Growing - podcast cover

Growing

Beth Ryan and Lilly Claxtonpodcasters.spotify.com
Growing is your handbook for birth, babies and beyond brought to you by midwives and mums Beth Ryan and Lilly Claxton. Join us every Wednesday for a solid dose of solidarity as we explore all things motherhood.
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Episodes

EP98: Lil’s Gentle Journey To Weaning

This week on Growing , Lilly shares what it really looked like to gently wean her 19-month-old toddler. Far from a “cold turkey” approach or bandaids over nipples, this was a slow and steady transition that balanced Lil’s own physical and emotional needs while also supporting Ru through the change with love and patience. In this episode, Lil opens up about: Why she chose a gradual weaning approach How she navigated both the physical side (goodbye to blocked ducts and engorgement) and the emotion...

Aug 26, 202526 min

Baby Wearing 101: Safety, Benefits & Keeping Your Baby Close

This week on Growing, Beth and Lilly are joined by the beautiful Sarah Mahri (@sarahmahri.babywearing) for a conversation that feels like a big warm hug. Together, they unpack the art and science of baby wearing — sharing both the benefits and practical tips to help parents keep their babies close, safe, and supported. In this episode we explore: The many benefits of attachment-focused baby wearing for babies and parents How to choose the right carrier for your family Baby wearing on the go Safe...

Aug 19, 20251 hr

E96: Feeding The Family: Our Grocery Budgets, Hacks And Go-To Meals

In this episode we unpack how much we're dropping on groceries, how we organise family meal times and all the little hacks along the way that make it all work. We chat: What we're spending on average each week Where we're shopping - what works about this and what doesn't Our go-to meals that we serve on repeat How we plan our meals, snacks, staples and freezer fillers This is a nosy look into a weekly routine we're ALL doing, plus we share lots of ideas and tangible tips you can steal. This week...

Aug 12, 20251 hr 1 min

E95: Realistic Recovery After Birth

Welcome back to Growing! This week, we break down the first 24 hours, the first week, and the so famous "Six Week Check" with an honest lens - from bleeding and stitches to night sweats and low libido. Whether you’re a first-time mum or preparing for your second or third, this episode is a warm hug and a gentle truth bomb. You are not broken, you are recovering. We talk about: What’s actually normal postpartum Bleeding, bladder and body changes in the early days Why rest isn’t optional - it’s es...

Aug 05, 20251 hr 2 min

E94: VBAC: A Conversation with Dr Hazel Keedle

This week on Growing , the Lilly and Beth talk VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Caesarean) with Dr Hazel Keedle - midwife, researcher, and leading voice for women planning birth after caesarean. If you're seeking a different experience after a planned or emergency C‑section, this evidence-based conversation aims to help you feel both informed and supported. This episode is proudly sponsored by PowerBirth. Our go-to for evidence-based birth prep - created and taught by midwives, for you. Whether you’re ...

Jul 29, 20251 hr 5 min

E93: Unpacking our latest motherhood dilemmas (aka our 'Growing Pains')

This week on Growing, the girls get into the real weeds of modern motherhood - the kind of stuff that rarely makes it onto The Gram. Beth (@birthwithbeth_) opens up about the relentlessness of keeping everything afloat - parenting little people, running a business, showing up for friendships, and trying not to drop the ball. It's the mental load. It's the juggle. And it's that all-too-familiar feeling: we can do it all - just not all at once. Meanwhile, Lilly (@lillian.beth) is wrestling with th...

Jul 22, 20251 hr 9 min

E92: Can we talk about trying to conceive?

In today's episode of Growing, Lilly and Beth have an honest chat about their respective experiences of ‘trying’ for a baby and the strangeness of the waiting for something you want badly but is not within your control. We chat about the wild brain shift that happens for some women (them included) when you decide you want to be pregnant and it’s all. you. think. about. This episode addresses how 'trying' starts fun and rapidly becomes tedious. The weird limbo you land yourself in by unintentiona...

Jul 15, 20251 hr 13 min

E91: Meeting Mum in Matrescence: A Practical Guide for Dads

In this episode of Growing, we’re joined by Jason from @raising_fathers - father of two, coach, and champion of conscious fatherhood, for a practical conversation about how Dads can show up for their partners during matrescence. If you’ve ever wondered how to better support your partner through the rollercoaster of early motherhood, this episode is your guide. Whether you’re preparing to become a parent, in the thick of the fourth trimester, or just want to do things differently Jason brings pra...

Jul 08, 20251 hr 3 min

☎️ Call the Midwife - Ask us Anything

We’re wrapping up our Call the Midwife mini-series with a juicy Q&A - answering your most commonly asked questions about pregnancy, birth and the weird, wonderful in-betweens. In this unfiltered and fun finale, Beth and Lilly talk through everything from the practical to the personal, including: Can you have sex in labour? What’s a vulval varicosity?! Midwives vs obstetricians - who does what? Birth plans: yes or no? Is this discharge normal? And lots more! Pregnancy sleep is a whole thing, ...

Jul 06, 202531 min

E90: An Honest Look At Sleep - What's Working For Us

Let's talk baby sleep! This week we’re getting into the real-life stuff, - What baby sleep actually looks like in our homes? - How do we navigate naps? - How do we do bedtime routine? - What's the best way to get our babies to sleep? - What's great about our approach? What's hard? This one’s for any parent wondering if their “messy” sleep reality is still okay (it is). Helpful Links & Resources: Listen to our episode with Bree from Possums Clinic The Safe Sleep 7 – La Leche League Red Nose A...

Jul 01, 20251 hr

☎️ Call the Midwife: Safe Exercise in Pregnancy

Can you keep exercising while pregnant? Short answer: yes - and it can be really good for you. Longer answer: this episode breaks down the how, why and what to look out for when it comes to moving your body safely during pregnancy. Whether you’re a Pilates Princess or a Cardio Queen, or just wondering if walking the dog counts (it does), this episode is your go-to guide for exercising safely, confidently, and intuitively while pregnant. Let’s be real - moving your body is important, but so is re...

Jun 29, 202513 min

E89: No one told me!? Motherhood edition

This week on Growing, we’re talking about the little things you figure out along the way, the funny moments that shock you at 3am. We opened the floor to you, our beautiful community, and your confessions, anecdotes, and “no one told me!” moments had us cackling and nodding in solidarity. Motherhood is full of surprises and often the best survival tips come from fellow mums, not a manual. We’re proud to be partnering with Once Upon, the easiest way to turn everyday chaos into beautiful photo boo...

Jun 24, 20251 hr 3 min

E88: What Your Midwife Wishes You Knew

The truths and tips midwives want every parent to hear. In this heartfelt (and hilarious) episode of Growing, we throw to our fellow midwives our “middy sisters” to share the things we wish more women knew. From body fluids and body hair to co-sleeping and safe sleep, from breastfeeding challenges to being loud in labour - we cover it all with no filter. Here’s the truth about midwives: - We don’t care if you’re loud in labour. - We want you to prepare for birth and postpartum - because both mat...

Jun 23, 202546 min

E83: How to Make Mother’s Day Feel Like Yours

Mother’s Day is this Sunday, and we know it can stir up a lot . Whether it brings joy, grief, pressure, or all of the above — we’re here to make sure you feel honoured, nourished, and seen. In this week’s episode of Growing , we’re diving into real, relatable, and restorative ways to spend the day. Whether you’re soaking up time with your kids, honouring your mum, connecting with chosen family, or spending the day solo — we’ve got ideas to help you feel full (not frazzled). From meaningful ritua...

Jun 23, 202523 min

☎️ Call the Midwife: Understanding Your Baby’s Movements in Pregnancy

Your baby’s movements are more than just special moments of connection, they’re a sign of their wellbeing. In this episode of Call the Midwife, we dive into what’s normal (and what’s not) when it comes to your baby's movement. We unpack: When you might expect those first flutters and kicks Why there’s no “perfect” number of movements to count How to tune into your baby’s unique pattern What to do (and what not to do) if you’re ever unsure Most importantly: If you ever feel like something is off,...

Jun 22, 20259 min

☎️ Call the Midwife: Routine Pregnancy Tests & Screenings

Pregnancy comes with a long list of new things - and routine blood tests and ultrasounds are high on that list. But what are they all actually for? In this short and sweet Call the Midwife episode, we break down the key routine tests offered throughout pregnancy, what they check for, and why they matter - minus the jargon and stress. We cover: First trimester bloods: What’s included and what they’re screening for Genetic screening options (like NIPT and combined first trimester screening) Iron, ...

Jun 15, 20258 min

E87: Vaginal Birth Non-Negotiables + Catch Up With Beth And Lilly!

In this episode of Growing, we unpack our top non-negotiables for vaginal birth from our experience as both Mothers and Midwives. We provide some midwifery insight on the essential knowledge, items and mindset shifts that help you step into labour and postpartum feeling supported, informed, and powerful. From evidence based quality birth education to pain relief tools and practical support, we discuss what can make a meaningful difference on the day. We also share our favourite postpartum must-h...

Jun 10, 202543 min

☎️ Call the Midwife: Pregnancy Aches & Pains

Growing a tiny human? Your body’s working overtime - and sometimes, it absolutely lets you know. This episode of Call the Midwife, our expert-led mini-series by Growing the Podcast, is all about the physical changes and discomforts of pregnancy. From the sharp twinges of round ligament pain to the deep pelvic pressure of Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD), we unpack what’s typical, what might need further support, and what can actually help. Why back pain, hip tightness, and rib discomfort are co...

Jun 08, 20257 min

E86: Weaning Feels: The Ups, Downs and Practical Tips

In this episode, Beth revisits her journey of weaning her eldest daughter, Poppy - something that many mums go through, but few talk about. Weaning isn’t just about dropping feeds. It can be a whole-body, whole-heart experience filled with hormonal shifts, emotional ups and downs, and often, a surprising sense of loss. Whether you’re thinking about weaning, in the thick of it, or supporting someone who is, this episode is here to offer insight and solidarity. Beth’s emotional and physical experi...

Jun 03, 202526 min

☎️ Call the Midwife: Safe Sleep in Pregnancy

Welcome back to Call the Midwife, a special mini-series from Growing - this mini series is your go-to shortcut to everything you should know about pregnancy. Whether you’re newly pregnant, in your third trimester, or just planning ahead, this series is here to guide you with warmth, evidence, and real-life insight. In this episode, we’re talking about something simple but so important: safe sleep during pregnancy . You’ve probably heard that sleeping on your side from 28 weeks is recommended - b...

Jun 01, 20256 min

E85: All the Ways to Nourish Your Baby - with Dr. Eliza Hannam

We know feeding your baby isn’t always straightforward. This week on Growing , Beth and Lilly are joined by Dr. Eliza Hannam - GP, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), Possums-accredited practitioner and founder of Nurtured Medical for a refreshingly honest and non-judgemental chat about all the ways to nourish your baby. Whether you’re breastfeeding, mixed feeding, bottle feeding or using formula, this episode is here to meet you with warmth, compassion and gentle guidanc...

May 27, 202549 min

☎️ Call the Midwife: Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy

Feeling queasy? You’re not alone. In this episode of Growing, we’re calling on our clinical midwifery insight and personal experiences to unpack everything you need to know about nausea and vomiting in pregnancy—from the common morning sickness to the more severe hyperemesis gravidarum. Firstly — we see you and we promise it gets better. Whether you’re newly pregnant or supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with practical advice, evidence-based strategies, and compassionate support. ...

May 25, 20258 min

E84: Glowing - Postpartum Style That Actually Works, with Kel King

This week on Growing , we’re glowing—literally and figuratively. We’re joined by Kel King—mother, photographer, and certified style queen—to unpack the realities of postpartum fashion and how to rebuild a wardrobe that works for you in this new season of motherhood. Head to our Instagram @growingthepodcast to see Kel’s exclusive wardrobe edits and grab your FREE ‘Mumma Style Guide shoppable PDF. This one’s for every Mother trying to feel like herself again—we hope it serves you the way it served...

May 20, 20251 hr 10 min

☎️ Call the Midwife: Common Red Flags in Pregnancy

Before we dive in, a big thank you to our series sponsor, Sleepybelly – the ultimate pregnancy pillow for bump and back support. More on that below! In this episode of Call the Midwife , Beth breaks down some of the most common red flags in pregnancy, helping you feel informed, empowered, and confident about your journey. Whether you're newly pregnant or well into your third trimester, knowing when to seek support can make all the difference. This episode is educational and supportive—but not a ...

May 18, 202511 min

E83: Systems that Serve: Simplifying Mum Life

In this episode of Growing, the girls get granular about the behind-the-scenes systems that keep their households—and their motherhood journeys—running (somewhat) smoothly . From meal preparation and grocery lists to weekly rhythms and go-to mental load hacks, this is your deep dive into creating flow, balance and breathing room in everyday mum life. Whether you're navigating newborn chaos or the school-age juggle, you'll walk away with fresh ideas and realistic inspiration to streamline your da...

May 13, 20251 hr 5 min

☎️ Call the Midwife: Public Vs Private Care

In this episode of Call the Midwife , Lilly dives into the topic: public or private care? From midwifery continuity and GP shared care to obstetric-led models, we break down your options in Australia’s maternity system—what they cost, how they work, and who they suit. Planning your pregnancy or already on the journey? We’ve got you. Tune in to get clear on your choices and feel confident in your next step. You’ll Hear About: Public vs private: what’s the real difference? Why midwifery continuity...

May 11, 20257 min

☎️ Call the Midwife: I’m Pregnant – What Next?

Welcome to Call The Midwife – a new mini-series by Growing. Your no-fluff guide to everything you really need to know about pregnancy, birth, and beyond. This season is proudly supported by Sleepybelly – the go-to pregnancy pillow helping thousands of Aussie mums sleep comfortably through every trimester. ☎️ Call the Midwife: I’m Pregnant – What Next? You’ve seen the two pink lines... now what? In this episode, Beth walks you through what happens after a positive pregnancy test – from booking yo...

May 04, 202512 min

E82: BONUS EP: Easter Break Chaos, Confessions & Car Trips

In this light-hearted bonus episode, Lilly and Beth catch up after the recent public holidays and share all the highs and lows of their mini getaways. From travel with kids to juggling Mum life while trying to relax, nothing is off-limits. Tune in for a fun chat about returning to exercise, finding glimmers of joy, and navigating those inevitable growing pains. Plus, Lilly shares a cheeky Aperol-spritz confession you won’t want to miss. Topics we cover: Travelling with little ones over the holid...

May 01, 202538 min

E81: Twins, NICU & Finding the Magic in the Mess — Roisin’s Real Motherhood Story

Beth and Lilly sit down with Roisin — a mum of three under three — to talk about her deeply personal journey through a high-risk twin pregnancy, the shock and solitude of NICU, and the stormy emotional terrain of early motherhood. This episode holds space for the messy, beautiful truth of navigating preterm labour, antenatal and postpartum mental health challenges, and the unique experience of raising twins while also parenting a toddler. This episode is a gentle reminder that even in the thicke...

Apr 29, 20251 hr 20 min

E80: But where Did My Libido Go? Sex, Intimacy & Motherhood with Jo Robertson

In this very real, and oh-so-needed conversation, Beth and Lilly sit down with Jo Robertson, renowned Sex and Relationship Therapist, for a deep and honest chat about sex, intimacy, and relationships in early motherhood. Whether you're in the thick of postpartum, navigating the emotional load of motherhood, or simply wondering “where the heck did my libido go?”, this episode is a balm for your heart—and your body. Jo shares powerful insights on: Why libido often vanishes after birth The truth ab...

Apr 22, 20251 hr 5 minSeason 2Ep. 16
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