• Ep. 364 The Hidden System Running Your Health: Lymphatic Drainage 101 with Dr. Chris Motley
    Jul 18 2025

    In this episode of the Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe interviews Dr. Chris Motley, an alternative health practitioner specializing in traditional Chinese medicine, frequency medicine, and kinesiology about the importance of the lymphatic system. They discuss how proper lymphatic drainage supports overall health, reduces stagnant toxins, and impacts everything from hormones to immune function. Dr. Motley shares practical tips for enhancing lymphatic movement through practices like dry brushing, gua sha, and vibrational plates, emphasizing the emotional and physical benefits of lymphatic massages. The conversation also touches on the safety and benefits of lymphatic drainage during pregnancy, postpartum, and breastfeeding. HeHe and Dr. Motley explore how personalized care and traditional practices can significantly improve wellbeing. This episode is packed with data-driven insights and practical advice for anyone looking to optimize their health through lymphatic health.

    00:00 Introduction to the Fascial and Lymphatic Systems

    01:22 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast

    03:03 The Importance of Lymphatic Drainage

    05:12 Introducing Dr. Chris Motley

    08:54 Understanding the Lymphatic System

    15:13 Emotional and Physical Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage

    19:58 Choosing the Right Practitioner

    22:44 Personal Insights and Elemental Qualities

    33:32 Understanding Your Element and Body

    34:30 Facial Diagnosis in Chinese Medicine

    37:14 Lymphatic Drainage Techniques

    39:58 Lymphatic System and Immune Function

    47:51 Lymphatic Health and Hormones

    55:52 Lymphatic Drainage During Pregnancy and Postpartum

    01:02:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Guest Bio:

    Dr. Chris Motley is a globally recognized alternative health practitioner specializing in Traditional Chinese Medicine, frequency medicine, and kinesiology. His mission is to eliminate fear surrounding health information and empower individuals to take control of their well-being.

    As the host of the Ancient Health Podcast, Dr. Motley merges ancient Eastern wisdom with cutting-edge Western innovations to offer practical solutions for today’s health challenges. With over 120K downloads, the podcast has featured leading experts such as Dr. Daniel Amen, Dr. Josh Axe, and Dr. Mindy Pelz.

    Dr. Motley’s unique approach integrates modern technology with time-honored healing practices, recognizing physical, neurological, and emotional health as interconnected aspects of overall well-being. He holds a B.S. in Biology from Austin Peay State University, a Doctorate of Chiropractic, and certifications in Acupuncture, Kinesiology, and Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET).

    Through his transformative approach to medicine and passion for holistic health education, Dr. Motley continues to inspire individuals on their journey to optimal wellness.

    INSTAGRAM:

    Connect with HeHe on IG

    Connect with HeHe on YouTube

    Connect with Dr. Motley on IG

    BIRTH EDUCATION:

    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

    Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

    LINKS MENTIONED:

    https://www.doctormotley.com/

    Get a 15 Day Free trial of Dr. Motley’s Membership program (https://www.doctormotley.com/offers/LHigrcfn)

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Ep. 363: The Overmedicalization of birth and your right to decline with Melanie the Midwife
    Jul 16 2025

    This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth, one of HeHe’s favorite things to have on hand for a comfy pregnancy and postpartum period! Use code HEHE for 40% off the softest PJ’s, loungewear, or even new sheets to make your pregnancy and postpartum feel a little more luxurious: https://cozyearth.com/

    Grab HeHe’s Scripts for Advocacy here!

    Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

    In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host Hehe welcomes Dr. Melanie Jackson, a renowned midwife and PhD holder in midwifery, also known as Melanie the Midwife. They dive into the intricacies of the hospital birth system, discussing how over-medicalization can affect birth outcomes and the importance of educating oneself to navigate these systems effectively. Dr. Jackson shares insights on the cascade of interventions, the significance of understanding hospital policies, and ways to take radical responsibility for your birth experience. Both Hehe and Dr. Jackson advocate for women to be well-informed and proactive in their childbirth planning. They also touch upon the similarities and differences between the Australian and U.S. healthcare systems, the rising cesarean rates, and how confirmation bias affects the acceptance and practice of new medical research. The episode wraps up with a discussion of Dr. Jackson’s resources, including her Guide to a Great Birth and the Great Birth Rebellion podcast.

    00:00 Introduction to Birth and Interventions

    01:00 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

    01:14 Understanding the Cascade of Interventions

    02:30 Navigating the Hospital System

    03:32 Introducing Dr. Melanie Jackson

    05:42 Resources for Advocacy and Research

    08:42 Meet Preg Nancy: A Unique Educational Tool

    15:34 The Industrialization of Birth

    27:54 The Power of Advocacy and Education

    43:38 Equipping Your Birth Support Team

    44:46 Taking Control of Your Birth Experience

    46:48 The Reality of Postpartum Comfort

    49:25 Understanding C-Section Rates in Australia

    50:16 The Impact of Medicalization on Birth

    57:24 The Role of Research and Confirmation Bias

    01:06:53 Navigating Hospital Policies and Personal Responsibility

    01:17:26 Resources and Final Thoughts

    Guest Bio:

    Dr Melanie Jackson (AKA Melanie The Midwife) loves to help midwives and women around the world better understand and apply the research relating to matrescence (the process of becoming a mother). She does this as the host of The Great Birth Rebellion Podcast, supporting and mentoring midwives, as well as educating mothers.

    Melanie has a PhD in Midwifery - Birth Outside the System: Wanting the Best and Safest. She has various publications in academic journals. Mel has worked in multiple research roles and lectured at Western Sydney University.

    Since 2009, Mel has been a Privately Practising Midwife, providing homebirths in the Blue Mountains. She has mentored midwives into private practice in every state and territory across Australia and supports rebellious midwives around the world through The Assembly of Rebellious Midwives and The Convergence of Rebellious Midwives.

    SOCIAL MEDIA:

    Connect with HeHe on IG

    Connect with HeHe on YouTube

    Connect with Mel the Midwife on IG

    Connect with Mel on YouTube

    BIRTH EDUCATION:

    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

    Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

    LINKS MENTIONED:

    Check out Dr. Mel’s website

    The Convergence for midwives

    Listen to The Great Birth Rebellion

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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • Ep. 362: Do's and don'ts of aesthetics like botox during pregnancy and nursing with Claire O'Bryan
    Jul 11 2025
    In this enlightening episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe dives into the world of skincare during pregnancy with nurse practitioner Claire O'Bryan, founder of The Skin Clique. They explore the surprising fact that most skincare ingredients are not regulated by the FDA and discuss what it truly means for a product to be 'clean'. They tackle common pregnancy skincare concerns such as melasma, acne, and the safety of popular ingredients like retinoids and salicylic acid. The episode also touches on the controversial topics of Botox, fillers, and the efficacy of supplements like collagen in skincare. Claire provides practical advice on crafting an effective, simple daily skincare routine and the importance of sunscreen, while addressing misconceptions about the need for sunscreen. Tune in to get evidence-based answers to your burning skincare questions and learn how to navigate the complexities of beauty products safely in pregnancy and beyond. 00:00 Introduction to Skincare Safety 02:00 Common Skincare Concerns During Pregnancy 03:50 Interview with Claire O'Bryan 04:51 Skincare Regimens and Fads 07:20 Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Ingredients 11:06 Acne Treatments During Pregnancy 15:33 Retinol Alternatives and Supplements 20:37 Daily Skincare Routine Essentials 25:16 Sunscreen Myths and Facts 34:51 Effective Sunscreen Reapplication 35:42 Blue Light Protection in Sunscreens 36:32 Impact of Screen Time on Skin 38:39 Understanding Botox and Fillers 44:32 Botox Safety During Pregnancy and Nursing 50:36 Microneedling and Skincare During Pregnancy 01:01:34 Preventing and Treating Stretch Marks 01:06:18 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Guest Bio: Claire O'Bryan is a dynamic nurse practitioner and entrepreneur dedicated to empowering women and amplifying the voices of female healthcare leaders globally. Her mission extends beyond traditional medical aesthetics – she's reshaping how we think about healthcare delivery while paving the way for women in leadership. As the co-founder of Skin Clique, Claire continues to help revolutionize the medical aesthetics industry through a groundbreaking concierge model. Since launching Skin Clique in 2019, what began as a vision for more accessible skin health has grown into a nationwide network of 1,000 skilled providers across 43 states. This expansion reflects not just business success but a transformation in how people access professional treatments and skincare. It is the modern approach to skin health. INSTAGRAM: Connect with HeHe on IG Connect with Claire on IG BIRTH EDUCATION: Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/ Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/app-download-page LINKS MENTIONED: www.claireobryan.com www.skinclique.com: Use code Claire10 for a discount! Pregnancy safe skincare: https://shopmy.us/collections/549485 Collagen meta analysis: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/?utm_source ACOG https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/toxic-chemicals-steps-to-stay-safer-before-and-during-pregnancy ACOG Skin Conditions https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy Retinol VS Bakuchiol in a double blind RCT https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/ Systematic Review of Retinol VS Bakuchiol https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36176207/ Collagen https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10180699/
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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Ep. 361: Q+A with HeHe from IG DM's: due dates, flying while pregnant, informed decisions, and more!
    Jul 9 2025

    Join us in this solo-cast of the Birth Lounge podcast where HeHe dives into a Q&A from her instagram community! In this episode, she is addressing some of your most pressing questions about pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. Topics covered include the differences between 'on paper' and actual pregnancy weeks, the nuances of cervical checks and how to decline them, navigating anxiety and nutrition during early pregnancy, how to handle airport security while pregnant, and the intricacies of declining certain medical procedures like membrane sweeps and scheduled C-sections. HeHe also shares essential tips on dealing with family visits to newborns and addressing the impact of GBS testing and breech births. Don't miss this episode to help ensure a healthy and autonomous pregnancy and birthing experience.

    00:00 Introduction and Zero Tolerance Policy

    00:56 Welcome to the Birth Lounge Podcast

    01:24 How to Get Your Questions Answered

    03:15 Understanding Pregnancy Weeks

    05:59 Declining Cervical Checks

    11:42 Coping with Pregnancy Anxiety and Weight Loss

    14:14 Traveling While Pregnant

    18:11 Declining a Scheduled C-Section for Breech Baby

    22:44 Managing Weight Monitoring During Prenatal Visits

    26:57 Group B Strep Testing Concerns

    30:57 Membrane Sweeps: Risks and Benefits

    32:04 Setting Boundaries for Newborn Visits

    36:05 Addressing Concerns About VBAC

    45:14 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    INSTAGRAM:

    Connect with HeHe on IG

    BIRTH EDUCATION:

    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

    Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

    LINKS MENTIONED:

    Pushing Freebie: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/pushing

    Secret Sauce to Pushing Course: https://www.thebirthlounge.com/secretsaucetopushing

    GBS information: https://evidencebasedbirth.com/groupbstrep/

    Membrane Sweep, Ep. 268: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5V41R8PDhH2Kia48mdqdub?si=kz6gtEh6SJGIGOz_pT1j6w&nd=1&dlsi=7b03c32c4cd24188

    Radiation when Flying:

    • https://www.cdc.gov/radiation-health/data-research/facts-stats/air-travel.html
    • https://www.tsa.gov/videos/travel-tips-pregnant-travelers
    • https://www.epa.gov/radtown/radiation-and-airport-security-scanning
    • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC153688/
    • https://www.arpansa.gov.au/understanding-radiation/radiation-sources/more-radiation-sources/flying-and-health
    • https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/air-travel-exposes-you-to-radiation-how-much-health-risk-comes-with-it/

    Don't weigh me cards:

    https://more-love.org/product/dont-weigh-me-cards-postage/

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    47 mins
  • Ep. 360 Unlocking Your Birth Chart with Helena Woods
    Jul 4 2025

    In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe welcomes special guest Helena Woods, a world-traveling astrocartographer and author of 'Slow Living.' Helena shares insightful knowledge on astrocartography, the astrology of location, and how it can influence your life map, career success, relationships, and motherhood. The discussion also delves deep into the power of manifestation and astrology, revealing how to live a magical life aligned with your astrological placements. HeHe and Helena explore the profound effects of migrating and how one’s birth chart and astrological lines can uncover significant opportunities and connections globally. Additionally, Helena offers valuable tips for each zodiac sign on how to embrace pregnancy, birth, and motherhood. Tune in for an enlightening episode filled with wisdom on manifesting the life you desire through the lens of astrological insights.

    00:00 Introduction and Welcome

    01:42 Manifestation Practices and Personal Insights

    02:54 Guest Introduction: Helena Woods

    04:39 Astrocartography Explained

    09:07 Understanding Astrological Lines

    23:11 Relocation Astrology and Its Impact

    27:19 Future Predictions and Technological Advancements

    39:33 Astrological Signs and Family Dynamics

    45:57 Unexpected Pregnancy and Trusting the Universe

    48:41 Astrological Insights on War and Global Conflict

    56:36 The Role of Technology and AI in Future Conflicts

    01:04:07 Astrology and Personal Relationships

    01:12:47 Astrological Guidance for Each Zodiac Sign

    01:19:52 Resources and Final Thoughts

    Guest Bio:

    Helena Woods is a world traveling astrocartographer, Youtuber, online course creator and author of the book Slow Living. As an astrologer, she uniquely specializes in location, helping people create magical lives in places they thrive. Originally from San Diego, California, she now lives abroad in France but travels often as she shares her astrocartography findings with others. Living slowly around the world, she creates from her heart to inspire others to create a magical life in a place they love. Since her business began, she's taught over 1500 students the power of location using astrology, timing and astro maps. She's been featured in The Economist, Conde Naste Traveler and more!

    SOCIAL MEDIA:

    Connect with HeHe on IG

    Connect with HeHe on YouTube

    Connect with Helena on IG

    BIRTH EDUCATION:

    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

    Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

    LINKS MENTIONED:

    https://helenawoods.com/freebies

    https://helenawoods.com/courses

    helenawoods.com

    YOUTUBE LINKS:

    Connect with HeHe on YouTube

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    1 hr and 26 mins
  • Ep. 359 Your Postpartum Plan: Tools and Tips for a Smooth Transition Solo-cast with HeHe
    Jul 2 2025

    This episode is brought to you by Cozy Earth, one of HeHe’s favorite things to have on hand for a comfy postpartum! Use code HEHE for 40% off the softest PJ’s, loungewear, or even new sheets to make your postpartum feel a little more luxurious.

    In this solo episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe discusses the key components of comprehensive postpartum preparation. She covers essential tools to make postpartum life easier, strategies for health and nutrition, best practices for feeding your newborn, and actionable tips to optimize both your and your baby's sleep. HeHe also highlights the resources available in the Birth Lounge membership and app, including evidence-based articles and supportive community features. The episode emphasizes the importance of mental health, informed decision-making, and how to prepare for a smoother transition to motherhood.

    00:00 Introduction to Postpartum Preparation

    00:53 Welcome to The Birth Lounge Podcast

    01:16 Postpartum Prep Overview

    01:52 The Birth Lounge Membership and App

    04:57 Diving into Postpartum: Four Key Categories

    05:40 Home Systems and Responsibilities

    10:33 Postpartum Preparation Tools

    24:38 Health and Nutrition for Postpartum

    30:22 Feeding Your Baby: Tips and Support

    39:18 Newborn Sleep Essentials

    47:57 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    INSTAGRAM:

    Connect with HeHe on IG

    BIRTH EDUCATION:

    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

    Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

    LINKS MENTIONED:

    Nyssa Care postpartum underwear

    Lasinoh cooling

    Silverettes (use code HeHe)

    Witch hazel pads

    Swaddle

    White noise machine

    MAM pacifier

    Cozy Earth Pajamas and Sheets (use code HEHE for 40% off!)

    Ep 356 with Ashlee Brown

    Ep. 219 baby reflux with Aine Homer

    Newborn Sleep Solution

    Magnesium calm powder

    YOUTUBE LINKS:

    Connect with HeHe on YouTube

    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • Ep. 358: Unveiling Spiritual Connections: Psychic Mediumship, Spirit Babies, and More with Jessica Lynne
    Jun 27 2025

    In this fascinating episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, host HeHe is joined by Psychic Medium Jessica Lynne to delve into the world of psychic mediumship, spirit babies, energetic blocks, and the power of surrendering in life and labor. Jessica shares her extraordinary abilities to connect with the spirit world, offering comfort and guidance to those seeking connections beyond the material realm. They discuss the concept that babies choose their parents, the lessons learned through challenging experiences, and the role of spirit guides. Jessica also provides personal insights for HeHe's pregnancy, including an intuitive sense of a baby boy and a unique vision of a potential shower birth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about spirituality, mediumship, and the magical connections that exist in our lives.

    00:00 Introduction to the Episode

    01:50 Exploring Psychic Mediumship

    03:09 Personal and Energetic Blocks

    16:30 Intentional Language and Manifestation

    20:35 Trusting the Journey

    30:17 Introduction to Spirit Babies

    31:03 Choosing Our Parents and Babies

    31:45 Personal Reflections on Parental Relationships

    34:32 Expectations and Realities of Pregnancy

    35:35 Gender Intuition and Preparations

    38:08 Birth Plans and Spiritual Connections

    49:17 The Role of Faith and Spirituality

    51:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Guest Bio:

    Jessica Lynne is a gifted medium whose extraordinary abilities have intrigued and captivated seekers looking for connections beyond the material world. Emerging as a guiding light and source of comfort, Jessica assists those in search of reconnecting with departed loved ones. Using her profound spiritual insight and empathetic approach, Jessica Lynne has dedicated her life to bridging the gap between the living and the spirit world.

    Jessica has had the honour & privilege of reading for an array of celebrities, professional athletes, musicians and business owners. She has recently been featured on The Morning Show, 7News, The Australian, Marie Claire, Mamamia & Body+Soul, to name a few.

    Jessica conducts her readings online so she can connect with clients all over the world.

    If you would like to connect with Jessica you can follow her on Instagram @jessicalynnemediumship, check out her website at www.jessicalynnemediumship.com or listen to her podcast "Talk Spirit To Me"; ranked #2 on the Apple Charts for Spirituality:

    Listen on Spotify

    Listen on Apple

    INSTAGRAM:

    Connect with HeHe on IG

    Connect with Jessica on IG

    BIRTH EDUCATION:

    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

    Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

    LINKS MENTIONED:

    www.jessicalynnemediumship.com

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    55 mins
  • Ep. 357: Navigating Parental Leave in the U.S.: Insights from Hello Bundle's Linzay Davis
    Jun 25 2025

    In this episode of The Birth Lounge podcast, HeHe welcomes Linzay Davis, founder of Hello Bundle, to discuss the complex landscape of parental leave in the United States. They explore topics such as the lack of a standardized national paid parental leave policy, the nuances of FMLA, options available through individual states and employers, parental leave for entrepreneurs, and advice on how to best prepare for maternity or paternity leave. The conversation also highlights the importance of understanding company policies, state programs, and the potential legal issues surrounding parental leave. Linzay shares valuable insights and actionable steps for expecting parents to maximize their time off and financial support during this critical period.

    00:00 Introduction to Parental Leave Issues in the US

    01:35 Guest Introduction: Linzay Davis from Hello Bundle

    02:31 Understanding Parental Leave Options in the US

    03:01 Navigating FMLA and Short-Term Disability

    04:57 Challenges and Confusion Around Parental Leave

    06:11 Exploring Job Protection and Accommodations

    07:35 The Reality of Parental Leave in the US

    19:45 Legal Rights and Risks of Asking for Accommodations

    24:19 Planning and Preparing for Parental Leave

    25:43 Parental Leave for Non-Gestational Parents

    26:51 Understanding Short Term Disability and Parental Leave

    27:50 Navigating HR and Company Policies

    33:15 State vs. Employer Leave Policies

    36:05 Parental Leave for Entrepreneurs and Small Business Employees

    42:31 Best Practices and Resources for Parental Leave

    43:26 Top States and Companies for Parental Leave

    47:00 Creating an Ideal Nationwide Parental Leave Policy

    48:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Guest Bio:

    Hello, Bundle helps new and expecting parents navigate parental leave in the US so they can take the most paid time off possible when they have a baby.

    SOCIAL MEDIA:

    Connect with HeHe on IG

    Connect with HeHe on YouTube

    Connect with Linzay on IG

    Connect with Linzay on TikTok

    BIRTH EDUCATION:

    Join The Birth Lounge here for judgment-free childbirth education that prepares you for an informed birth and how to confidently navigate hospital policy to have a trauma-free labor experience!

    Download The Birth Lounge App for birth & postpartum prep delivered straight to your phone!

    LINKS MENTIONED:

    https://www.hello-bundle.com/

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    52 mins