Central Florida Birth Podcast

Ep. 21 From Puberty to Pregnancy: Normalizing Pelvic Health, Body Confidence, & Postpartum Healing

Guest: Dr. Kelly Frank Hosted by: Ana Munoz, LMT & Nicolle Maldonado, LM Runtime: 1:11:28 💬 Episode Summary In this episode, Ana and Nicolle sit down with pelvic health physical therapist Dr. Kelly Frank to unpack the stigmas surrounding pelvic health, postpartum recovery, periods, pelvic pain, and the pressure to “bounce back” after having a baby. Dr. Kelly shares how mental and physical health are deeply connected, why so many women silently suffer through pelvic pain and endometriosis, and how education and open conversations can completely change the way we care for our bodies. She also talks about her passion for supporting pregnant and postpartum moms, as well as her work with the Central Florida Postpartum Alliance, and her Class for Girls that teaches young girls about puberty. This episode is filled with honest, compassionate insight that will leave you feeling informed, validated, and empowered to advocate for your health and your healing. 🌟 In This Episode, We Cover: • The stigma around talking openly about pelvic health, periods, pain, and our bodies • Why postpartum recovery is about healing, not “bouncing back” • The powerful connection between mental health and physical health during pregnancy and postpartum • Pelvic pain, endometriosis, and why so many symptoms are often dismissed or normalized • How “A Class for Girls” creates safe, empowering conversations around bodily autonomy, menstrual health, and parent-child communication • Why education and support can transform the motherhood experience for families and providers alike 👑 Guest Bio Dr. Kelly Frank is a Pelvic Health Physical Therapist and the sole provider behind Frankly Pelvic [https://www.franklypelvic.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]. Supporting anyone with a pelvis at all stages of life, Dr. Kelly specializes in reducing pelvic pain, improving functional movement, and creating individualized treatment plans tailored to each client’s needs. She is especially passionate about helping pregnant and postpartum moms navigate one of the biggest transitions of their lives with confidence, education, and compassionate care. Dr. Kelly also teaches “A Class for Girls,” a monthly class focused on bodily autonomy, menstrual and pelvic health, and fostering deeper conversations between parents and daughters during changing years. 📲 Connect With Dr. Kelly Frank Instagram: @franklypelvic [https://www.instagram.com/franklypelvic?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Website: Frankly Pelvic [https://www.franklypelvic.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Central Florida Postpartum Alliance:Central Florida Postpartum Alliance [https://www.centralfloridapostpartumalliance.org/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] YouTube:Real Talk Mind Body Love YouTube Channel [http://www.youtube.com/@RealTalkMindBodyLove?utm_source=chatgpt.com] 💖 Loved this episode? Subscribe & leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more birthing folks and providers in Central Florida. Tag us on Instagram @centralflbirthpodcast [https://www.instagram.com/centralflbirthpodcast?utm_source=chatgpt.com] to let us know your favorite takeaway. Want to be featured or pitch a guest? DM us on Instagram

Ep. 20 Ana's Maternity Leave & Updated Release Schedule

Hosted by: Nicolle Maldonado, LM Runtime: 5:28 💬 Episode Summary In this episode, Nicolle shares exciting updates about the future of the Central Florida Birth Podcast as Ana prepares for maternity leave. While we’re all sending her love and well wishes, we’re also encouraging everyone to support her from a respectful distance as she transitions into this special season of motherhood. Nicolle also gives listeners a peek into what’s ahead for the podcast, upcoming episodes, and how local birth workers, parents, and professionals can apply to be featured as future guests. If you’ve ever wanted to share your birth story, expertise, or passion for the Central Florida birth community we would love to have you! 🌟 In This Episode, We Cover: Ana’s upcoming maternity leave and how the community can lovingly support her during this transition Exciting updates about future podcast episodes and what listeners can expect next An open invitation for birth workers, parents, and providers to apply as podcast guests The importance of continuing honest, empowering conversations around birth and postpartum in Central Florida 👑 Podcast Bio The Central Florida Birth Podcast is dedicated to amplifying stories, education, and resources that support birthing families and providers throughout the Central Florida community. Hosted by Ana Munoz, LMT and Nicolle Maldonado, LM, the podcast creates a welcoming space for meaningful conversations surrounding pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and holistic family care. Through authentic storytelling and straightforward insight, the podcast continues to connect and empower families across the region. 📲 Connect With Central Florida Birth Podcast Instagram: @centralfloridabirthpodcast Website: linktr.ee/centralfloridabirthpodcast Mind & Body Motherhood: https://www.mindandbodymotherhood.com/ [https://www.mindandbodymotherhood.com/] MOT Midwifery: https://motmidwifery.com/ [https://motmidwifery.com/] 💖 Loved this episode? Subscribe & leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more birthing folks and providers in Central Florida Tag us on Instagram @centralflbirthpodcast to let us know your favorite takeaway Want to be featured or pitch a guest? Visit linktr.ee/centralfloridabirthpodcast or send us a DM on Instagram

Ep. 19 Matrescence & Perinatal OCD: When Motherhood Changes Everything (And Why Support Matters)

Guest: Elena Sledge, Licensed Mental Health Counselor | Awaken Therapy Collective Hosted by: Ana Munoz, LMT & Nicolle Maldonado, LM Runtime: 54:08 💬 Episode Summary Motherhood transforms every part of life: your body, identity, relationships, and mental health. But many mothers experience these changes in silence, unsure if what they're feeling is normal or something they should seek support for. In this episode, licensed mental health counselor Elena Sledge of Awaken Therapy Collective joins us to talk about matrescence, the profound identity shift that happens when someone becomes a mother. We also dive into the often misunderstood topic of perinatal OCD, what it actually looks like, how it can show up differently for each person, and why so many mothers struggle without realizing what they're experiencing. Elena shares compassionate insights on how to recognize when extra support could help, especially for parents who have never sought mental health care before. If you've ever wondered whether what you're feeling is “normal,” or if you're carrying thoughts and worries that feel heavy or isolating, this conversation is here to remind you: you are not alone, and support is available. 🌟 In This Episode, We Cover: What matrescence really is: The emotional, psychological, and identity shifts that happen when someone becomes a mother and why this transition deserves more attention and support. Understanding perinatal OCD: What perinatal obsessive-compulsive disorder is, how intrusive thoughts can present during pregnancy and postpartum, and why experiences vary widely from person to person. When it might be time to seek support: How to recognize signs that additional support could be helpful, especially if you've never reached out for mental health care before. A powerful reminder for mothers: Struggling doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re human and navigating an enormous life transition. 👑 Guest Bio Elena Sledge is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and founder of Awaken Therapy Collective, where she supports individuals navigating pregnancy, postpartum, motherhood, and the many complex moments in between. As a mother herself, Elena understands the emotional highs and lows of the parenting journey. Her work focuses on helping mothers feel seen, supported, and cared for; because when we care for mothers, we care for families and entire communities. Her specialties include body image and eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety and depression during pregnancy and postpartum, and matrescence; the identity shifts and life adjustments that come with motherhood. Through a compassionate and holistic approach rooted in equity and inclusivity, Elena creates a safe space for clients to feel grounded, supported, and truly seen. 📲 Connect With Elena Sledge Instagram: @awakentherapyco Website: www.awakentherapyco.com [http://www.awakentherapyco.com] Helpful Resource Mentioned: Postpartum Support International (PSI) Website: www.postpartum.net [http://www.postpartum.net] Helpline: 1-800-944-4773 💖 Loved this episode? Subscribe & leave a review. It helps this podcast reach more birthing folks and providers in Central Florida. Tag us on Instagram @centralflbirthpodcast and let us know your favorite takeaway from the episode. Want to be featured or pitch a guest? Send us a DM on Instagram!

Ep. 18 Changing the Narrative on Pediatric Dentistry with Dr. Danielle

Guest: Danielle L. Recine, DDS – Pediatric Dentist & Founder of City Beautiful Pediatric Dentistry Hosted by: Ana Munoz & Nicolle Maldonado Runtime: 54:23 💬 Episode Summary In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Danielle Recine, a pediatric dentist and mom who’s redefining what compassionate, child-centered dental care looks like. From lip and tongue ties to teething, fluoride, and navigating sensory sensitivities, Dr. Danielle breaks down the essentials of early oral health in a way that feels encouraging and supportive. She also shares her personal journey as a parent navigating her own child’s diagnosis, and how that experience shaped her approach to care. 🌟 In This Episode, We Cover: - Lip and tongue tie releases (frenectomies) using CO₂ laser technology, what they are, when they’re needed, and how they help - Teething timelines, symptoms, and practical ways to support your baby through discomfort - Healthy oral habits for infants and toddlers, including when to start brushing and what to use - Fluoride: what parents need to know, common concerns, and how to make informed decisions - Working with children who are sensory-sensitive, anxious, or neurodivergent; and how to create positive dental experiences 👑 Guest Bio Dr. Danielle L. Recine is a board-certified pediatric dentist and the founder of City Beautiful Pediatric Dentistry in Orlando. With advanced training from NYU and Bellevue Hospital, she specializes in caring for children of all needs: from routine preventive care to complex medical and developmental cases. Her approach is deeply rooted in empathy, shaped not only by her clinical expertise but also by her personal experience as a mother navigating her own child’s oral health challenges. Dr. Danielle is passionate about creating a safe, supportive environment where every child feels respected and every parent feels heard. 📲 Connect With Danielle L. Recine Instagram: @citybeautifulpediatricdentist Website: citybeautifulpediatricdentistry.com 💖 Loved this episode? Subscribe & leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more birthing families and providers in Central Florida Tag us on Instagram @centralflbirthpodcast to let us know your favorite takeaway Want to be featured or pitch a guest? DM us

Ep. 17 What’s Common Isn’t Always Normal: Normalizing Pelvic Floor Health

Guest: Tori Butler, Doctor of Physical Therapy & Founder of Virgo Physical Therapy and Wellness Hosted by: Ana Munoz & Nicolle Maldonado Runtime: 1:18:11 💬 Episode Summary In this eye-opening conversation, we sit down with pelvic health expert Tori Butler to unpack the truths too many people aren’t told about their bodies. From the difference between what’s “common” and what’s actually “normal,” to the stigma surrounding pelvic floor health, this episode dives deep into the topics often left out of everyday conversations. Tori shares how stress shows up physically in the pelvic floor, why perineal massage matters, and how pelvic physical therapy can be a game-changer for both preparing for labor and healing postpartum conditions like diastasis recti. If you’ve ever felt unsure about what your body is experiencing, Tori's got the answers. 🌟 In This Episode, We Cover: What’s common vs. what’s actually normal when it comes to pelvic health The stigma around pelvic floor issues—and why it needs to change How stress impacts the pelvic floor and shows up physically in the body The role of perineal massage in birth prep How pelvic physical therapy supports labor preparation and healing diastasis recti 👑 Guest Bio Tori Butler is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and the founder of Virgo Physical Therapy and Wellness. After graduating from Northeastern University in 2019, she made her way to Florida and quickly realized her passion for helping individuals reconnect with their bodies—especially through pelvic health. Tori has pursued extensive continued education through leading pelvic health programs and mentors, blending clinical expertise with a holistic, patient-centered approach. Her mission is to empower clients with knowledge, confidence, and tools to support their healing, reduce stress, and return to the life they love feeling strong and supported. 📲 Connect With Tori Butler Instagram: @thevirgo_pt Website: www.virgophysicaltherapy.com [http://www.virgophysicaltherapy.com] 💖 Loved this episode?Subscribe & leave a review! It helps this podcast reach more birthing folks and providers in Central Florida Tag us on Instagram @centralflbirthpodcast to let us know your favorite takeaway Want to be featured or pitch a guest? DM us!