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Has navigating the world of parenting introduced a whole new set of challenges for you and your partner?

If so, you're not alone. Today, we dive into an insightful conversation with Rhona Berens, a professional certified coach and co-author of the book *"Fight Right for Your Baby"*. This comprehensive guide is designed to help expecting and new parents shift from conflict to connection, an essential aspect of co-parenting that is often underestimated.

Becoming a parent inevitably places stress on relationships. Rhona and her wife experienced firsthand the shock of how parenting impacted their relationship. Rhona's journey emphasized the importance of creating a "designed partnership alliance" to navigate the often tumultuous transition from being a couple to being parents.

One of the key topics discussed was the concept of fighting right versus fighting wrong. Rhona explained that fighting wrong involves unskillful, unproductive ways of disagreeing that pull couples apart. Drawing from John Gottman's research, she explains the four toxic communication styles: contempt, defensiveness, criticism, and stonewalling.

1. Contempt: Disrespectful communication including condescension, sarcasm, and eye-rolling.

2. Defensiveness: Reacting with a chip on your shoulder, refusing to see your part in the conflict.

3. Criticism: Blaming and nagging that turns issues into personal attacks.

4. Stonewalling: Becoming uncommunicative, walking away, or avoiding the conflict entirely.

Rhona emphasized the importance of becoming aware of these behaviors and working towards changing unproductive patterns. She encourages couples to recognize the impact of their communication on their children and to make a conscious effort to model healthier interaction.

Fighting is normal. It's not about never fighting but about how you fight and, more importantly, how you repair and reconnect after a conflict. Small moments of reconnection—like affirming words, a hug, or simply holding hands—can make a significant difference in maintaining a positive relationship dynamic in front of your children.

For parents approaching this monumental life change, Rhona’s insights and the tools in her book can serve as a valuable resource to navigate the complexities of new parenthood while maintaining a healthy, connected relationship with your partner.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 01:25 Rhona's Personal Journey to Becoming a Coach
• 04:30 The Impact of Parenting on Relationships
• 10:31 The Book: Fight Right for Your Baby
• 17:26 Understanding and Addressing Conflict in Relationships
• 35:35 Tips for New and Expecting Parents

Connect with Rhona

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/FightRightBooks/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonaberens/
• www.rhonaberens.com
• www.fightrightbooks.com
• https://rhonaberens.com/resources/
• https://rhonaberens.com/changing-habits/

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

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Are you looking for delicious, plant-based recipes that can help you recover postpartum?

In this episode, I’m joined by Chef Eduardo Justo. Eduardo brings a wealth of experience, having worked in some of the best restaurants in the world and now specializing in vegan and plant-based cuisine. Eduardo shares his journey, cooking philosophy, and two amazing recipes designed specifically for postpartum moms.

Eduardo shares the benefits of plant-based eating for recovery, as well as two nutritious recipes he created that are not only delicious but also supportive of postpartum recovery and nursing mothers. Using ingredients known as galactagogues—foods that help increase breast milk supply—he highlights the importance of these foods, emphasizing how they can aid in both recovery and milk production.

Our first recipe is a Lentil Fenugreek Stew, perfect for the fall season or any time you need a hearty, nourishing meal. The second recipe is a vibrant and nutritious Creamy Chickpea Beet Soup, packed with protein and vitamins.

Both recipes are designed to be simple and quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy postpartum moms. Remember, you can easily add your preferred protein like chicken, fish, or tofu to these dishes to suit your dietary needs. These recipes can also be made in large batches and frozen for later consumption.

Eduardo’s passion for plant-based cooking and his understanding of postpartum nutrition make these recipes a wonderful addition to any new mom’s meal rotation.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 02:55 Eduardo's Journey to Becoming a Chef
• 05:00 Eduardo's Vegan Transformation
• 06:44 The Importance of Galactagogues
• 08:59 Recipe 1: Lentil Fenugreek Stew
• 15:52 Recipe 2: Creamy Chickpea Beet Soup

Connect with Eduardo

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Vegancookingmastery/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@Vegancookingmastery
• www.chefeduardojusto.com

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/

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Are you wondering what it’s like to embark on the journey of motherhood later in life? Maybe you’re a new mother in her 40s, or thinking of having kids later on in life. In this episode, I have a profound conversation with Victoria Lauture Duncker from "New Mommy at 40." Victoria, a multifaceted artist, storyteller, and advocate, shared her inspiring journey of becoming a mother in her 40s and the incredible work she is doing to support women navigating similar paths.

Victoria’s journey to motherhood is both unique and inspiring. She started her career in musical theater and film, influenced by the powerful voices of women in her family. Despite her vibrant career, she always wondered when her journey to motherhood would begin. Victoria humorously shares her experience, noting the industry’s tendency to value youth, which led many of her colleagues to delay motherhood. At 40, she met her husband, and within a year, they were married and expecting their first child.

Her journey wasn’t without its challenges, including struggles with fibroids, PCOS, and fertility. Victoria was determined to break societal stigmas and advocate for herself and others. Through her experiences, she created the "New Mommy at 40" podcast to empower other women, share stories, and build a supportive community.

Victoria offers advice to women considering motherhood later in life:

1. Breathe and Manage Stress: Stress never helps, so it's crucial to find ways to relax and manage anxiety about the future.

2. Stay Informed: Understand your anatomy and reproductive health.

3. Explore Options: Consider cryopreservation and other fertility options to keep future possibilities open.

4. Seek Support: Build a support system of like-minded individuals who understand your journey.

5. Advocate for Yourself: Don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek the care you deserve.

We talk about:

• 00:00 Intro
• 04:01 Victoria's Journey to Motherhood
• 08:57 Creating the New Mommy at 40 Podcast
• 10:09 Challenges and Realities of Late Motherhood
• 12:12 Navigating Medical and Social Challenges
• 20:24 Insights and Advice for Aspiring Older Mothers
• 40:45 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

Connect with Victoria

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newmommyat40/
• Facebook: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtxX63UGUYNExwfk9GY9Kug
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtxX63UGUYNExwfk9GY9Kug
• Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/new-mommy-at-40
• www.newmommyat40.com

Connect with me

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholebundle/
• https://thewholebundle.com/