stress isn’t about failure. It’s about regulation, positioning, and knowing what to adjust.In this episode:Breastfeeding tools for latch pain, oversupply, low supply anxiety & engorgementBottle-feeding tools for flow preference, gassiness & combo transitionsWhat to do when baby falls asleep every feed or wants to eat constantlyThe posture layer most people miss — ribcage position, chin tuck, midline & maternal jaw tensionWhy feeding is often a nervous system conversation#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #breastfeeding #bottlefeeding 

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily continues the Feeding Series with a deep dive into the physiology, mechanics, and emotional landscape of bottle feeding. This conversation explores how feeding is first and foremost a nervous system exchange — not a moral decision.Dr. Emily breaks down the biological differences between breastfeeding and bottle feeding, including flow control, suck–swallow–breathe coordination, and how external regulation changes the feeding dynamic. She explains how paced feeding supports vagal tone, why flow rate matters for airway safety, and how visible ounces can shift parental psychology.The episode also unpacks oxytocin and bonding beyond milk source, the role of modern infant formula in medical history, and how feeding choices intersect with identity, recovery, and family stability. Dr. Emily addresses the cultural narratives surrounding bottle feeding and reframes the conversation around regulation, sustainability, and attachment.This episode is for parents who want clarity, not comparison — and who are navigating modern feeding decisions with both science and self-trust.#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #breastfeeding #bottlefeeding 

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily begins the Feeding Series by unpacking the biology, neurobiology, and modern pressure surrounding breastfeeding.From hormonal feedback loops and milk production to latch mechanics and the nervous system’s role in letdown, this episode separates mammalian design from cultural expectation.Inside this episode:• The stages of lactation and what “milk coming in” actually means• How prolactin and oxytocin regulate supply• Why stress can inhibit letdown• Cluster feeding, night feeds, and pump misconceptions• Structural influences on latch and milk transfer• What breastmilk does for baby — and for mom• The emotional weight of feeding in a performance cultureBreastfeeding is adaptive biology.#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #breastfeeding #bottlefeeding 

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily explores the science of labor induction, focusing on what induction methods are actually shifting inside the body to initiate labor.This episode covers:The natural labor cascade and how spontaneous labor is initiatedBaby’s role in starting labor, including fetal lung maturity and surfactant signalingHow cervical ripening works and what prostaglandins actually doThe difference between chemical ripening and mechanical dilationHow membrane sweeps function as a localized biochemical signalWhat changes physiologically when the water is brokenHow Pitocin stimulates contractions—and how it differs from natural oxytocinWhy induction methods are often layered and how physiology can become out of sequenceThe critical (and often overlooked) role of the nervous system in labor progressionThis episode is designed to help expectant parents understand how and why inductions work, offering clarity around common interventions and reframing induction outcomes through a physiologic—not fear-based—lens.#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #induction #pitocin #medicatedbirth #birthplan #laborinduction#folleyballoon

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery dives into labor induction from a perspective that’s rarely centered — the emotional and lived experience of being induced.This conversation explores:What labor induction can feel like when birth shifts from waiting to plannedWhy induction can bring up grief, pressure, and feelings of failure — even when it’s medically appropriateThe different types of labor induction (cervical ripening, hormonal, mechanical) and why not all inductions feel the sameHow cultural narratives around “natural” birth shape the way moms interpret inductionWhy needing support or intervention does not mean your body failedWhat actually matters most in induced births — beyond the method itselfThis episode is an invitation to hold nuance, process changes with compassion, and remember that induction is not failure — and your birth still belongs to you.#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #induction #pitocin #medicatedbirth #birthplan 

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery explores what parenting data actually shows — not to rank choices or define a “right” way, but to relieve the pressure so many moms carry.This conversation looks at documented child and relational outcomes across different parenting paths, including working moms, stay-at-home moms, breastfeeding and bottle-feeding, and single or non-traditional families. Rather than using research as instruction or comparison, the data is used to highlight resilience, adaptability, and the many ways children are supported when care is consistent and relationships are safe.At its core, this episode reframes parenting away from one defining decision and toward what truly supports development: emotional safety, responsiveness, repair, and caregiver support. It also acknowledges that not all parenting paths were chosen — and that resilience does not mean it wasn’t hard.This is an evidence-informed, nervous-system-aware episode meant to bring perspective, reassurance, and grounding — especially on days when parenting feels heavy.#pregnancycare #prenatalchiro #prenatalchiropractor #prenatalpodcast #postpartum #doula #comparisonculture #motherhood #stayathomemoms #workingmoms #breastfeedingmoms #bottlefeedingmoms 

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery explores why comparison feels so loud during pregnancy and early motherhood — and why it’s not a personal flaw or lack of confidence.Rather than offering tips to “stop comparing,” this conversation looks at the psychology and nervous system patterns behind comparison. Dr. Muery explains how identity shifts, loss of internal benchmarks, and high-stakes decision making naturally push the brain to look outward for reassurance. What often starts as curiosity can quietly turn into comparison when internal certainty hasn’t formed yet.This episode is about understanding why comparison shows up, normalizing the experience, and creating space for self-trust to return — without shame or pressure. It also sets the foundation for next week’s episode, where Dr. Muery dives into parenting data and why no single decision determines a child’s outcome.Key topics include:Why comparison increases during pregnancy and postpartumThe role of curiosity, identity shifts, and nervous system vigilanceHow loss of internal benchmarks fuels external scanningWhy comparison feels convincing — even when conclusions are incompleteHow understanding comparison can be more regulating than trying to stop itThis episode is for any mom who has ever wondered, “Am I doing this right?” — and wants relief before advice.#pregnancycare #prenatalchiro #prenatalchiropractor #prenatalpodcast #postpartum #doula #comparisonculture #motherhood 

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery breaks down one of the most common — and misunderstood — physical changes of pregnancy and postpartum: Diastasis Recti.This conversation is designed to calm fear, clear confusion, and reframe what’s actually happening in the body.In this episode, you’ll learn:What diastasis recti actually is (and what it isn’t)Why abdominal separation is normal during pregnancyThe layered anatomy of the abdominal wall and why it mattersWhat doming and coning mean — and when they’re simply feedbackThe difference between normal adaptation and dysfunctionWhy diastasis recti doesn’t “just close” on its ownHow breath and pressure management influence healingPractical tools for postpartum recovery, including movement, support, and referralsWhen pelvic floor therapy, chiropractic care, or extra support may be helpfulWhy you are not broken — and why your core is capable of rebuilding functionThis episode offers a grounded, non-fear-based approach to understanding diastasis recti, empowering listeners to support their bodies through pregnancy, postpartum, and beyond with clarity and confidence.#pregnancycare #prenatalchiro #prenatalchiropractor #prenatalpodcast #postpartum #doula #diastasisrecti #abseperation #doming #coning #coninginpregnancy #howtostopconing 

Transition into 2026 with  this episode of the POPPED Podcast, as Dr. Emily Muery pulls back the curtain and shares more of herself — not just as a prenatal and postpartum chiropractor or birth doula, but as the human behind the mic.Emily reflects on the evolution of the podcast throughout 2025, the lessons learned from showing up consistently, and the vulnerability that comes with creating long-form, education-forward content in the birth space. She shares how her work as a chiropractor and doula has shaped the way she views pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum — and why advocacy, education, and bodily autonomy sit at the heart of everything she does.This episode also explores what it means to support mothers and families without being a mother yourself, how that perspective has become a strength rather than a limitation, and why curiosity and humility continue to guide her work.To close, Emily offers a look ahead at what’s coming next for the podcast — including deeper dives, more solo episodes, and conversations with birth workers across disciplines — while honoring the growth, messiness, and magic of the year behind her.✨ A grounding, honest wrap-up for anyone who’s been listening along — or wants to know the why behind the podcast.#pregnancycare #prenatalchiro #prenatalchiropractor #prenatalpodcast #postpartum #doula 

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast Dr. Emily Muery explores relaxin — a powerful hormone that quietly shapes the pregnant and postpartum body. This conversation breaks down what relaxin actually does, when it rises throughout pregnancy, and why it plays such a critical role in pelvic adaptation, birth preparation, and recovery. Dr. Emily explains why relaxin doesn’t end at delivery, how it remains present during breastfeeding, and what this means for joint stability, pelvic floor healing, and the “wobbly” sensations many moms experience. From increased peeing and joint looseness to emotional sensitivity and lingering postpartum changes, this episode connects common symptoms to real physiology. The goal is simple: to help moms understand what their body is doing, why it makes sense, and how to work with these changes instead of fearing them. #Pregnancyhormones #relaxin #pregnancycare #prenatalchiro #prenatalchiropractor #prenatalpodcast #postpartum #relaxineffects

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery takes you inside the womb to explore the rhythmic, vibrant sound world your baby experiences long before birth. From your heartbeat to your breath to the tone of your voice, your baby grows inside a soundtrack that shapes their brain, their nervous system, and their earliest sense of connection. We cover:What sound is actually like inside the wombWhy baby responds to rhythm, tone, and vibrationHow your voice becomes their earliest regulatorWhy newborns love shushing, humming, and heartbeat soundsGentle, natural ways to use sound during pregnancyA special segment for moms who feel awkward talking to their babyHow the womb’s soundscape becomes a newborn’s emotional anchor in the fourth trimesterThis episode is grounding, wonder-filled, and full of simple reminders that you don’t have to perform bonding — your baby has been listening to you from the very beginning. Recorded in our brand-new podcast studio! 🎉This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #infantsounds #soundscape 

In this fifth and final episode of the Sleep Series, Dr. Emily Muery unpacks the complexities and controversies surrounding sleep training in early parenthood. As the final part of the five-part Sleep Series, this conversation dives into the cultural, emotional, and scientific sides of one of parenting’s most debated topics.Dr. Muery explores what “sleep training” actually means, breaking down the different methods—from gentle fading to full extinction—and what research says about each approach. She discusses why the topic is so emotionally charged, how cultural expectations shape our sleep philosophies, and what science really reveals about stress, attachment, and developmental readiness.Ultimately, this episode encourages parents to make informed, values-aligned decisions about their family’s sleep—without guilt, pressure, or comparison. The takeaway: there’s no single “right” way to help your baby sleep—just the one that keeps everyone rested, connected, and safe.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #cosleeping #bedsharing #roomsharing #infantsleep #newbornsleep #familysleeping #cosleep #sleeptraining #cryitout #sleeptrainingmethods 

This episode of The POPPED Podcast, is Part 3 of our 5-part Sleep Series — a deep dive into the realities of infant sleep. Each week, we’re breaking down a different stage or challenge so you can understand the biology, the emotions, and the practical tools that make this season easier to navigate.In this fourth episode, Dr. Emily Muery explores one of the most personal — and often polarizing — topics in early parenthood: where and how babies sleep. She unpacks the biological, cultural, and emotional factors that shape sleep choices, from cribs and bassinets to co-sleeping and family beds.Dr. Muery discusses what “safe sleep” really means, breaking down AAP guidelines while also addressing global perspectives that normalize sleeping close to baby. The conversation dives into the roots of fear-based messaging around bedsharing, what actually makes some setups unsafe, and how families can create safer, more intentional sleep environments that work for them.This episode offers parents practical tools, cultural insight, and reassurance — validating that there’s no single “right way” to sleep, only safe, informed, and supported ways that honor both baby’s biology and the family’s well-being.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #cosleeping #bedsharing #roomsharing #infantsleep #newbornsleep #familysleeping #cosleep 

This episode of The POPPED Podcast, is Part 3 of our 5-part Sleep Series — a deep dive into the realities of infant sleep. Each week, we’re breaking down a different stage or challenge so you can understand the biology, the emotions, and the practical tools that make this season easier to navigate.In this third episode, Dr. Emily Muery explores the reality of maternal sleep deprivation and its profound impact on both mental health and physical recovery. This conversation shifts the focus from baby sleep to the mother’s experience, highlighting how chronic exhaustion affects hormones, cognition, healing, and emotional well-being.This episode covers:The biological toll of sleep loss on hormones, healing, and cognition.How sleep deprivation heightens risk for postpartum depression, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts.The cultural gap between what mothers biologically need and what society expects.Why exhaustion is not a personal failing — it’s physiology.Practical strategies for rest, support, and navigating this season with compassion.Dr. Muery validates the lived experience of exhausted mothers while offering insight, context, and encouragement: you are not alone, and your need for sleep is real.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #newbornsleep #newmomsleep #newparentssleep #babysleep #babysleeppatterns #sleepregression #sleepprogression #3monthsleepregression #sleepdeprivation #maternalsleep #materalmentalhealth #mentalhealth 

This episode of The POPPED Podcast, is Part 2 of our 5-part Sleep Series — a deep dive into the realities of infant sleep. Each week, we’re breaking down a different stage or challenge so you can understand the biology, the emotions, and the practical tools that make this season easier to navigate.In this second episode, Dr. Emily Muery unpacks what’s really happening during the so-called 3–4 month sleep regression. Rather than a setback, this stage marks a massive leap forward in your baby’s brain and body.You’ll learn:The science behind the shift from newborn sleep to more adult-like cycles.Why babies wake more often at this stage — and why it’s a sign of progress, not failure.The emotional weight parents feel when sleep suddenly falls apart.Practical ways to support your baby (and yourself) through this transition.How frequent night waking serves an evolutionary and protective purpose.✨ Key takeaway: This isn’t a regression at all. It’s a normal, healthy progression — one that lays the foundation for more organized, restorative sleep in the future.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

This episode of The POPPED Podcast, kicks off a five-part deep dive into baby sleep. Dr. Emily Muery reframes the way parents think about newborn rest, showing why short stretches, frequent waking, and contact naps aren’t problems to fix — they’re exactly how babies are designed to sleep. Instead of chasing impossible expectations, this episode helps parents understand what’s normal, what’s not, and how to find support through the intensity of the newborn stage.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why newborn sleep cycles are biologically short and fragmented.How REM sleep fuels brain growth and protects infants.What’s developmentally appropriate in the first 0–3 months.Why “independent sleep” is more cultural than biological.How to respond to outside pressure and reframe sleep “success.”Practical ways parents can find rest, support, and perspective.This conversation is your permission slip to stop blaming yourself and start trusting that your baby’s sleep is working exactly as nature intended.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery explores a critical — and often overlooked — moment in birth: when to cut the cord.She unpacks the physiology behind delayed cord clamping, why those extra minutes matter, and what happens when we rush a process the body isn’t done with. From oxygenation to iron levels, stem cell transfer to emotional bonding, the umbilical cord is still hard at work after birth — and honoring that process can change everything about your baby’s transition to life.Whether you're planning a hospital birth, home birth, or cesarean, this episode gives you the tools to ask better questions, build a birth plan that reflects your values, and understand the science behind one of the first decisions made after delivery.You’ll also learn:What the cord actually does after birth (and why it keeps pulsing)How early clamping became routine in modern medicineWhat the research says about delayed clamping and long-term outcomesHow to advocate for your preferences in different birth settingsWhat to do if early clamping is necessary — and how to support your baby afterwardPlus: Lotus birth, cord burning, and why this moment means more than we thinkIf you’ve never heard of delayed cord clamping — or thought it was just for “crunchy” parents — this episode will shift your perspective and leave you feeling informed, confident, and connected to your baby’s beginning.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery dives into the power of visualization in preparing for labor and birth. Instead of a rigid checklist, she explores how visual birth plans can help expecting mothers connect with their bodies, their babies, and their desired birth experiences on a deeper level.The conversation highlights:The science of visualization and why mental rehearsal mattersHow visual birth plans differ from traditional written plansThe balance between holding a vision and releasing expectations of the journeyPractical ways to create your own vision—through affirmations, playlists, imagery, and sensory anchorsThis inspiring episode invites you to dream up your birth with intention while staying open to the unique path your labor may take.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery breaks down the truth about pregnancy cravings — what they are, where they come from, and why they’re not as random as they might seem.Cravings during pregnancy are often chalked up to hormones or quirky stereotypes, but there’s more happening behind the scenes. Dr. Muery explores how biology, hormonal shifts, gut changes, and emotional imprints all play a role in shaping what (and when) we crave.From pickles to pastries, this episode dives into:Why some cravings are nutrient-driven… and some are nervous system-drivenHow hormonal changes can blur your hunger and fullness signalsThe surprising influence of your gut microbiome on what you want to eatThe feedback loop that affects your cravingsA breakdown of common cravings and what your body might actually be asking forWhether you’re constantly craving carbs or wondering why ice suddenly sounds amazing, this episode will help you decode the signal behind the snack — and feel more empowered in the process.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery unpacks the experience of sensory overload during pregnancy (and postpartum) — when smells, sounds, lights, textures, and even food can suddenly feel like too much.She breaks down the biological and nervous system shifts behind these changes and explains why your body becomes more reactive to everyday input. From the pregnant nose to visual clutter to the feeling of being “touched out,” this episode explores each sense individually and offers tangible tools to help regulate your system.You’ll learn:* Why your senses are heightened * How sensory input impacts your nervous system (and emotions)* Practical strategies to soothe overwhelm in each of the five senses* Why this isn’t about being dramatic — it’s about being wise and responsiveThis episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling overstimulated, under-supported, or simply craving more space in a world that doesn’t slow down when your body says “enough.”This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery shares the most overlooked (and totally free) tool for supporting your baby’s development: floor time. From reflex integration to sensory exploration, she explains why giving babies space to move on their own terms is essential for brain-body development — and how modern parenting culture often complicates what should be simple.You’ll learn how movement wires the brain, what actually happens in baby gear like bouncers and loungers, and why floor time builds more than muscles — it builds focus, coordination, and confidence. Dr. Emily also debunks the myth that parents need to entertain their baby 24/7 and reframes independent play as a powerful step toward healthy development.Whether you’re a new parent or a seasoned one, this episode will help you feel empowered, not overwhelmed — and remind you that the floor is enough.#ThePoppedPodcast #BirthEducation #BabyLedBirth #LaborAndDelivery #ChiropracticForPregnancy #PregnancyPodcast #DoulaSupport #BirthWorkerLife #ExpectingMoms #BirthPrep #prenatalchiropractor #independentplay #tummytime #babydevelopment #childdevelopmentThis episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery explores what recovery can look like after common birth interventions like epidurals, Pitocin, C-sections, antibiotics, magnesium sulfate, and more. While these tools can be necessary and even life-saving, they also impact how your body heals after birth—and that part is rarely talked about. If you’ve been asking yourself:How do I recover from birth interventions?How do I recover from an epidural?How do I recover from Pitocin?How do I recover from my C-section?How do I recover from antibiotics?How do I recover from magnesium?How do I recover from tears?How do I recover from scar tissue?How do I recover from birth trauma?THIS EPISODE IS FOR YOU!Dr. Emily walks you through what your nervous system, fascia, gut, and hormones might still be processing weeks or even months postpartum. She breaks down how birth interventions can influence pelvic alignment, scar tissue, lymphatic flow, and even baby’s adjustment to life outside the womb. You’ll learn how to support your healing through gentle, natural tools like chiropractic care, craniosacral therapy, breathwork, movement, nourishment, and rest—without the pressure to “bounce back.”Whether you had one intervention or many, this episode reminds you that your recovery matters, that it’s never too late to start supporting your body, and that healing is always possible—with the right tools, the right awareness, and a whole lot of grace.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

 this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery unpacks one of early parenthood’s most stressful (and misunderstood) challenges: the carseat meltdown.From the lens of nervous system development and primal instincts, you'll learn why many infants struggle with containment and separation during car rides—and why it has nothing to do with being a “bad sleeper” or “fussy baby.” Dr. Emily explores how sensory processing, vestibular immaturity, and the innate need for proximity contribute to carseat distress, and she shares practical tools to help ease the tension for both baby and parent.Whether you’re dreading your next road trip or simply looking for a little peace between errands, this episode will leave you feeling validated, informed, and empowered to navigate carseat chaos with confidence.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery gives a peek inside her doula bag and walks you through the go-to tools she brings to every birth so you can build your birth bag, hospital bag, or something in between! From hands-on comfort measures to energy-shifting items like affirmation cards and battery candles, Emily shares the what and—more importantly—the why behind each item.You’ll also hear:Her must-haves for labor supportHow she personalizes her bag for each birthWhat partners can pack to feel prepared, confident, and supportiveWhether you're a doula-in-training, a birth partner getting ready for game day, or just love a good behind-the-scenes breakdown, this episode offers practical insights with heart.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast Dr. Emily Muery breaks down a common — but often dismissed — source of pain in pregnancy: Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD).She kicks things off with a Popped Quiz to help listeners recognize what’s normal versus what’s just common (and not okay to ignore). Then, she dives deep into what SPD actually is, why it happens, and how to tell the difference between “normal discomfort” and dysfunction.From the anatomy of the pubic joint to the emotional toll pelvic pain can take, this episode is packed with validation, education, and practical tools. Whether you’re currently pregnant, supporting someone who is, or preparing for birth, you’ll walk away with insights that matter — and the reminder that you don’t have to suffer through pain just because it’s “part of the deal.”This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery dives into the powerful, invisible world of the infant microbiome—and how it lays the foundation for lifelong health.From birth method to breastfeeding, she unpacks how a baby’s gut is colonized, why it matters, and what parents can do to support it. You’ll learn the difference between gut issues and normal newborn behavior, the role of skin-to-skin and delayed bathing, and why spit-up doesn’t always mean a microbiome problem. The episode also explores vaginal seeding, water birth, and what to know if antibiotics are part of your story.Whether your baby was born vaginally, via C-section, en caul, or into a tub, this episode will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and equipped with simple, practical ways to support your baby’s gut health—no perfection required.Mentioned in this episode:Infant probiotics to explore: B. Infantis, L. Reuteri, and L. Rhamnosus GG—ask your provider if they’re appropriate for your babyThis episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery unpacks one of the most misunderstood phases of birth: prodromal labor. Often labeled “false labor” and brushed off as insignificant, this early phase is anything but false. It’s real work — quiet, essential, and deeply physiological.Dr. Emily explores:The difference between pre-labor, prodromal labor, and early laborWhat’s really happening when labor starts and stopsThe role of cervical ripening (and why dilation isn’t the only thing that matters)The emotional and hormonal shifts that prepare the body for birthWhat you can do to support this phase — and what you don’t have toHer go-to tool for clarity: the Tub Hydration TestIf you’ve ever felt stuck, sent home, or unsure if your body is “doing enough,” this episode will help you see pre-labor through a new lens — one of trust, timing, and transformation.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery explores the quiet powerhouse of preconception: progesterone. Often overlooked and rarely explained, progesterone plays a vital role in ovulation, implantation, early pregnancy, and emotional balance.Rooted in real-life conversations from her chiropractic practice, this episode dives into how progesterone works, what disrupts it, and how to support it naturally—with simple, nourishing steps you can begin today.You’ll learn:Why progesterone is essential for conception—and what your luteal phase can revealWhat spotting, short cycles, or anxiety after ovulation may be trying to tell youHow stress, blood sugar, and thyroid health all play into hormone balanceThe underrated role of gut health, chiropractic care, and nervous system regulationCycle tracking, seed cycling, and holistic tools for building a hormone-happy bodyWhether you’re actively trying to conceive or just curious about supporting your cycle, this conversation is here to offer clarity, compassion, and body literacy.This episode is sponsored by The Final PunctuationVisit thefinalpunctuation.com

In this episode of The Popped Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery dives into one of the most overlooked but essential systems in a newborn’s body — the cranial nerves. These tiny-but-mighty nerves control everything from latching and swallowing to bonding, calming, and early movement.The episode opens with a fun “POP Quiz” to test what’s innate and what’s learned in early baby development — and uses those questions as a guide to explore how babies are wired to survive, and how those reflexes can sometimes need a little extra support.Dr. Emily breaks down:What cranial nerves are and why they matter in the newborn periodHow they influence feeding, facial expression, sleep, and regulationWhat birth experiences (long labor, cesarean, vacuum-assisted, etc.) can do to impact their functionSigns of cranial nerve dysfunction and how to spot them earlyGentle, effective ways to support your baby’s nervous system — from chiropractic care and CST to feeding therapy and babywearingWhether you're a parent, doula, or just birth-curious — this episode will change the way you see newborn behavior. It’s not about memorizing anatomy — it’s about understanding how your baby’s nervous system is already working hard to connect with you.

In this episode of The Popped Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery dives into the powerful—and often overlooked—golden hour after birth. This sacred window, the first hour after delivery, is more than just a sweet moment—it's a biological necessity for both baby and parent.Dr. Emily breaks down the physiological magic of uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact, from stabilizing baby’s vitals to initiating breastfeeding and bonding through a surge of oxytocin. She explores what’s happening neurologically in both baby and birthing parent, how hospital routines can unintentionally disrupt this critical time, and—most importantly—how to advocate for it.You’ll also learn what to do when things don’t go as planned, how to reconnect with your baby after separation, and why kangaroo care and re-bonding rituals matter. The episode wraps with a global perspective on birth, highlighting how traditional cultures honor the golden hour in ways that modern systems often miss.Whether you're expecting, supporting someone through birth, or just curious—this episode will help you understand why the first hour matters more than most people realize.

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery unpacks the due date myth — where it came from, why it’s misleading, and what actually determines when labor begins.You’ll learn how the traditional 40-week countdown is based on outdated math, why only 5% of babies arrive “on time,” and how labor is triggered not by a calendar, but by a signal from your baby’s lungs — a protein that kicks off the cascade of labor hormones.This episode is rooted in the simple truth that all babies grow, develop, and arrive at their own pace. Dr. Emily walks you through the science behind gestation length, the real (and rare) risks of going past your due date, and how to ask the right questions when induction is on the table.There’s also a gentle reminder for IUI and IVF parents: even when conception is timed down to the hour, your baby still decides when they’re ready. This episode is an invitation to stop watching the clock and start trusting the process. Because you’re not late. You’re right on time.

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery explores the fourth trimester—through the eyes of your baby.We talk about what it’s really like to be born into a brand new world, why your presence matters more than your perfection, and how your nervous system helps regulate theirs. You’ll learn how co-regulation works, why some babies are more sensitive than others, and what’s really happening when your baby seems overwhelmed.We also cover sensory overload, reflex integration, and how to support your baby during those intense early weeks—not with doing more, but with understanding more.This episode begins with words from @wordsofemmaheaphy- Happy Mother’s Day 💕

In this episode of The POPPED Podcastt, Dr. Emily Muery flips the script on labor by spotlighting someone who rarely gets credit — the baby.We explore the powerful, instinctive ways babies actively participate in the birth process, from cardinal movements and head molding to reflexes, descent, and positioning. You'll learn how your baby twists, tucks, and rotates through the birth canal, how they help initiate labor, and what fetal “stations” really mean.We also dive into common concerns like decelerations, shoulder dystocia, and what happens when babies need a little help — all while reframing labor as a beautifully choreographed, mutual effort between you and your baby.💡 Whether you’re preparing for birth, supporting someone through it, or just fascinated by the physiology of labor, this episode is packed with insight and perspective that will change the way you think about birth.

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery shines a light on the placenta — the often-forgotten organ that makes pregnancy possible. She unpacks how the placenta forms, what it actually does, and the common complications that can arise, like previa, accreta, abruption, and calcification. You’ll also learn why calcification is more tied to how long you’re pregnant than how old you are. Dr. Emily also explores how Indigenous communities have long monitored pregnancy health without ultrasounds. Plus, she dives into practices like delayed cord clamping, lotus birth, and placentophagy, including new research on microplastics found in the placenta and what it could mean for postpartum choices. This episode is a deep, evidence-based, and culturally rich look at the organ that supported your baby before you ever held them in your arms.

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery explores the powerful practice of babywearing—why it matters, how it works, and what it really means for both baby and parent.You'll hear how carrying your baby isn’t just sweet—it’s biologically hardwired. Dr. Emily unpacks the science behind babywearing, including its impact on bonding, brain development, digestion, and emotional regulation. She also breaks down common cultural myths (like “you’ll spoil the baby”) and contrasts human babies with other mammals to highlight just how natural it is to keep our babies close.Expect practical tips on different babywearing methods, a special shoutout to doula and babywearing advocate @sarahhiebyoga /@joyfulbabywearing and a compassionate reminder that it’s okay to feel “touched out” and take space when you need it.This episode is a gentle nudge to trust your instincts, follow your baby’s cues, and embrace parenting with presence—not perfection.

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery dives into the profound journey of motherhood, highlighting the incredible innate strengths and intelligence that women possess throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. Through a blend of storytelling and evidence-based insights, she reveals how the female body is naturally designed to nurture, protect, and heal – even in the nuanced and unpredictable moments of pregnancy and motherhood.Dr. Emily also tackles common myths about maternal instincts, empowering listeners to trust their bodies and intuition. Plus, she shares practical tips on building community support and practicing mindfulness as essential components of thriving through the ups and downs of motherhood. Tune in to discover how to embrace your inner strength and navigate the beautiful, complex journey of being a mom.

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery dives into the ultimate natural labor toolkit, sharing essential tools and techniques to help manage labor pain and enhance the birthing experience. From hands-on methods like the comb and TENS unit to mind-body practices like guided meditation and affirmations, Dr. Emily covers it all. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the causes of labor pain, staying mentally grounded, and building a supportive birth environment. Tune in to discover practical tips and empowering strategies to feel more in control during labor and create a positive, peaceful birth experience.

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery dives into the deeply misunderstood reality of postpartum recovery. While most women are told they’re “cleared” at six weeks, the truth is: healing takes much longer — and it runs much deeper. She unpacks the full-body recalibration that happens after birth, from hormonal crashes and nervous system shifts to core instability, pelvic floor dysfunction, and why true musculoskeletal recovery can take 9–12 months.She also shares what postpartum care could include, how to recognize common but not normal symptoms, and why support systems matter more than ever in this season of healing.Whether you’re six weeks, six months, or six years postpartum — this episode is your reminder that you’re not behind, and you’re not alone.

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery explores the Fetal Ejection Reflex (FER), a natural and involuntary response during childbirth that can occur under optimal conditions. She discusses the mechanics of FER, common misconceptions, the importance of the birthing environment, and how to optimize conditions for this reflex to occur. The episode emphasizes the significance of understanding FER for expecting mothers and their support teams, aiming to empower them with knowledge for their desired birthing experience.References:* Odent, M. (1987). The Fetus Ejection Reflex. Birth, 14(2), 104-105* Kitzinger, S. (2003). Rediscovering Birth. Little, Brown.* Smith, J., et al. (2019). Spontaneous Pushing in Home and Birth Center Settings: A Retrospective Study. Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health.* Brown, H., et al. (2021). Perineal Outcomes in Spontaneous vs. Coached Pushing During Physiological Birth.BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics & Gynaecology.* Pelvic Pain Rehab. (2022). The Fetal Ejection Reflex and How It Works.* Lennon, K. (2023). Understanding the Fetal Ejection Reflex.* Evidence-Based Birth. (2020). Birthing Positions and the Role of Oxytocin in Labor.

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery discusses the realities of water breaking during labor, contrasting the dramatized portrayals in media with the actual experiences of women. She explains the anatomy and function of the amniotic sac, the different types of membrane ruptures, and the implications of each on labor. The episode also addresses common misconceptions, the signs of water breaking, and the importance of being prepared for various scenarios during childbirth.

In this episode of The POPPED Podcast, Dr. Emily Muery discusses the Webster technique, a chiropractic approach to addressing breech presentations during pregnancy. She explains the causes of breech presentation, the importance of pelvic alignment, and how chiropractic care can help facilitate optimal fetal positioning. The episode also covers preventative care, when to start chiropractic care, and shares success stories  of Moms who benefited from the Webster Technique. Dr. Emily emphasizes the empowerment of mothers in their birthing choices and the importance of seeking chiropractic care throughout pregnancy.Resources:-The Village Sessions Podcast with Molly Peralta, Michale Chatham, and Kori Meloy-icpa4kids.com -Resolution of Breech Presentations Following Adjustment of Subluxations Utilizing the Webster Technique: A Case Series Joel Alcantara, D.C., Sal Martingano, D.C., Vivian Keeler, Liselotte Schuster, D.C., Jeanne Ohm, D.C.