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

E50: What does life *actually* look like with a newborn?

In this episode of Growing, host and midwife Beth Ryan takes you through what to expect during the first six weeks of your baby’s life. A must listen for any pregnant mum, Beth details what normal feeding and sleeping patterns can look like with a newborn baby, how each day may look different, ways to settle your newborn and strategies for helping you feel calm and rested during your early postpartum. This episode is brought to you by Tommee Tippee and their newest baby monitor which is availabl...

Jul 18, 202324 minSeason 1Ep. 50

BONUS: Dreaming of owning a business that gives you freedom, flexibility and purpose? Listen to this!

In this BONUS episode host Beth Ryan and special co-host Jen Butler take you behind the scenes of their new business launch, Build & Bloom. Jen and Beth have both pivoted from working in full-time clinical careers to owning thriving online businesses and now they are on a mission to help other women achieve the same level of freedom, flexibility and fulfilment that they do. If you are a mum who wants to explore a different way to work during this season of life, this episode is not to be mis...

Jul 16, 202320 min

E49: Motherhood, career pivots and life with Sophie Pearce

In this episode host Beth sits down with Sophie to discuss motherhood, career pivots and life as a mum to three girls. From medicine to motherhood to host of an award winning podcast Sophie shares generously about her experiences and how she strives to be a positive influence in the online space. This episode of Growing is brought to you by PowerBirth, a comprehensive childbirth education course developed by an experienced midwife and passionate childbirth educator. This course is specifically d...

Jul 11, 202357 minSeason 1Ep. 49

E48: What should I expect in the 48 hours after I give birth?

In this episode of Growing, host Beth Ryan takes you through what to expect in the first 48 hours after you give birth to your baby. This is an amazing listen for anyone journeying through pregnancy who wants a better understanding of the postpartum period. This episode discusses both vaginal and caesarean birth and touches on the topics including postpartum blood loss, pain management, breastfeeding and recovering from labour. This episode has been brought to you by BabyBee prams! Getting out a...

Jul 04, 202319 minSeason 1Ep. 48

E47: Behind the scenes of the biz! The transition from midwife to business owner

Are you considering a major career change? Curious about what it takes to run a successful online business? Join host Beth Ryan in this episode of "Growing" as she takes you behind the scenes of her journey from midwife to business owner. Beth's career transition has been lots of fun but certainly full of challenges, trial and error and lots of learning on the go. In preparation for this episode, Beth turned to her online Instagram community and asked them what they wanted to know about running ...

Jun 27, 202344 minSeason 1Ep. 47

E46: Practical strategies for a positive postpartum with biochemist, mum and doula Dr. Renee White

In this episode of Growing I sit down with Dr. Renee White, biochemist, mum and doula. Renee provides so much practical advice for parents preparing for parenthood including strategies for implementing support, tips on how to create respectful boundaries and how to genuinely take care of yourself in motherhood. Renee combines her qualification and experience of working as a biochemist to provide research-informed support and advice to new parents. I absolutely LOVED this chat and know that you w...

Jun 20, 202357 minSeason 1Ep. 46

E45: Playkits, parenting and paid work with Lovevery Co-Founder and CEO Jessica Rolph

In today’s episode I sit down with Jessica Rolph, mother of three, co-founder and CEO of Lovevery. Our chat is about so much more than the wonderful age-based playkits that Lovevery makes. Jessica and I talk about the dance between paid work and parenting, how to navigate those challenges and how the grass can always feel greener. I absolutely loved this chat and know that you will get so much out of it. Head to lovevery.com or follow Jess on Instagram @jessicarolph to learn more! Are you prepar...

Jun 13, 202330 minSeason 1Ep. 45

E44: Breastfeeding in the newborn stage with lactation consultant Susie Prout

Today we are joined by Susie Prout, midwife, lactation consultant and mum of three. Susie takes us through what to expect in the early days of breastfeeding including: Ways to prepare in pregnancy The moments after birth How often a newborn baby feeds How to support your breastmilk supply Why overnight breastfeeds are crucial for boosting milk protection And so much more. I love Susie’s modern, judgment free approach to breastfeeding support and if you are looking for more I highly recommend joi...

Jun 06, 202341 minSeason 1Ep. 44

E43: Millie's birth story part 2

In today’s episode of Growing we are joined by Millie as she shares with us the birth of her first baby, her daughter Tigerlily. Today we pick up where we left off in episode 42. Millie shares with us what it was like to realise she was going into labour, how she managed the earlier hours at home with her husband and what unfolded after arriving at the hospital in active labour.

May 30, 202350 minSeason 1Ep. 43

EP42: Millie’s birth story part 1

In today’s episode of Growing we are joined by Millie as she shares with us the birth of her first baby, her daughter Tigerlily. This story is an amazing listen! Millie shares generously about her experience being diagnosed with GD and the way she advocated for herself throughout her pregnancy, the many ways he and her husband Tom prepared for birth as a team and the challenge of waiting for labour to begin beyond 40 weeks gestation. Resource links: Australian Birth Stories Podcast Sophie Walker...

May 23, 202346 minSeason 1Ep. 42

E41: Birth trauma and becoming an advocate for change with midwife, mum and author Sharon Stoliar

Today on the podcast we are joined by Sharon Stoliar. Sharon is an Australian midwife, mother and author. Following a traumatic birth experience that left her with long-term health complications, Sharon became a fierce advocate for change and a voice for birthing women everywhere. Her book “ Scars of Gold ” details her journey from a harrowing postpartum, lengthy recovery and road to recognition in which she worked tirelessly to ensure her concerns were heard and systems were changed. sharonstol...

May 16, 202349 minSeason 1Ep. 41

E40: It’s playtime! Simple baby and toddler play with Erica Carew

Today on the podcast Beth is joined by Erica Carew, a mum and school teacher with a passion for creativity and play! Simple activities can have a profound impact on a child’s development and play can start from the moment they are born. In this episode, Erica shares with us: How to play with a newborn, beyond tummy time How we can utilize simple household items for creative play The many different ways ‘play’ can look. You can learn more about Erica and her wonderful resources at https://www.chr...

May 09, 202330 minSeason 1Ep. 40

E39: Navigating Relationships After Kids with Relationship and Parenting Coach Leonie Akhidenor

In today’s episode of Growing, host Beth Ryan is joined by relationship and parenting coach Leonie Akhidenor to discuss the challenges couples face in their relationships after having kids. Drawing on questions and concerns submitted by their online community, they explore topics such as the mental load, communication, lack of libido, resentment, and self-care. Leonie provides valuable insights on how to share the mental load, communicate effectively, and delegate tasks to create a more balanced...

May 02, 202346 minSeason 1Ep. 39

E38: Pumping 101 with Kate from Little Bird Lactation

In this episode of Growing we are joined by Kate. Kate is a registered nurse and internationally board certified lactation consultant. Having worked in both community paediatrics and the neonatal unit, Kate now runs an instagram page and private lactation support practice, Little Bird Lactation. In this episode we discuss: - Should you purchase a pump in pregnancy why/why not? - Reasons people commence pumping - Pumping pros / cons - Pumping equipment: What do you actually need? - Where to find ...

Apr 25, 202331 minSeason 1Ep. 38

E37: 3 things to that will help you remain calm and confident in labour

Labour can be intense! Sometimes we are shocked by the intensity of labour and can rapidly begin to spiral or panic. In today’s episode I share 3 of my favourite strategies for helping you keep calm and remain confident in labour. If you want to learn more about preparing for labour and birth, sign up to my birth course PowerBirth at www.powerbirthcourse.com.au A big thank you to today’s sponsor, Sleepybelly. It is no secret that getting comfortable in bed when you are pregnant becomes increasin...

Apr 18, 202310 minSeason 1Ep. 37

E36: Episiotomy: What is it? Should it be done routinely??

If you’re preparing to give birth, you might have heard the term ‘episiotomy’ and be wondering what on earth people are talking about. This episode breaks down what an episiotomy is and what the evidence has to say about use of the procedure in childbirth. A must listen if you’re expecting - As always, knowledge is power! This episode of Growing is made possible by one of my favourite resources for expectant parents, The Complete Australian Guide to Pregnancy and Birth written by Sophie Walker, ...

Apr 11, 202310 minSeason 1Ep. 36

E35: All things IRON with Melanie from The Natal Naturopath

In this episode I sit down with Melanie from The Natal Naturopath to chat about all things iron. Iron is always essential to our health, but in pregnancy maintaining adequate iron levels is paramount to good maternal and neonatal health. Despite this, so many women struggle with iron deficiency before, during and after pregnancy. With many mainstream iron supplements contributing to gut irritation, It can be hard to know what to do if the treatment plan that’s been recommended isn’t cutting it! ...

Apr 04, 202337 minSeason 1Ep. 35

E34: Toddler activities (that aren’t the park)

Let’s be honest, going to the park with your toddler can get boring. In this short but sweet episode I share three things we have been doing lately to fill our days together. If you are living the toddler life and are looking for inspo, you will love this episode.

Mar 28, 20236 minSeason 1Ep. 34

E33: The jump from one to two kids with Nikolina Kharoufeh

Today I chat with Nikolina a journalist, author and mum to two busy little boys Noah and Leo. We talk about the jump from one to two kids as well as Nikolina’s experience with surrendering to motherhood, letting go of expectations, learning on her feet and ultimately learning to laugh at the chaos that comes with a close age gap. I loved talking to Nikolina and I know you will get so much out of this episode, especially if you are planning to grow your family soon. You can find out more about Ni...

Mar 21, 202350 minSeason 1Ep. 33

E32: Stretch and sweeps: What to consider

In today’s episode, we chat about stretch and sweeps, also called ‘membrane sweeps’. You will learn: What they are When they are offered What the evidence suggests Some of the limitations of the practice Things to consider when it comes to timing and your headspace! I want to say a HUGE thank you for today’s sponsor LBDO. This episode of Growing is made possible by LBDO. LBDO is on a mission to break down taboos and stigmas around sex and pleasure and they do this through the creation of sexual ...

Mar 19, 202313 minSeason 1Ep. 32

E31: Birth story! Eliza, Ben and Baby Sullivan - Part 2

In this episode I chat to new Mum Eliza and share part 2 of her amazing birth story. This story had me nodding along with a giant smile on my face the whole time. I just know that there will be so many pearls of wisdom in there for anyone preparing to welcome their baby and so I’m excited for you to listen. Themes include: Intentional preparation for birth Mindset shifts Making peace with pain Open communication with your partner Hiring a doula and building your support team Positive postpartum ...

Mar 14, 202331 minSeason 1Ep. 31

E30: Birth story! Eliza, Ben and Baby Sullivan - Part 1

In this episode I chat to new Mum Eliza and share part 1 of her amazing birth story. This story had me nodding along with a giant smile on my face the whole time. I just know that there will be so many pearls of wisdom in there for anyone preparing to welcome their baby and so I’m excited for you to listen. Themes include: Intentional preparation for birth Mindset shifts Making peace with pain Open communication with your partner Hiring a doula and building your support team Positive postpartum ...

Mar 12, 20231 hr 1 minSeason 1Ep. 30

E29: How can non-birthing parents help in the postpartum period?

If you’re expecting a baby, and you’re not the one preparing to give birth you might be starting to consider what your role is in the newborn days. This episode is full of tips and tricks to support bonding and help partners to support the epic transition that is early motherhood. This episode is sponsored by Made to Milk. Made to Milk’s aim is to support mums to breastfeed with confidence by providing delicious lactation support products. From chunky home style cookies & brownies to decaden...

Mar 07, 202319 minSeason 1Ep. 29

E28: Flying solo: How to thrive when your partner is away

If you usually parent as a couple, it can be SO daunting to take on the task alone if your partner is away. But, over the course of parenting, this scenario is somewhat inevitable so in this episode I run through what I did to prepare for a short solo stint. If you want to learn more about Beth or say hi, follow her instagram @birthwithbeth_ or visit her website www.birthwithbeth.com.au

Mar 05, 202311 minSeason 1Ep. 28

E27: Breast engorgement…Ouch!

In the early days of breastfeeding, it’s common to experience overfull, tight breasts as your milk comes in and this can be so uncomfortable! In this episode I chat to you about how to avoid and soothe breast engorgement. A huge thank you to this episodes sponsor PAEDS Education PAEDS is an evidence based education service offering face-to-face and online baby and child first aid courses. Founded by paediatric intensive care nurses Grace and Sarah, PAEDS Education empowers parents with the essen...

Feb 28, 202311 minSeason 1Ep. 27

E26: Is this labour???

In this episode I step you through the tell-tale signs that labour is beginning and more importantly the reason why your midwife or doctor may encourage you to stay at home in the early phases on the birth process. A huge thank you to PowerBirth, my online childbirth preparation course for sponsoring todays episode. Powerbirth is a collection of the knowledge and skills I wish ALL parents had as before embarking on the journey of labour. The course steps you through the process of labour and bir...

Feb 26, 202310 minSeason 1Ep. 26

E25: Bye-bye boob - Our experience with weaning

Oh gosh, strap in! I didn’t realise how many lingering emotions I had on this topic until I hit record and started talking. In this episode I let you into our weaning experience, how I knew it was time, some of the strategies we used to get through it, how my daughter handled it and more importantly…How I got through the hormonal shift (hint: I cried a lot). My hope for this episode is that it helps anyone navigating this to feel seen and understood. Whether you are weaning after a day, a week o...

Feb 21, 202324 minSeason 1Ep. 25

E24: The newborn hearing screen with Crystal from Early Ears Education

Do you know that all newborns have their hearing tested within days of birth? In this episode we are joined by Crystal who is a clinical audiologist. Crystal explains the newborn hearing screen and answers some key questions for parents-to-be. This is such a great listen for anyone who is pregnant but also for parents of little ones as we also chat about where to get support if you are every concerned about your child’s hearing. If you would like to learn more about hearing health, Crystal’s ins...

Feb 19, 202323 minSeason 1Ep. 24

E23: What happens at a routine pregnancy check up?

This episode is a peek into what to expect at a routine pregnancy check up. I run you through: The frequency of routine visits What the goals of appointments are What you can do to feel prepared and take ownership of your education If you would like to feel prepared and excited for birth, check out my birth preparation course PowerBirth. You can learn more at www.birthwithbeth.com.au or follow me on my Instagram page @birthwithbeth_ to access heaps more education for birth and beyond. We also re...

Feb 14, 202310 minSeason 1Ep. 23

E22: A product to make breast pumps more comfy - yay! With Alex founder of Milkdrop

In this episode I chat with Alex, founder of Milkdrop, a company determined to make your breast pump experience just that little bit easier! In this chat we not only learn about Alex’s innovative pumping solution, we also dive into topics like, why are women often forgotten when it comes to health innovation? What impact does this have on our lives? What does it look like to run a flexible, parent-friendly workplace? Alex generously shares about her own breastfeeding experience and some of the c...

Feb 12, 20231 hrSeason 1Ep. 22
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