The Birth in Focus Podcast

041 // Tandem Nursing: Four Kids Through 9 Years & Counting w/ Mallory Tutton

In this conversation, Samantha Tollison and Mallory Tutton discuss the challenges and experiences of postpartum life, particularly focusing on breastfeeding and tandem nursing. Mallory shares her journey of breastfeeding for over nine years and the logistics of nursing multiple children! Mallory has been nursing for 9 consecutive years, including through 3 pregnancies! She shared so much valuable wisdom and insight on how tandem nursing is not only possible, but truly beautiful and an extraordinary bonding experience, not only for herself but for the siblings who share her!   The Prego Expo is coming to Dallas!! August 23 + 24 🔗 Use code BABY20 for 20% off your tickets! https://aftontickets.com/event/tickets/38jynqqnx7/QkFCWTIw  [https://aftontickets.com/event/tickets/38jynqqnx7/QkFCWTIw]   Purchase the White Birth Pool of our dreams... 🔗 Earthside Birth Pools [https://www.earthsidebirthpools.com?sca_ref=8956226.ZCfVJ5MsUN]   FOLLOW MALLORY 👉🏼 https://www.instagram.com/midwifemallory/ [https://www.instagram.com/midwifemallory/]  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/]  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus [http://www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus]  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/]  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ [https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/]

040 // Pride in Perseverance: Carly's Fight to Breastfeed

In this episode, Carly Cole shares her breastfeeding journey, discussing her initial expectations, the challenges she faced, including tongue tie and latching issues, and the importance of finding the right support through lactation consultants. She reflects on her experiences with weaning, breastfeeding during pregnancy, and so much more. Carly emphasizes the rewards of breastfeeding despite the struggles and offers advice for new mothers, highlighting the significance of having a lactation consultant on standby. She also shares insights on breastfeeding in public, dietary challenges, and the emotional aspects of her journey. Keywords breastfeeding pain, lactation, tongue tie, parenting, motherhood, weaning, support, challenges, pregnancy, breastfeeding journey Takeaways - Carly was not familiar with breastfeeding before having her son. - She faced unexpected challenges with latching and pain during breastfeeding. - Finding the right lactation consultant was crucial for her success. - Carly's son had a tongue tie that complicated breastfeeding. - She used a nipple shield to help with latching issues. - Carly's husband was very supportive throughout her breastfeeding journey. - She plans to wean her son around his third birthday. - Breastfeeding has made Carly feel capable and strong as a mother. - Carly faced dietary challenges due to her son's allergies. - She encourages new moms to seek help and not isolate themselves. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Carly's Family and Background 02:07 Carly's Initial Thoughts on Breastfeeding 05:07 Challenges Faced in the Early Days of Breastfeeding 10:01 Navigating Tongue Tie and Lactation Consultants 11:59 The Journey of Nursing River 17:50 Weaning Process and Future Plans 20:49 Preparing for Baby Number Two and Lessons Learned 21:48 The Importance of Lactation Consultants 23:05 Cherished Breastfeeding Memories 24:25 Breastfeeding Challenges and Public Perception 27:10 Navigating Dietary Restrictions 29:05 Overcoming Early Struggles 31:17 Support Systems in Breastfeeding 32:08 Pride in Perseverance 33:40 Breastfeeding's Impact on Motherhood 34:59 Surprises in the Breastfeeding Journey 35:51 Advice for New Moms 37:01 Essential Tools for Breastfeeding 39:50 The Rewards of Breastfeeding Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/ Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/

039 // Cultural Changes Through Breastfeeding & Motherhood

In this conversation, Tracy shares her unique journey of motherhood and breastfeeding across different cultures, including South Africa, the UK, and the US. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of breastfeeding her three children, the importance of education and support, and the impact of moving countries on her breastfeeding experience. Tracy emphasizes the need for community and resources for new mothers, and reflects on the emotional and physical demands of breastfeeding. She offers valuable advice for expectant mothers and highlights the significance of being present for each feeding, regardless of the challenges faced. Key Takeaways | - Tracy's journey spans three countries and three children. - Breastfeeding is culturally accepted in South Africa and the UK. - Support systems for breastfeeding vary significantly by country. - Education before childbirth is crucial for breastfeeding success. - Breastfeeding can be challenging, even for experienced mothers. - Community support is vital for new mothers. - Tracy's experiences highlight the importance of managing expectations. - Breastfeeding journeys are unique to each child and mother. - Seeking help is essential when facing breastfeeding challenges. - Every drop of breast milk is valuable and meaningful. Keywords | breastfeeding, motherhood, cultural perspectives, parenting, lactation, support systems, community, postpartum, education, challenges.  Purchase Twinkle's Big Change TWINKLES BIG CHANGE [https://a.co/d/5mNWDzZ] Connect | Tracy Hammond - https://www.instagram.com/pitterpatter_doula/ [https://www.instagram.com/pitterpatter_doula/]  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/]  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus [http://www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus]  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/]  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ [https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/]

038 // Navigating Breastfeeding Firsts w/ Alexandria Fairbairn

In this episode, Alexandria Fairbairn shares her personal journey through breastfeeding, discussing the challenges she faced, the importance of prenatal lactation support, and her thoughts on tandem nursing while pregnant. She emphasizes the emotional connection breastfeeding provides and offers valuable advice for new mothers navigating their own breastfeeding journeys.   Takeaways Alexandria is a mother of two, with a 15-month-old daughter and another baby on the way. Breastfeeding was more challenging than she anticipated, especially with her first child. She experienced pain and difficulties due to her daughter's lip and tongue ties. Alexandria emphasizes the importance of prenatal lactation consultations to prepare for breastfeeding. She found support from lactation consultants and a community of mothers helpful during her journey. Sleep deprivation significantly impacted her mental health and breastfeeding experience. Alexandria considered weaning at times but ultimately chose to continue breastfeeding. She highlights the need for self-care and support from family and friends while breastfeeding. Alexandria encourages mothers to prioritize their mental health and not feel guilty about their choices. She is open to tandem nursing and values the connection it provides with her children. CONNECT | Alexandria Fairbairn - https://www.instagram.com/alexandria.fairbairn/ [https://www.instagram.com/alexandria.fairbairn/]  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/]  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus [http://www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus]  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/]  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ [https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/]

037 // Breastfeeding, Birth & Bonnie w/ Jessica Shirley

In this conversation, Jessica Shirley, mama of five, discusses her journey through motherhood, focusing on her experiences with birth, breastfeeding, and homesteading. Jessica shares her birth stories, the challenges she faced with breastfeeding, and the support she received from her family. We explore the emotional aspects of breastfeeding, the tools and accessories that helped her, and the importance of nutrition. The conversation also touches on the bond Jessica has developed with her dairy cow, Bonnie, and how they care for her as she provides for their family!  Keywords breastfeeding | birth stories | homesteading | parenting | motherhood | lactation support | emotional bonding | dairy cow | family support | postpartum nutrition Takeaways Jessica has five children and has experienced various birth methods. Her breastfeeding journey began with challenges but evolved into a strong bond. Support from her husband and family has been crucial in her breastfeeding experience. Each child's breastfeeding journey has been unique, with different challenges and successes. Nutrition is vital for breastfeeding mothers to maintain their health and energy. Jessica emphasizes the emotional connection that develops through breastfeeding. She has used lactation consultants for all her children to ensure successful breastfeeding. Public breastfeeding has become more comfortable for her over the years. Homesteading life has integrated with her breastfeeding journey, allowing for unique experiences. Jessica's bond with her dairy cow, Bonnie, reflects her nurturing nature as a mother. Book Recommendation from Jessica in the Episode - The First Forty Days [https://a.co/d/eHZNGnx] CONNECT | Jessica Shirley - https://www.instagram.com/jshirleyy_/ [https://www.instagram.com/jshirleyy_/]  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/ [https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/]  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus [http://www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus]  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/ [https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/]  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ [https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/]