Today Trish is sharing her framework for rewiring birth thoughts and fears - because you are in control - sharing her framework for rewiring your thoughts for a positive birth experience. Birth is often filled with fear-based narratives, but it doesn’t have to be. Trish is breaking down the science of your thoughts and how it affects your birth.

Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cms

Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle!

Trish also reflects on how she approached her first birth without the proper mindset, blindly following hospital policies, leading to unnecessary interventions. Her goal is to inspire empowerment by educating expectant mamas on the importance of mindset and self-advocacy during childbirth. It's time to transform our birth culture into one of power and informed choices.

Helpful Timestamps:

• 00:00 The Science of Your Thoughts
• 07:39 Reflecting on Trish’s First Birth Experience
• 07:47 Following Hospital Protocols
• 07:57 The Need for Advocacy in Birth
• 08:13 Empowering Future Births

Resources:

Calm Labor Confident Birth Pod

🎙 FREE Birth Workshop: 3 Secrets to a Confident Birth! 🎙

Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now!

First Trimester Prep Pack

Second Trimester Prep Pack

Third Trimester Prep Pack

Listen to the Pregnancy Unpacked Series!

Connect w/ Trish:

On Instagram

On Facebook

On YouTube

On Pinterest

On TikTok

For more pregnancy & birth education, subscribe to The Birth Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Produced and Edited by Vaden Podcast Services

If you are ready to invest in your pregnancy & postpartum journey, you are in the right place. I would love to take your hand and support you in your virtual labor room!

If you are ready to dive into a birth class and have your best and most powerful birth story, then Calm Labor Confident Birth or The VBAC Lab is your next step.

If you have a scheduled cesarean, take our

Hey, beautiful mama! Welcome back to Pregnancy Unpacked. Trish is diving into the third trimester - weeks 26-28. Get ready for real talk about what’s happening with your body, your baby, and how to get prepared now. Plus, some powerful affirmations to keep you grounded. Grab your raspberry leaf tea, and let’s unpack it!

What’s Inside:

• Baby Update: Your little one’s the size of a cauliflower head (2-2.5 lbs, 14.5-15 inches), plumping up with brown fat, maturing lungs, and practicing those cute sucking motions.
• Your Body: From achy joints to heartburn, shortness of breath, Braxton Hicks, and swelling - Trish breaks down what’s normal and tips to ease the discomfort (think prenatal yoga, small meals, and hydration).
• Third Trimester Prep: Keep it simple - focus on a safe sleep space, diapers, and a few outfits. Start your hospital bag (check out labornursemama.com/third for a free checklist!) and talk birth preferences with your provider.
• Emotional Rollercoaster: Feeling anxious or grieving your old life? It’s all valid. Try balancing fears with gratitude (ex., “I’m scared of labor, but I’m so excited to meet my baby”).
• Importance of Birth Prep: Get prepared now mama! We want you walking into your birth calm and confident. Check out the Calm Labor Birth Pod (labornursemama.com/guide) or full birth classes (labornursemama.com/calm) for evidence-based education to rock your birth.
• Affirmations: You are strong, capable, and not alone. Write these down: “My body is strong. I trust myself. I am a birth queen.”

Helpful Timestamps:

• 00:57 Welcome Back Mama: Diving into Weeks 27 and 28
• 02:48 Third Trimester: What to Expect
• 03:59 Common Symptoms and Remedies
• 08:40 Preparing for Birth: Tips and Resources
• 12:07 Emotional Rollercoaster: Navigating Feelings
• 15:11 Birth Classes and Support
• 17:22 Birth Affirmations

More from Pregnancy Unpacked:

• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 24-26: 2nd Trimester Myths, Glucose Test, and Baby Growth | 182
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 22-24: The Juggle Is Real | 180
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 20-22: Halfway There, But Still In It | 178

Resources:

Calm Labor Confident Birth Pod

Amazon Shop for All Things Pregnancy & Postpartum

🎙 FREE Birth Workshop: 3 Secrets to a Confident Birth! 🎙

Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now!

First Trimester Prep Pack

Second Trimester Prep Pack

Third Trimester Prep Pack

Listen to the Pregnancy Unpacked Series!

Connect w/...

Trish sits down with the incredible Amber Ginn, an IBCLC and one of her beloved Catalyst Queen Mastermind clients. Amber shares her raw and powerful story of having her son at 15 and how this experience, and the support of one person, sparked her career in lactation.

Amber’s journey from becoming teen mom to breastfeeding expert is a testament to turning pain into purpose. She shares her pivotal birth experience, her work as a lactation consultant, and the invaluable support she provides to new moms.

Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cms

Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle!

They also discuss the importance of understanding your 'why' behind breastfeeding goals, the challenges new moms face, and the revolutionary care Amber offers through her private practice, The Latch Link. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation filled with empowerment, valuable insights, and a reminder that your story is your superpower!

More from Amber Ginn:

TheLatchLink.com

Listen to The Latch Lounge

Follow her on Instagram: @ambertheibclc

Prenatal Workshop

Helpful Timestamps:

• 01:26 Amber's Early Motherhood Journey
• 02:59 Turning Pain into Purpose
• 06:56 Amber's Professional Journey
• 08:39 Virtual Lactation Consulting
• 14:12 Breastfeeding Tips and Advice
• 19:57 Addressing Common Breastfeeding Challenges
• 22:47 The Importance of Pumping and Supply
• 23:28 Effective Pumping Strategies for Working Moms
• 25:47 Handling Bottle Refusal and Seeking Help
• 26:45 Comprehensive Lactation Support and Services
• 32:26 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Resources:

🎙 FREE Birth Workshop: 3 Secrets to a Confident Birth! 🎙

Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now!

Calm Labor Confident Birth Pod

First Trimester Prep Pack

Second Trimester Prep Pack

Third Trimester Prep Pack

Listen to the Pregnancy Unpacked Series!

Connect w/ Trish:

On Instagram

On Facebook

On YouTube

On Pinterest

Hey Mama! Welcome back to Pregnancy Unpacked for weeks 24-26 of your pregnancy journey. This episode is all about busting 2nd trimester myths, diving into what’s happening with your body and baby, and empowering you with the facts to trust yourself. Let’s unpack the real stuff.

What’s Happening with Baby

• Size Check: Your little one is about the size of an ear of corn - 13-14 inches long and close to 2 pounds!
• Big Developments: Baby’s building fat stores, fine-tuning hearing and touch, and growing stronger lung tissue. They’re practicing breathing movements, opening and closing their eyes, and even having hiccups (so cute).
• Brain Boost: Rapid brain development means more kicks, rolls, and jerky jumps. Keep an eye on those movements!

Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cms

Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle!

What’s Happening with You

• Shortness of Breath: Try deep breathing exercises or get on hands and knees with your booty in the air to ease it.
• Carpal Tunnel: Swollen wrists or tingling fingers? Elevate your hands, shake them out, or grab a wrist brace. Talk to your provider if it’s intense.
• Round Ligament Pain: Sharp pains in your lower belly? Move slowly, support your belly, or try a belly band and prenatal yoga.
• Leg Cramps: Stay hydrated, stretch calves before bed, and consider magnesium lotion or gummies (check with your provider).

Your Appointments

• Glucose Screening Test: Screens for gestational diabetes. Options include the glucola drink, Fresh Test, or home blood sugar checks. Mama, it is not your fault if you test positive - it’s hormones, not your diet.

Helpful Timestamps:

• 00:59 Weeks 24-26: What to Expect
• 01:55 Baby's Development: Weeks 24-26
• 03:18 Common Pregnancy Symptoms and Remedies
• 11:12 Debunking 2nd Trimester Pregnancy Myths
• 13:46 Emotional Well-being During Pregnancy
• 16:43 Important Appointments and Tests
• 26:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

More from this episode:

• Follow the Gestational Diabetes Nurse, Sara Alayev + Join her GDM Mama Membership
• Trish’s Amazon Shop for pregnancy pillows and second-trimester must-haves
• Listen to Second Trimester Pregnancy Testing | 165

More from Pregnancy Unpacked:

• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 22-24: The Juggle Is Real | 180
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 20-22: Halfway There, But Still In It | 178
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 18-20: Anatomy Scan & The Truth About Bonding | 176

Resources:

🎙 FREE

Trish gets into all things travel during pregnancy - whether you’re dreaming of a babymoon, heading out for work, or visiting family. Traveling while pregnant is a whole different ballgame, but don’t worry, Trish has got you covered with safety tips, airline and cruise policies, packing must-haves, and hacks to keep nausea and exhaustion at bay. Let’s make your journey as comfy and stress-free as possible!

Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cms

Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle!

What’s Inside:

• Is It Safe to Travel? Most pregnancies are good to go up to 36 weeks if uncomplicated, but always check with your doctor.
• Airline & Cruise Rules: Cruises often cut off at 24-28 weeks (shocking, right?) and may need a doctor’s note. Domestic flights usually allow travel up to 36 weeks, but international ones might stop at 28-32 weeks. Get a “fit to fly” note just in case, and call ahead!
• Fly or Drive? Flying’s faster with easy bathroom access, but security and tight spaces can be a drag. Driving gives you control and flexibility, but long sits can mean back pain and boredom. Pro tip: Stop every 1-2 hours to stretch, and wear compression socks to keep swelling and clot risks down.
• Nausea Hacks: If you’re dry-heaving at 30,000 feet (been there!), try acupressure wristbands, ginger chews, or peppermint oil to fight smells. Keep protein snacks like almonds or peanut butter crackers handy—low blood sugar makes nausea worse. And hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!
• Packing Essentials: Overpacking is self-love, mamas! Bring prenatal records (past 25 weeks), compression socks, a water bottle, snacks, a belly band, supportive shoes, and a lumbar pillow.
• Comfort Tips: On planes, snag an aisle seat to move every hour and use a foot sling. For cars, recline slightly with a cushion and crack the window for nausea. Keep seatbelts low across hips, not your bump.
• When NOT to Travel: High-risk conditions like placenta previa or preterm labor risk? Stay put. Bleeding, cramping, or less baby movement? Nope, don’t go. Far from good hospitals? Not worth it. Always talk to your provider if you’re unsure.

You don’t have to pause life because you’re pregnant - just plan smart! Pack snacks, stay hydrated, move often, and advocate for your comfort. You’re a superhero growing a human, so give yourself grace if travel feels harder than usual. Whether it’s a babymoon or a road trip to grandma’s, you’ve got this!

More from this episode:

• Third Trimester Prep Pack
• Staying Comfortable Traveling while Pregnant: What To Expect And How To Stay Safe
• Foot Sling for Air...

Hey Mama! Welcome back to Pregnancy Unpacked with Trish, your pregnancy bestie. We’re diving into weeks 22-24, where your baby’s hitting papaya size and your bump’s stealing the show! Trish breaks down baby’s big developments, your body’s changes, and the emotional weight of this in-between season. You’re carrying a lot, but you’re not alone - let’s unpack it together!

Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cms

Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle!

What’s Happening with Baby

• Size: Baby’s about the size of a papaya (~11-12 inches, ~1.5 pounds).
• Development: Lungs are producing surfactant, key for breathing at birth. Eyelids are opening, eyelashes are forming, and baby’s hearing is sharp—reacting to your voice or loud noises. Movements are getting stronger, with a unique rhythm starting to emerge.
• Cool Moment: Trish shares a sweet memory of her son Grayson startling during an ultrasound—proof of that magical connection!

What’s Happening with You

• Physical Changes: Your uterus is ~2 cm above your belly button, stretching ligaments and causing round ligament pain, lower back aches, or sciatica. Braxton Hicks might be noticeable (see Episode 105 for details). Shortness of breath, increased discharge (normal unless foul-smelling), and insane hunger are common.
• Digestive Issues: Bloating, gas, or reflux? Try papaya enzymes, stay hydrated, and eat balanced meals. Check with your provider for gas pain relief.
• Sleep Struggles: Feeling tired but not sleeping? Grab a pregnancy pillow (linked in Trish’s Amazon shop below).
• Emotional & Mental Load: Feeling resentful, touched out, or like you’re carrying it all? It’s normal. Have those hard convos with your partner or support system

Appointments & What to Expect

• Monthly provider visits include fundal height checks, Doppler heartbeat monitoring, blood pressure, urine tests, and swelling checks. Discuss cramps, movements, or preterm labor signs.
• If you have cramping, backaches, or pelvic pressure, your provider may run a fetal fibronectin test or refer you to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist. Always call for fluid leaks, bleeding, or intense pressure - you’re advocating, not annoying!

Action Steps for Weeks 22-24:

1. Prep questions for your next provider visit.
2. Track anything weird and call your provider if needed.
3. Observe baby’s movements - get curious, no formal kick counts yet.
4. Start your postpartum support plan (it’s not too early!).
5. Check in with your partner or support person about your emotional and physical needs.

You’re growing a human and showing up for life—that’s superhero stuff, mama!

More from this episode:

• Listen to Episode 105: Here’s How to Understand Real Labor vs False Labor Contractions
• Trish’s Amazon Shop for pregnancy pillows and second-trimester must-haves

More from Pregnancy Unpacked:

• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 20-22: Halfway There, But Still In It | 178

Trish is joined by Megan Heaton from The VBAC Link to discuss the common misconceptions, roadblocks and interventions that women face when attempting a VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean). They discuss ridiculous claims made by providers, heard straight from their own communities of mothers, such as the ‘impossibility’ of going into labor naturally, the supposed ‘necessity’ of epidurals, or your pelvis being ‘too small’.

Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cms

Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle!

Trish and Meagan emphasize the importance of patient education, partner support, and trusting the natural birthing process. They also discuss the coercive tactics some medical professionals use and provide empowering advice for navigating these challenges.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering or supporting someone through a VBAC journey.

Helpful Timestamps:

• 01:10 Welcoming Meagan from the VBAC Link
• 01:50 Ridiculous Roadblocks for VBAC
• 03:02 The Importance of Positioning During Labor
• 08:03 Epidurals and VBAC: Myths and Realities
• 10:38 The Impact of Fear and Safety on Labor
• 16:04 The Role of Partners in Supporting VBAC
• 18:59 Debunking Myths About Induction
• 21:01 The Reality of VBAC Risks and C-Section Complications
• 23:00 Confronting Medical Authority and Patient Rights
• 25:08 Navigating Hospital Policies and Patient Autonomy
• 26:07 Real-Life VBAC Stories and Hospital Challenges
• 28:31 The Importance of Patient Education and Advocacy
• 31:35 Debunking Myths About Induction and Labor
• 34:04 Conclusion and Resources for VBAC Moms

More from this episode:

National Advocates for Pregnant Women

More from Meagan Heaton:

Listen to The VBAC Link Podcast

TheVBACLink.com

Follow The VBAC Link on Instagram, YouTube, and FaceBook

Resources:

🎙 FREE Birth Workshop: 3 Secrets to a Confident Birth! 🎙

Want to feel prepared and in control? Watch my free workshop now!

Calm Labor Confident Birth Pod

First Trimester Prep Pack

Second Trimester Prep Pack

Third Trimester Prep Pack

Listen to the Pregnancy Unpacked Series!

Connect w/ Trish:

On Instagram

Hey Mama! Welcome to Pregnancy Unpacked with Trish, Labor Nurse Mama. In this episode, we’re diving into weeks 20-22 of pregnancy - the halfway mark! We’re unpacking what’s happening with your baby, your body, and those emotional shifts no one warns you about. From belly pops to Braxton Hicks, Trish is here to guide you through it all with real talk and big support. You’re not alone, and you’ve got this!

What’s Happening with Baby

• Size: Your little one is about the size of a banana (~10.5 inches, ~1 pound).
• Development: Taste buds are forming, baby’s tasting your meals through amniotic fluid, and hair, eyebrows, and lashes are sprouting. Their heartbeat is strong, and brain connections are helping control those tiny limbs.
• Cool Fact: Baby’s skin is coated in vernix caseosa, a protective creamy layer you’ll see at birth. Plus, they’re starting a sleep-wake cycle (which might not match yours!).

What’s Happening with You

• Physical Changes: Expect a sudden belly pop, round ligament pains, or painless Braxton Hicks contractions (check out Episode 105 for more on these vs. real labor). Constipation, back pain, or varicose veins might pop up too.
• Emotional Rollercoaster: Feeling off, disconnected, or guilty for not “glowing”? That’s normal. Pregnancy is a huge identity shift. Trish shares tips to process these feelings and lean on your support system.
• Stay Hydrated: Hydrate like crazy, mama! Water helps with constipation and keeps you out of triage.

Join the Calm Mama Membership: labornursemama.com/cms

Leave a review and include your Instagram username for a chance to win our monthly raffle!

Emotional & Relationship Real Talk

• It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, touched out, or out of sync with your partner. Communicate openly - weekly check-ins can build resilience.
• Single mamas, you deserve support too! Lean on friends, doulas, therapists, or join the Calm Mama Society for community.
• Try EFT tapping to ease anxiety and fear - Trish swears by it.

Anatomy Scan & Next Steps

• You’ve likely had (or will soon have) your anatomy scan. Celebrate clear results, don’t stress if baby needs a recheck, and ask questions if referred to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist.

5-Step Action Plan:

1. Write down anatomy scan questions.
2. Check in with your partner or support system about your emotions.
3. Start a list for your next appointment (pregnancy brain is real!).
4. Notice baby’s movements and enjoy them.
5. Protect your energy - write down what drains vs. restores you.

More from this episode:

• Here’s How to Understand Real Labor vs False Labor Contractions | 105
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 18-20: Anatomy Scan & The Truth About Bonding | 176
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 16-18: Baby Bumps, Tests, & Trusting Yourself | 174
• Pregnancy Unpacked Weeks 14-16: Building Your Birth Team & Trusting