Episodios

  • 179: Co-Planning Maternity Leave: Navigating Time Off & Partner Support for a Smooth Return to Work

    179: Co-Planning Maternity Leave: Navigating Time Off & Partner Support for a Smooth Return to Work
    Jun 10 2025
    Navigating maternity leave can be super confusing, and it often leaves expecting mothers feeling overwhelmed. You’re already juggling the demands of pregnancy, work, and planning for your baby. Now you have to plan for postpartum, too, and what life will really be like once your little one is here? You sure do! The problem is that many women assume their employer will guide the way. The truth? Maternity leave planning really falls on the expecting parents' shoulders. That’s why today’s episode is such an important one if you're expecting and planning on returning back to work after baby. In this episode, we’re diving deep into what it takes to co-plan your maternity leave with your partner, understand your legal rights, and return to work with confidence, while also setting realistic expectations with your partner. Whether you're expecting your first baby or preparing for your next, this episode will help you feel informed, prepared, and supported! Who is Daphne Delvaux? Today's incredible guest is Daphne Delvaux. Daphne is an award-winning employment attorney and the founder of Delvaux Law, the nation’s first and only law firm solely devoted to women’s rights at work. Known as The Mamattorney on social media, Daphne educates parents, especially mothers, on how to advocate for themselves in the workplace. After struggling to find accurate information about maternity leave during her own pregnancy, she made it her mission to make this vital knowledge widely accessible. Today, she’s breaking down what every working parent needs to know. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, Daphne and I dive into: Why Daphne became so passionate about protecting women’s rights at work How to start planning your maternity leave (and what to consider) How to understand and calculate your total paid leave Whether and how to negotiate better maternity leave terms Some key conversations you and your partner should have before baby arrives Partner rights for postpartum leave and how to combine time off Emotional and mental prep for returning to work Common challenges working parents face and how to overcome them Final Thoughts Maternity leave isn’t just a personal matter. It’s a legal, emotional, and logistical one. I'm so grateful for Daphne's time because she reminds us that we deserve to know our rights, to advocate for our needs, and to be supported, not just by our workplace but by our partner and community, too. Daphne shares the truth about what’s often left out of HR conversations and how we can shift the narrative around working motherhood. It's a fantastic episode, and we can't wait to have her back for part 2! So, if you’re currently expecting or already navigating your return, this episode is for you! Daphne's Resources Website: themamattorney.com Instagram: @themamattorney Facebook: @themamattorney Thank you for listening to our podcast. Cheers to a smooth maternity leave! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    52 m
  • 178: The Real “Bounce Back” – Rediscovering Your Strength and Identity After Baby

    178: The Real “Bounce Back” – Rediscovering Your Strength and Identity After Baby
    May 27 2025
    If you've recently had a baby (or even if it’s been a while), chances are you’ve heard some version of the phrase “bounce back.” Maybe you’ve seen it on social media. Maybe it came from a well-meaning friend, family member, or even your own inner voice. And maybe, like so many moms, that phrase made you pause and wonder: What exactly am I bouncing back to? In this episode of Chick Chat, I’m joined by Haley Wienke, a prenatal and postpartum fitness and nutrition coach, to unpack the real meaning behind the “bounce back” narrative. Spoiler alert: it's not about shrinking your body or erasing the evidence of motherhood. It’s about reclaiming your confidence, reconnecting with yourself, and redefining strength on your terms. Who is Haley Wienke? rmer version of yourself after baby. With over 15 years in the fitness industry and a personal postpartum journey of her own, Haley combines her professional background with real-life experience to help moms rebuild their strength, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally, too. As a mom to a food-loving little girl, Haley understands the balancing act of parenting, self-care, and staying grounded. Her goal? To help moms ditch guilt, stop the comparison game, and create routines that support long-term wellness and confidence. What Did We Discuss? This conversation was filled with honesty and so many lightbulb moments. Here’s a look at what Haley and I chick-chatted about: What inspired Haley to become a coach and advocate for postpartum wellness Why the “bounce back” culture is toxic — and how to change the narrative How Haley personally dealt with the pressure to bounce back after her own birth The truth about social media, comparison, and postpartum identity How to reconnect with the you beyond just “mom” Why confidence often takes a hit after childbirth — and how to rebuild it Simple, doable steps you can take today to feel more like yourself again The one powerful mindset shift Haley wants every mom to hear We also talked about the internal shift that so many mothers experience — the quiet but profound identity transition that happens after you become a parent. It’s not something we’re always prepared for, and it can leave you wondering who you are now that life looks completely different. Haley shares how she worked through that shift and how other moms can start to feel more grounded in who they are now, not who they were before baby. Final Thoughts Motherhood changes us. Sometimes subtly. Sometimes all at once. But the idea that we need to “bounce back” to who we were before — physically or emotionally — is outdated and unrealistic. You are allowed to become someone new because, let's be honest, you are someone new. You are allowed to take your time. And you are allowed to honor every part of the journey, not just the parts that look good in photos. This episode is for the mom who feels a little down and lost. The one who’s tired of the pressure, the expectations, the constant noise, and the one who's trying to find herself again. If that’s you, I hope this conversation reminds you that you’re not alone — and that your strength doesn’t lie in how fast you “get back,” but in how fully you show up for yourself today. Whether you’re newly postpartum or years into motherhood, know this: your worth was never tied to your body or how quickly you “got back” to anything. You’re allowed to define motherhood — and your postpartum journey — on your terms. Haley's Resources Website: Revive Instagram: @revive_wmn & @haley_wienke Facebook: @revivewmn TikTok: @halwink_fit Thank you for being here and for continuing to show up for yourself. Cheers to bouncing back your way — with strength, grace, and self-love. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    57 m
  • 177: Yoga for Kids: Simple Ways to Teach Mindfulness & Emotional Resilience

    177: Yoga for Kids: Simple Ways to Teach Mindfulness & Emotional Resilience
    May 13 2025
    In today’s fast-paced, overstimulated world, kids are absorbing so much. They are seeing us overpack our schedules, rushing from one thing to the next, and are constantly "on." Many of us parents are wondering: how do we help our kids regulate their emotions, connect with their bodies, and stay grounded? I know that I certainly am. That’s why I’m so excited to share this conversation with Lauren Chaitoff, founder and chief visionary of Yogi Beans. In this episode of Chick Chat, Lauren and I dive into the benefits of yoga and mindfulness for kids, how parents can begin introducing it at home (even if you’ve never done yoga yourself!), and why practices like grounding, movement, and breathwork are so essential for emotional regulation. We also talk about how moms and dads can reconnect with their own inner calm and lead by example. Whether you’re a parent looking for mindful tools or just curious about where to start, this conversation is full of heart, hope, and helpful tips. Who is Lauren Chaitoff? Lauren Chaitoff is the founder and visionary behind Yogi Beans, a yoga and wellness technology company designed specifically for children. With a background in Pilates and a deep love for movement, Lauren’s path shifted after discovering yoga’s powerful mind-body-heart connection. Since founding Yogi Beans in 2007, she’s created a curriculum that inspires children to feel more grounded, emotionally connected, and authentically themselves. Lauren is a Northwestern University grad, wife, and mama to two “beans” — Vivienne and Juliette. She’s passionate about giving kids tools to manage their emotions and move through life with more confidence, compassion, and joy. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, Lauren and I chick-chat about: What made her fall in love with yoga, and how it changed her approach to wellness Why she was drawn to children’s yoga long before it became mainstream How yoga helps kids regulate emotions and feel more grounded Easy ways parents can introduce yoga at home (even as beginners!) Her favorite pose or exercise every child should try — and why Tips for making yoga fun and engaging for kids How the principles of grounding and presence translate into real-life tools for children Ways parents can model mindfulness and emotional regulation How adults can reconnect with their inner child through movement and stillness Micro-practices busy parents can do to weave mindfulness into daily life Her one big takeaway about the connection between yoga, parenting, and personal growth One of my favorite parts of this conversation was how approachable Lauren makes all of this feel. You don’t need to be a yogi, have a meditation app, or even own a mat to start these practices with your kids. What matters most is showing up with intention, curiosity, and a willingness to grow together. If you’re a parent craving more connection, calm, and emotional support (for you and your little ones), I hope this episode inspires you to try something new and discover the beauty of mindfulness — one breath, pose, or giggle at a time. I’m so grateful to Lauren for sharing her heart and wisdom with us today. And if this episode resonates with you, please send it to a fellow parent, share your thoughts with us on Instagram @thebabychickchat, and don’t forget to subscribe to Chick Chat: The Baby Chick Podcast. We’re here to support you with expert insight, real talk, and a whole lot of love. Lauren's Resources Website: yogibeans.com Instagram: @yogi_beans Facebook: @yogibeans Thank you for being here and for continuing to show up for yourself. Cheers to finding your calm in a world of chaos. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    46 m
  • 176: What to Expect During a C-Section (Part 2): Recovery, Stigma & Emotional Healing

    176: What to Expect During a C-Section (Part 2): Recovery, Stigma & Emotional Healing
    May 6 2025
    We are back with Dr. Jen Wagner and RN Bethany Scott continuing our conversation about C-sections! In Part 1 of our conversation, we talked all about what to expect before, during, and immediately after a C-section. But as we all know, the birth is just the beginning. In this episode of Chick Chat, Dr. Jen and RN Bethany from The C-Section Experience Podcast talk about what comes next: the healing, the emotions, and the realities of postpartum recovery after a cesarean birth. We dive into the stigma that still surrounds C-sections, why some moms feel like they “missed out” when their birth doesn’t go as planned, and what every woman deserves to hear before heading into the OR. This conversation is raw, honest, and so needed, because your birth story matters, and your healing matters, too. What Did We Discuss? In this second part of our series on what to expect during a C-section, we go deeper into: The stigma around C-sections: Why it exists and how to challenge it with compassion and truth How to emotionally process an unplanned or emergent C-section What healing looks like — beyond just the incision Reframing the narrative: You didn’t fail. You gave birth. Tips for supporting recovery, self-worth, and your identity as a new mom What every woman deserves to know before heading into the OR I’m so grateful to Jen and Bethany for joining me again and sharing such vulnerable, powerful insights. Whether your C-section was planned or emergent, joyful or complex — or all of the above — you are not alone. Your emotions are valid, your experience is real, and your story deserves to be honored. If this episode resonated with you, please share it with another mama who needs to hear it. And as always, tag us on Instagram @thebabychickchat and @thecsxpodcast — we’d love to hear your thoughts. Bethany + Jen's Resources Website: csxpodcast.com Instagram: @thecsxpodcast TikTok: @thecsxpodcast Thank you for being here and for continuing to show up for yourself. Cheers to empowered, supported cesarean births and to owning your story with pride! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    56 m
  • 175: What to Expect During a C-Section: Part 1

    175: What to Expect During a C-Section: Part 1
    Apr 29 2025
    Whether it’s scheduled or unexpected, I firmly believe that a cesarean birth is still a birth, and every mom deserves to feel informed, supported, and empowered through it. But the truth is, many women go into their C-sections feeling unprepared and unsure of what to expect during a C-section. That’s why I knew we needed to record this episode, and I found the perfect guests to help us do just that: Dr. Jen Wagner, a board-certified obstetric anesthesiologist, and Bethany Scott, a registered nurse, doula, and fellow C-section mom. We had such an incredible discussion that we ended up talking for hours! There was so much valuable information being shared that we decided to split it into two episodes, because we truly didn’t want to leave anything out. These kinds of honest conversations are exactly what we need to help shift the narrative around cesarean birth. Who are Bethany + Jen? Dr. Jen Wagner is a board-certified, fellowship-trained obstetric anesthesiologist with years of experience supporting women through labor and delivery, especially during C-sections. She’s not only a practicing physician but also an educator and advocate for integrating evidence-based medicine with patient-centered, trauma-informed care. After giving birth to her daughter via C-section in 2018 and her son via VBAC in 2020, Dr. Jen became even more passionate about improving the birth experience for others. Her dear friend and co-host, Bethany Scott, is also here to chick-chat with us. Bethany is a registered nurse, certified birth doula, and mom of three born via C-section — plus one angel baby. Her journey started in the fashion world, but after moving to New York City, she followed her true calling into women’s health. Bethany began as a doula, later transitioning to labor & delivery nursing and OB/GYN triage. Through her own powerful experiences with birth and postpartum, she recognized the lack of preparation resources specific to C-sections. She decided to create the kind of support she wished she had. Today, Bethany is passionate about helping women feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout birth and beyond. She and Dr. Jen now share their insights and perspectives through their podcast, The C-section Experience Podcast, which helps women prepare for and process their birth stories with more confidence and compassion. What Did We Discuss? In this part 1 episode, Dr. Jen, Bethany, and I chick-chat about what really happens before, during, and immediately after a C-section — whether it’s scheduled or unscheduled — and how to make the experience feel more like a birth and less like a procedure. It's essential for moms to understand what options are available to them every step of the way, and we feel like this episode does that. Final Thoughts I hope this part 1 episode gives you the information that you were looking for to prepare for the procedure and your birthing experience. Next week, we are going to dive into more of the postpartum experience and what you can expect. Bethany + Jen's Resources Website: csxpodcast.com Instagram: @thecsxpodcast TikTok: @thecsxpodcast Thank you for listening to our podcast. Cheers to an empowered & supported cesarean birth! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 h y 7 m
  • 174: Toddler Survival Guide: The Most Common Challenges Parents Face and the Best Techniques to Handle Them

    174: Toddler Survival Guide: The Most Common Challenges Parents Face and the Best Techniques to Handle Them
    Apr 22 2025
    Toddlerhood is often described as a rollercoaster, which, as a mother to two myself, I can see why. Riding those emotional highs and lows can be a lot, but luckily, if you're also riding the waves, you’re not alone. From epic meltdowns over the “wrong” snack to power struggles over everything from bedtime to toothbrushing, it’s a season filled with big feelings (from both the kids and the parents!). That's why we're excited about this episode of Chick Chat. I’m chatting with Laura Amies, also known as Nanny Amies, all about surviving toddlerhood. Who is Laura Amies? Laura Amies – aka Nanny Amies – has worked with hundreds of children across her 20-year career, both in nurseries and as a private nanny, and was the TV expert "toddler tamer" for Channel Five’s 'Toddlers Behaving (Very) Badly'. Laura has been supporting parents for the past 20 years. Offering a heartfelt approach to childcare and development within nurseries, schools, playgroups, family homes, and hotels worldwide. When it comes to children’s behavior, she believes there’s really nothing that she hasn’t seen. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, Laura and I chick-chat about all things toddlerhood. She shares what’s really behind common toddler behaviors, how to support your child through big emotions, and the best strategies to not just survive but thrive through raising your toddler. Whether you're in the thick of tantrums or just gearing up for this stage, this conversation will leave you feeling more informed, confident, and supported. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: Can you please share with us the most common challenges parents face during toddlerhood? How can parents best navigate these challenges? What are some common mistakes parents make when dealing with toddler tantrums, and how can they handle these situations more effectively? We’ve all heard people describe toddlerhood as the "terrible twos," the “threenager” stage and even the “fournados.” What are your thoughts when you hear these terms, and do you believe they are truly as terrible as people say? Emotional regulation is a huge milestone for children. How can we parents help our toddlers navigate big emotions like frustration, anger, or sadness? What do you see as the most pivotal moments of toddler development? What advice would you give to a first-time parent who’s about to experience the challenges of toddlerhood? Toddlerhood doesn’t have to feel like a battlefield. As Laura reminded us, these challenging moments are opportunities for connection, learning, and growth — for our children and for us as parents. With the right tools, realistic expectations, and a little perspective, you can feel more in control and less overwhelmed. If you’re navigating the toddler trenches right now, I hope this episode reassures you that what you’re experiencing is normal and that you’re not alone. Laura’s wisdom is a gift, and I’m so grateful she shared her practical, heartfelt strategies with us. Be sure to share this episode with a fellow parent who could use a little extra support during this season. We’re all in this together! Laura's Resources Website: lauranannyamies.co.uk Instagram: @nannyamies TikTok: @nannyamies Facebook: @nannyamies Book: The Toddler Survival Guide Thank you for listening to our podcast. Cheers to surviving toddlerhood! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    50 m
  • 173: Breaking Barriers: Addressing the Black Maternal Health Crisis

    173: Breaking Barriers: Addressing the Black Maternal Health Crisis
    Apr 15 2025
    As a doula and advocate for mothers, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is that every woman feels safe, seen, and supported throughout her pregnancy, birth, and postpartum journey. But the reality is, not all women are receiving the care they deserve — especially Black mothers. In fact, Black women in the United States are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women — a heartbreaking and unacceptable reality that demands action, awareness, and systemic change. That's why today's discussion is so important because we need to spread this message. I had the honor of speaking with Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell about the Black maternal health crisis. This discussion was full of passion and vulnerability where Dr. Bayo generously shared her personal birth story, the critical data we all need to know, and powerful, practical ways we can begin to create change. While I may not share this lived experience, I believe it’s my responsibility — as a woman, a mother, and a birth professional — to listen, learn, and use my platform to help protect and support every mother. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who cares about improving maternal care in our country and around the world. Who is Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell? Dr. Bayo, a family medicine physician and nationally recognized health equity advocate, is the founder and CEO of Beyond Clinical Walls, a platform that delivers credible health information through social media and podcasts. She’s also a powerful TEDx speaker, where her talk “Do No Harm” has garnered over 2 million views and sparked a nationwide conversation about the maternal health crisis. Dr. Bayo is a passionate advocate for improving healthcare inequalities, and her work as the medical director for urgent care clinics at Saint Mary's Health Network and her numerous leadership roles — including serving on the CDC Community and Public Engagement Workgroup and the Nevada Patient Protection Commission — have solidified her as a trailblazer in healthcare. If you’re an expectant mom, a healthcare provider, or simply someone who wants to be part of the solution, I hope this episode encourages you to listen more deeply, speak up more boldly, and advocate for better care for all mothers. Because every mom deserves to be protected, heard, and valued — no matter her race, background, or birth plan. Let’s continue to show up for one another and be part of the change our maternal healthcare system so desperately needs. Dr. Bayo's Resources Website: doctorbayo.com Instagram: @doctor.bayo TikTok: @doctor.bayo YouTube: @beyondclinicalwalls LinkedIn: @drbcw bsky: @doctor-bayo Tedx Talk: Do No Harm Podcast: Beyond Clinical Walls Thank you for listening to our podcast. Cheers to equal maternal rights and supportive care for all! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    53 m
  • 172: The Truth About "Mommy Makeovers"

    172: The Truth About "Mommy Makeovers"
    Apr 8 2025
    The term “mommy makeover” has gained popularity over the past decade or so, but what does it actually involve? And who is it the right choice for? In this episode of Chick Chat, I’m joined by renowned board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Thomas Francel to pull back the curtain on mommy makeovers and help us really understand what women need to consider. With over 30 years of surgical expertise and a passion for educating and empowering women, Dr. Francel shares what these procedures include, how to navigate the emotional and physical aspects of the journey, and more. Whether you're curious, considering a consult, or simply want to understand the facts before getting any plastic surgery done, this conversation is honest, eye-opening, and super helpful. Who is Dr. Thomas Francel? Dr. Thomas Francel is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has dedicated over 30 years to transforming lives through his surgical expertise. Dr. Francel has established a trusted private practice and a distinguished reputation in the field. His medical journey began with training at Harvard Surgical Services, followed by a specialization in plastic surgery at Johns Hopkins Hospital. As a sought-after speaker, he has presented at 20 national and international plastic surgery conferences. Dr. Francel gained national recognition when ABC’s 20/20 interviewed him about severe post-surgical infections, where his insights influenced best practices across the industry. His passion extends beyond the operating room, focusing on education, empowerment, and compassionate care for others. In his debut book, Exposing Bad Plastic Surgery, Dr. Francel demystifies the plastic surgery experience to protect consumers as they navigate their needs and options. What Did We Discuss? In this episode, I chat with Dr. Francel about plastic surgery post-baby, also called by many “Mommy Makeovers,” and what women really need to know. Here are several of the questions that we covered in our conversation: For our listeners who may not know, what exactly is a “mommy makeover,” and what does it entail? What are the most common procedures included in a mommy makeover? Are there benefits of combining multiple procedures in one surgery? If women want to breastfeed their babies, what should they consider if they are interested in getting breast implants or a lift? In your opinion, who is the ideal candidate for a mommy makeover? Are there specific factors to consider? Does every mom need a makeover? What is considered a realistic recovery, and when might a mom need a little help? In your opinion, how do societal views on motherhood and body image impact the decision to have a mommy makeover? I hope this episode gives you the information you need to explore what’s right for you — not based on societal pressure — because, as Dr. Francel said, “that shouldn't matter” — but on what makes you feel your best. Dr. Francel's Resources Website: drfrancel.com Instagram: @thomasfrancel Facebook: @Dr.ThomasJFrancel Book: Exposing Bad Plastic Surgery: And the Secrets to Avoiding It Thank you for listening to our podcast. Cheers to being informed and doing what's right for you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    59 m
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