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Sleep struggles are one of the most common challenges new parents face—but with so much conflicting advice, how do you know what approach is right for your baby and your family?

In this episode of Ask the Doulas, we’re joined by sleep consultant Mariana Yancik of Gold Coast Doulas to break down the differences between gentle sleep training methods and the often-debated “cry it out” approach. Mariana shares expert insight on what these methods actually look like in real life, how they impact your baby’s development, and how to choose a strategy that aligns with your parenting style.

We dive into:
• What “gentle” sleep training really means
• The truth about cry it out (and common misconceptions)
• When to start sleep training
• How temperament and family dynamics play a role
• Tips for creating healthy, sustainable sleep habits

Whether you’re in the thick of sleepless nights or planning ahead, this episode will help you feel more confident and informed in your approach to infant sleep.

🎧 Perfect for expecting parents, new families, and birth and baby professionals looking to better support their clients.

This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Use the code GOLDCOAST to receive a discount of up to 20 percent off.

Subscribe to our newsletter, check out Kristin Revere’s birth and baby book, and see more about our doula services & online courses below:

https://linktr.ee/goldcoastdoulas

gentle sleep training | cry it out method | CIO sleep training | baby sleep training methods | infant sleep tips | newborn sleep support | baby sleep consultant | postpartum sleep help | sleep training without crying | responsive parenting sleep | attachment parenting sleep training | how to get baby to sleep | baby sleep schedule | sleep regressions | safe sleep practices | fourth trimester sleep| Kristin Revere | Ask the Doulas | Ask the Doula | Gold Coast Doulas |

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Is “pregnancy brain” real—or is there more going on beneath the surface?

In this episode, we’re joined by Becky Gleed of the Perinatal & Reproductive Wellness Group to unpack the very real experience of brain fog during pregnancy and postpartum. From forgetfulness and mental fatigue to the emotional load of motherhood, Becky shares what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek additional support.

We dive into how hormonal shifts, sleep deprivation, and mental health all play a role in cognitive changes—and how perinatal wellness support can make a meaningful difference for moms navigating this season.

This conversation is a must-listen for expecting and new parents who want to feel seen, supported, and empowered with tools to care for both their minds and bodies.

Because when mothers are supported, everyone benefits.

This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Use the code GOLDCOAST to receive a discount of up to 20 percent off.

Subscribe to our newsletter, check out Kristin Revere’s birth and baby book, and see more about our doula services & online courses below:

https://linktr.ee/goldcoastdoulas

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In this episode of Ask the Doulas, we’re talking all about social media and doulas with Doula Darcy. Social media has become one of the most powerful ways for families to discover support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum, but it can also feel overwhelming to navigate.

Darcy shares practical tips for parents on how to find the right doula through platforms like Instagram and other social channels, including what to look for in a doula’s online presence and how to spot someone who aligns with your values and birth preferences.

For doulas and birth professionals, this conversation also dives into smart, sustainable ways to market your services online. Darcy breaks down strategies for showing up authentically on social media, building trust with potential clients, and creating content that helps families feel informed and supported.

Whether you are expecting a baby or building your doula business, this episode offers helpful insights into using social media to connect, educate, and grow.

This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Use the code GOLDCOAST to receive a discount of up to 20 percent off.

Subscribe to our newsletter, check out Kristin Revere’s birth and baby book, and see more about our doula services & online courses below:

https://linktr.ee/goldcoastdoulas

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Sensitive skin and newborns often go hand in hand, leaving parents overwhelmed, exhausted, and unsure of what products are truly safe and effective. In this episode, we sit down with Andrea Faulkner Williams, co-founder of Tubby Todd Bath Co., to talk about navigating dryness, eczema, and reactive skin in babies.

We dive into why newborn skin is so delicate, common triggers for irritation, how to simplify your baby’s skincare routine, and what parents should look for when choosing products. Andrea also opens up about balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship while raising four little ones in San Diego.

If you are navigating cradle cap, baby acne, eczema, or just want to better understand how to care for your newborn’s sensitive skin, this episode offers reassurance, practical guidance, and hope for smoother days ahead.

Subscribe to our newsletter, check out our birth and baby prep book, and see more about our doula services & online courses below:

https://linktr.ee/goldcoastdoulas

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Mom groups have been making headlines lately, and not always in a positive way. While stories about mom group drama and social tension can get attention, they don’t reflect what supportive communities are truly about. The right mom group can be a lifeline during pregnancy and postpartum, offering connection, encouragement, and practical support when families need it most.

In this episode of Ask the Doulas, Kristin Revere of Gold Coast Doulas sits down with Sarah Greidanus, Owner of FIT4MOM Grand Rapids, to discuss the real value of mom groups and how to find one that feels welcoming and supportive. We discuss how structured mom groups help reduce isolation, build confidence, and create meaningful friendships during a major life transition.

You’ll learn what to expect from FIT4MOM classes and meetups, how community support improves both physical and emotional wellness, and why surrounding yourself with the right people can make motherhood feel less overwhelming.

Whether you're expecting your first baby or adjusting to life with multiple children, this episode will help you understand how to find your village and why positive mom communities matter more than ever.

This conversation is a reminder that motherhood was never meant to be done alone.

This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Use the code GOLDCOAST to receive a discount of up to 20 percent off.

Subscribe to our newsletter, check out Kristin Revere’s birth and baby book, and see more about our doula services & online courses below:

https://linktr.ee/goldcoastdoulas

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Choosing a baby formula can feel overwhelming, especially in a world full of strong opinions and fear-based messaging. In this episode, I’m joined by Mallory Whitmore, known as The Formula Mom, to have an honest, judgment-free conversation about formula feeding.

We break down the different types of baby formula, how to read ingredient lists without getting caught up in fear around soy, corn syrup, or seed oils, and how to release the guilt or shame that can sometimes surround feeding choices.

Whether you’re exclusively formula feeding, combo feeding, or simply exploring your options, this episode will help you feel informed, confident, and supported.

Mallory is the author of the new book,
Bottle Service: Education and Encouragement for Guilt-Free and Successful Formula Feeding, which is available in bookstores and online.

This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Use the code GOLDCOAST to receive a discount of up to 20 percent off.

Subscribe to our newsletter, check out Kristin Revere’s birth and baby book, and see more about our doula services & online courses below:

https://linktr.ee/goldcoastdoulas

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In this episode of Ask the Doulas, host Kristin Revere is joined by Alyssa Veneklase, pediatric sleep consultant and co-host of the podcast, to talk all about Newborn Survival and why a baby prep class can be one of the most valuable tools for expecting parents.

We break down what families actually need to know before bringing a newborn home, from sleep and feeding basics to soothing techniques, realistic expectations, and common challenges in the early weeks. Alyssa shares why education before baby arrives can reduce anxiety, build confidence, and help parents feel more prepared for life in the fourth trimester.

Whether you’re expecting your first baby or want a refresher before adding another, this episode explains how a newborn prep class can set you up for a smoother transition into parenthood and why support and education matter just as much as the gear.

This episode is sponsored by Cozy Earth. Use the code GOLDCOAST to receive a discount for up to 20 percent off.

Subscribe to our newsletter, check out Kristin Revere’s birth and baby book, and see more about our doula services & online courses below:

https://linktr.ee/goldcoastdoulas

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When families prepare for birth, so much focus is placed on supporting the birthing parent and partner. But what about older siblings?

In this solo episode with Kristin Revere, co-host of Ask the Doulas and founder of Gold Coast Doulas, we explore the role of a sibling doula and why this often overlooked form of support can make a meaningful difference for the entire family. A sibling doula provides emotional and practical care for older children during labor, birth, and the early postpartum period, helping them feel safe, included, and supported during a major life transition.

We discuss what a sibling doula does, what they do not do, and how their role differs from a traditional babysitter. You will learn how sibling doulas prepare children ahead of time, maintain routines, explain what is happening in age- appropriate ways, and support sibling introductions after birth.

This episode is especially helpful for families welcoming their first sibling, those without nearby support. Birth is not just a transition for parents. It is a big moment for siblings too, and thoughtful planning can help set the tone for a smoother adjustment.

This episode is brought to you by Ceres Chill, a company that never stops working to make the lives of parents easier! Use the promo code GOLDCOAST to receive 15% off your Ceres Chill order.

Subscribe to our newsletter, check out Kristin Revere’s birth and baby book, and see more about our doula services & online courses below:

https://linktr.ee/goldcoastdoulas