Perinatal & Reproductive Perspectives

The Illness No One Warned Her About: Surviving Postpartum Psychosis

Thanks for stopping by! We'd love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442295/fan_mail/new] Aaisha Alvi is a writer and leading advocate for postpartum psychosis (PPP) awareness, and the author of A Mom Like That: A Memoir of Postpartum Psychosis. Her memoir has earned acclaim from reproductive mental health experts and organizations including Postpartum Support International (PSI), Action on Postpartum Psychosis (APP), and Library Journal. Drawing from her own harrowing experience navigating a broken system in search of care, Aaisha has made it her mission to expand public and provider understanding of postpartum psychosis — working to prevent the unnecessary suffering, misdiagnosis, and tragedy that too often accompany this illness. She speaks regularly to clinical, academic, and community audiences on the misdiagnosis of PPP, and serves as an active volunteer with PSI, where her educational materials are incorporated into the organization's professional trainings. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442295/support]

Perinatal Pleasure: Yes, We're Going There

Thanks for stopping by! We'd love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442295/fan_mail/new] Pleasure during pregnancy and after birth is one of the least talked-about parts of the perinatal experience—yet it’s something so many people quietly struggle to understand or reconnect with. In this episode, Jordin Wiggins opens up an honest, judgment-free conversation about pleasure, intimacy, and the physical and emotional shifts that happen before and after baby. From changing hormones and body image to discomfort, fear, and evolving relationship dynamics, we explore why pleasure can feel so different—and sometimes out of reach—during this season of life. Jordin shares practical insights and compassionate guidance to help normalize these experiences, reduce shame, and support a more connected, informed approach to your body and relationships. Whether you’re pregnant, postpartum, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers a refreshing, real look at what’s often left unsaid—and how to navigate it with confidence, curiosity, and care. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442295/support]

Beyond the Bounce-Back: Peter Lap on Postpartum Bodies

Thanks for stopping by! We'd love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442295/fan_mail/new] What really happens to your body after birth—and why don’t we talk about it more honestly? In this episode, we take a “Peter Lap” approach—slowing things down, taking it all in, and moving through the postpartum body with curiosity instead of judgment. From physical recovery and hormonal shifts to body image, identity, and the pressure to “bounce back,” this conversation creates space for the full, unfiltered reality. We explore what healing actually looks like (hint: it’s not linear), how to reconnect with your body after such a transformative experience, and why redefining strength and beauty postpartum matters. Whether you’re newly postpartum, years removed, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers grounded insight, reassurance, and a reminder that your body’s story deserves respect—not rush. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442295/support]

Birth, But Better: Kristin Revere on Doula Support

Thanks for stopping by! We'd love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442295/fan_mail/new] Kristin Revere is the founder and owner of Gold Coast Doulas in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is an elite certified birth and postpartum doula, newborn care specialist, and childbirth educator dedicated to supporting families through every stage of the parenting journey. Kristin is the co-author of Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby and the host of the Ask the Doulas podcast. She’s also a proud mom of two and a bonus mom to one, bringing both professional expertise and personal experience to her work. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442295/support]

Rewiring Motherhood: Emily Beecher on Navigating Parenthood as a Neurodivergent Mom

Thanks for stopping by! We'd love to hear from you. [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442295/fan_mail/new] In this episode, we explore the complex, beautiful, and often overwhelming transition into motherhood through a neurodivergent lens. Joined by guest Emily Beecher, we dive into the realities that don’t always make it into parenting books or social media feeds—sensory overload, shifting identity, emotional regulation, and the pressure to meet neurotypical expectations while honoring your own needs. Emily shares her personal journey into motherhood, offering candid reflections on what surprised her most, what challenged her deeply, and what ultimately helped her find her footing. Together, we unpack how neurodivergence can shape everything from bonding and routines to burnout and self-compassion. Whether you’re newly postpartum, preparing for motherhood, or navigating this transition in your own way, this conversation offers validation, insight, and practical strategies to help you feel less alone—and more empowered to define motherhood on your own terms. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2442295/support]