Explore every episode of the podcast First Time Mum's Chat

#204 - Sometimes the smallest moments reveal things we might otherwise miss. A simple walk in the garden with the twins became an unexpected opportunity to notice their growing independence, their very different personalities, and the quiet ways young children experience the world around them.

What might we discover about our children — and ourselves — when we stop trying to fill every moment and simply observe?

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/204.

#203 - Has your toddler started getting upset more quickly than before, leaving you wondering where these big emotions are coming from?

In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, Helen Thompson explores what's often happening beneath those sudden tears, frustrations, and emotional reactions that can seem to appear out of nowhere.

You'll discover why toddlers often struggle to make sense of big feelings, why they may sometimes push you away when they're upset, and why your calm presence matters more than having the perfect response.

If this stage has been feeling a little confusing lately, this episode will gently reassure you that you're not alone—and that what your little one needs most is often simpler than you think.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/203.

#202 - When your baby cries and nothing seems to work… it can feel overwhelming.

Have you ever stood there while your baby cries and suddenly felt completely overwhelmed — unsure what to do next?

In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, Helen Thompson explores why those moments can feel so intense in early motherhood and shares five powerful reminders that can help you pause, breathe, and reconnect with your baby.

Sometimes when a baby cries it can feel like something has gone wrong — but often what has disappeared in that moment is simply confidence, not the connection between you and your baby.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/202

#201 - You’ve probably said “calm down,” “you’re fine,” or “use your words” today — almost every parent has.

But what if these common phrases are actually making it harder for your child to feel safe, understood, and emotionally secure?

In this episode, Helen shares simple language shifts inspired by gentle parenting and positive parenting approaches that help babies and toddlers regulate emotions, build confidence, and cooperate more easily — without guilt or perfection.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/201.

#200 - What if calm isn’t something you need to create — but something that grows when you slow down and truly notice?

In this milestone 200th episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, Helen Thompson reflects on five years of podcasting, decades of childcare experience, and what she’s learned about babies, overwhelm, and the quiet pressure first-time mums carry.

Rather than doing more, this episode offers a gentle pause — a chance to reset, breathe, and reconnect with what really supports babies and the mums who care for them.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Why babies respond so differently to calm versus overwhelm
• How slowing down helps babies feel safe enough to be themselves
• Why “calm” is something babies grow into — not something they arrive with
• How acknowledging a baby’s feelings builds trust and emotional security
• A gentler rhythm for First Time Mum’s Chat as it moves forward

Helen also shares why she’s expanding the podcast into YouTube, and how this next chapter is focused on deeper connection, visual learning, and creating space — not noise.

Whether you’re listening while feeding, walking with the pram, or taking a quiet moment for yourself, this episode is a reminder that you don’t need to have it all figured out.

You are learning your baby.

You are finding your rhythm.

And you are doing enough.

🎧 Listen now and let this episode meet you where you are. Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/200.

#199 - Baby walkers, jumpers, and exersaucers are some of the most popular baby devices on the market — but are they really helping your little one learn to stand and walk, or could they be holding them back? In this episode, Helen Thompson breaks down the surprising truths many parents never hear about how these devices impact a baby’s hips, posture, balance, and overall development.

Drawing on more than 20 years of experience and her recent work with six-month-old twins, Helen gently explains why babies placed in upright positions before their bodies are ready often develop compensations like knee-locking, toe-walking, back-arching, and delayed milestones. You’ll hear why these devices aren’t “bad” — but why awareness matters, and how simple movements like rolling, wriggling, tummy time, and floor play build the strongest foundations for confident walking later on.

Whether you already use baby gear like jumpers or you’re thinking of buying one, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance to help you support your baby’s natural development in a safe and empowering way.

Helen also shares a special end-of-year update — including an exciting announcement about the upcoming 200th episode — and invites you to reflect on the key question of this episode: “Is my baby’s body truly ready for the positions these devices put them in?”

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/199.

#198 - If bedtime has started to feel stressful, tense, or full of tears (for you and your baby), you’re definitely not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 gentle soothing techniques that can help your baby feel safe, settle more easily, and relax into calmer, happier nights.

You’ll learn:

• How to read your baby’s cues so you can support them before overwhelm hits
• A simple jawline + toe reflexology routine to ease teething and tension
• How to use your breath and voice to help your baby regulate
• A calming back massage story that brings emotional grounding and connection
• Why your calm is the key ingredient — even when settling takes time

If you’re ready to bring a little more peace into your evenings and feel more confident soothing your baby, this episode will help you build rhythms that truly support both of you.

👉 Show notes: mybabymassage.net/podcast/198

If you’ve ever stood in a baby store aisle thinking, “Which stroller is actually right for me?” — you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing 7 smart questions that every first-time mum should ask before buying a baby stroller, so you can avoid the overwhelm and choose one that truly fits your lifestyle.

You’ll learn:

✅ How to find a stroller that matches your day-to-day routine — not just what looks good in the shop

✅ Simple ways to save money and skip costly “must-have” mistakes

✅ How to balance comfort, safety, and practicality without feeling pressured by trends

If you’re ready to feel confident about your stroller choice and enjoy those first walks with your baby feeling calm and stress-free, this episode will help you shop smarter and spend wiser.

👉 Check out the show notes at mybabymassage.net/podcast/197.

If you’ve ever stared at a baby shopping list wondering, “Do I really need all this?” — you’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing the 5 baby essentials I truly love and recommend for those first few months, plus the 4 popular items that usually just collect dust.

You’ll learn:

• How to simplify your shopping list without missing what matters most
• The key baby items that make daily life calmer and easier
• Common “must-haves” that end up forgotten after a few weeks

If you’re ready to save money, reduce clutter, and focus on what really helps you and your baby thrive, this episode will help you start small and stress less.

Check out the show notes at mybabymassage.net/podcast/196.

Discover three simple but powerful techniques that can transform your day-to-day with a newborn. In this episode, I talk with Hannah Eccles of Oscha Slings about how smart sling choices, safety tweaks, and wearing practices can calm fussiness, enhance bonding, and give you more freedom (yes, your hands back!).

You’ll learn:

• Which fabric types help regulate baby’s temperature
• How to use positioning to soothe reflux or unsettled moments
• Confidence-boosting tips for first-time mums just starting out

If you’ve ever wondered “Will a sling really help me survive the early days?”, this is your answer. Tune in and walk away with real, actionable hacks you can try today.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/195.

Are your white noise infant habits helping — or secretly wrecking sleep? I break down 5 costly mistakes with white noise sleep sounds and sound machines—and the quick fixes that make nights calmer, safer, and easier. Which one are you making?

You’ll learn:

• The safe volume & distance rule that protects little ears
• When to use white noise—and when to switch it off
• A gentle 7-night fade to reduce dependence without tears
• The sleep sounds that soothe (and the ones that disrupt)
• How to avoid timer-click wake-ups and midnight panic

If this helped, follow the show and share it with a tired mom — every play supports the podcast.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/194.

Should you use a dummy for your newborn — or is there a gentler way to soothe them? In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I’m exploring 7 shocking downsides of newborn dummies and sharing simple, calming alternatives that really work.

You’ll learn:

• Why over-reliance on dummies can delay self-soothing and even affect speech.
• How newborn dummies can become a habit that’s tricky to break later.
• Gentle, sensory-rich strategies — from music to baby massage — that help your baby feel safe and settled without depending on a dummy.

Whether you call it a dummy or a pacifier, you’ll discover practical tools to comfort your baby and build lasting connection right from the start.

👉 If you’ve ever wondered how to ease your infant without relying on dummies, this episode is packed with ideas to help you feel calmer and more confident.

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of First Time Mum’s Chat. For links and resources mentioned, check the show notes at mybabymassage.net/podcast/193.

Ever wondered how to nurture sibling love without the sibling rivalry—or the tears? In this heartwarming episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, we share 5 powerful, practical steps you can take today to foster bonding newborn and toddler… and yes, you’ll do it without tears!

We dive into:

• Creating a special helper role that makes your toddler feel big and important
• Establishing a comforting big sibling routine filled with predictability and fun
• Preparing them emotionally with engaging stories and baby-inclusive rituals
• Encouraging toddler-friendly bonding moments during baby care
• Celebrating their growing role and validating big emotions—without overwhelm

These positive steps for sibling bonding are gently explained, joyous, and especially designed for real-life family rhythms.

Whether you're desperate to ease toddler jealousy or simply seeking stress-free ways to bond your toddler with your infant, this episode is your roadmap to a loving, harmonious home.

Hit play to support your toddler in becoming the confident, caring big sibling they were born to be.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/192.

Feeling unsure about your feeding choices? You’re not alone. In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I share 5 pieces of infant feeding advice to help you let go of guilt and feel more confident — whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle feeding, combo feeding, or still figuring it out.

We’ll bust some of the most common and harmful myths about feeding your baby, including why “breastfeeding is natural so it should be easy” isn’t the whole story, and why flexibility in feeding is a strength, not a weakness. You’ll walk away with clarity, reassurance, and practical tips you can use right now.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• 5 infant feeding myths that cause unnecessary guilt
• Why both breast and bottle feeding can build deep bonds
• How to respond when pain or challenges arise
• The truth about switching feeding methods
• How to focus on presence, love, and connection over method

Whether you’re navigating newborn days or adjusting feeding routines, this episode will help you breathe easier and trust yourself more. Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/191.

#190 - Discover the real, sometimes brutal truths behind the breastfeeding journey:

• Why pain, guilt & exhaustion don’t mean you’re “doing it wrong”
• What cluster feeding does to your mind and body
• The hidden emotional toll few talk about
• Secret hacks that saved mum’s sanity 🍼

If you’ve ever wondered “Is breastfeeding supposed to hurt?”, this feels like a supportive chat with your best friend. Press play to learn what they never warned you—and find comfort, community & clarity. Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/190.

#189 - Feeling judged for how you're feeding your baby — or second-guessing every decision? You’re not alone.

In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I explore 5 common infant feeding difficulties that far too many mums face in silence — from painful breastfeeding and bottle-feeding guilt, to lack of support, emotional overwhelm, and the pressure to get it “right.”

You’ll hear:

• Why “fed is best” isn’t always enough to ease mum guilt
• What helped one mum finally feel relief after switching to formula
• How to push back against judgment (internal and external)
• Reassurance that your baby being nourished and loved is what matters most

Whether you’re breastfeeding, bottle feeding, doing both — or still figuring it out — this episode is a gentle reminder that your journey deserves compassion, not criticism.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/189.

#188 - Is your toddler out of control — throwing meltdowns, resisting transitions, or bouncing off the walls with no off switch? You're not alone, and there is a way through it that doesn’t involve yelling, bribing, or giving up.

In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I’m sharing 5 genius reset routines that help bring calm, connection, and cooperation back into your day. These are real tools I’ve used time and again in my years of childcare — from playful tidy-up dances to Brain Gym-style movements that soothe both overstimulated toddlers and frazzled mums.

You’ll hear personal stories, simple strategies, and why movement — not control — is often the key to shifting chaos into calm. Whether you're dealing with toddler tantrums, daily resistance, or just need a reset of your own, this episode is packed with ideas to help you both thrive.

🎧 Press play to discover how to turn meltdowns into moments of joy — using these 5 genius reset routines for toddlers.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/188.

#187 - Is your baby taking their first wobbly steps—or still hesitating to let go of your hand? In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, we explore what really helps babies move from unsure to unstoppable… without rushing them.

You’ll discover:

• 7 gentle strategies to encourage walking confidence
• Why rhythm and repetition work wonders for coordination
• When to step in—and when to lovingly let go
• How music and movement support emotional growth
• Real-life stories to reassure and inspire your parenting journey

Host Helen Thompson, baby massage instructor and early childhood educator, shares her personal experiences and practical tips to help you support your little one with calm, confidence, and connection.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/187.

#186 - Is your baby starting to pull up, cruise along furniture, or bounce to music? In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I explore how rhythm, song, and simple play can help your baby build balance and confidence—without rushing those big milestones.

I share one of my favorite nannying stories that shows just how magical movement and music can be in supporting your little one’s development. Whether they’re wobbling, swaying, or clapping mid-walk, these joyful moments matter.

🎶 Tune in to discover playful ways to support your baby’s next steps—with connection, rhythm, and calm. Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/186.

#185 - Is your baby showing signs of rolling over? Discover three simple, expert-backed techniques to support and encourage this vital developmental milestone.

From rhythmic play to gentle massage, learn how to make your baby's journey to rolling both fun and effective. Tune in now to empower your baby's growth with confidence! Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/185.

#184 - Struggling with tummy time? You're not alone.

In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, certified baby massage instructor and childcare educator Helen Thompson introduces the new series, "Move, Play, Grow," and shares 5 powerful ways to transform tummy time from a daily battle into a bonding experience that builds your baby's strength, confidence, and curiosity.

Learn why those tiny early movements matter more than you think—and how to nurture them with rhythm, connection, and joy.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/184.

#183 - In this eye-opening episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'm joined by parenting expert and podcast host Ann McKitrick to uncover the fascinating world of infant communication - from subtle cries and facial expressions to scent, gaze, and touch.

With 30+ years of experience in early childhood development, Ann brings heartfelt stories and practical insights that will shift the way you understand your baby’s needs.

💡 You’ll learn:

• What your baby’s gaze, grimace, and coos are telling you
• Why picking up your baby when they cry builds trust, not “spoiling”
• How a baby’s sense of smell deepens attachment
• Why singing the right song can soothe even the most distressed newborn
• What it truly means to “dance” in tune with your baby's cues

Whether you’re navigating sleepless nights or wondering how to connect more deeply with your little one, this episode will leave you feeling empowered, reassured, and seen.Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/183.

#182 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson welcomes Joss Goulden, a Level 2 Aware Parenting Instructor with over 30 years of experience supporting families.

They delve into understanding children's behaviors, emphasizing that actions like tantrums are often a child's way of communicating underlying needs and emotions.

Joss shares insights on interpreting these behaviors and offers strategies to respond with empathy and connection, aiming to foster a nurturing environment for both children and parents.

Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on nurturing your child's emotional well-being and enhancing your parenting journey.​ Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/182.

#181 - Ever wished your baby came with an instruction manual? While they might not have words yet, babies are amazing little communicators!

In this episode of First Time Mum’s Chat, I’ll help you decode your baby’s non-verbal cues so you can better understand their needs—before the crying starts.

You’ll discover:

✔ Early hunger signs (beyond crying!) that can make feeding time easier

✔ Subtle discomfort cues that signal gas, tiredness, or temperature changes

✔ How to use touch—like baby massage—to soothe and bond with your little one

I’ll also share real-life stories from my experience as a childcare educator and nanny to help you recognize and respond to your baby’s unique signals. Trust me, learning this “secret language” can make parenting feel so much easier!

🎧 Hit play and start tuning into your baby’s amazing ways of communicating!

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/181.

#180 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson delves into the nuances of infant communication, focusing on how to interpret your baby's various cries.

With her extensive background as a childcare educator and baby massage instructor, Helen offers practical insights to help you distinguish between cries signaling hunger, fatigue, or discomfort.

She emphasizes the importance of responding empathetically to these cues to foster a strong parent-child bond. Tune in to enhance your understanding of your baby's needs and strengthen your connection.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/180.

#179 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson delves into the challenges of toddler bedtime routines. Building upon insights from the previous episode on newborn sleep, Helen offers practical strategies to help your toddler recognize their own sleep cues and establish a peaceful, independent bedtime routine.

Tune in to transform bedtime struggles into a calming experience for both you and your child.

👉 Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/179.

#178 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson delves into the challenges of newborn sleep.

Drawing from her extensive experience as a childcare educator and baby massage instructor, Helen shares five essential strategies to help your baby—and you—get more restful nights.

Discover how to interpret your baby's unique sleep cues, establish a calming bedtime routine, and learn why baby massage can be a game-changer in promoting better sleep. Tune in to uncover practical tips that can make your parenting journey smoother and more enjoyable.

👉 Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/178.

In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson sits down with Lauren Dionysius, a former NICU nurse turned baby soul communicator, to explore the profound ways babies connect beyond traditional cues.

Discover how understanding your baby's energy and telepathic abilities can deepen your bond and enhance your parenting journey.

Are you ready to uncover the hidden wisdom your baby holds? Tune in to learn how to support your little one's unique path with insights that may transform your approach to motherhood.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/177

#176 - Welcoming a new baby into your family is an exciting journey, but what happens when you have a furry family member to consider too? In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, Helen Thompson chats with Aileen Cronin, a seasoned Canine Behavior Consultant and founder of Baby Pack Leader.

Aileen shares her expert advice on fostering safe and harmonious relationships between dogs and babies, drawn from over a decade of hands-on experience and her personal journey as a mother.

Listen now to gain confidence in managing this exciting transition and start fostering a stronger connection between your baby and your beloved pet! 🎧✨

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/176

#175 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'm chatting with Leanne Tran, a seasoned pediatric occupational therapist, to explore the early signs of ADHD and autism in infants.

We discuss how to distinguish between typical developmental behaviors and potential red flags, offering practical, non-medication strategies to support your baby's growth.

Leanne shares strategies and insights for creating a nurturing environment, such as observing patterns in a baby's preferences, adjusting routines, and understanding sensory sensitivities. Tune in to empower yourself with knowledge and confidence in your parenting journey.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/175.

#174 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, licensed mental health therapist Allison Ly shares her personal experiences as a second-generation immigrant and offers practical advice on setting boundaries as a new mum.

Discover how to navigate cultural expectations, manage family dynamics, and prioritize self-care to prevent burnout. Tune in to learn strategies for fostering healthy relationships with your parents and in-laws while confidently embracing your own parenting style.

Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/174.

#173 - Is your newborn's relentless crying leaving you feeling helpless?

In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, Helen Thompson, a seasoned childcare educator and baby massage instructor, delves into effective baby massage techniques designed to alleviate colic and soothe your little one.

Discover how gentle touch can transform fussy moments into peaceful bonding experiences, bringing comfort to both you and your baby. Plus, don't miss out on Helen's free guide, '4 Simple Ways to Soothe Your Colicky Baby,' offering practical tips to ease your baby's discomfort.

Tune in to learn how to bring tranquility back to your home. Check out the show notes at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/173.

#172 - In this episode, Dr. Tina Schermer Sellers joins First Time Mum's Chat to discuss sensitive but crucial conversations for moms with curious toddlers.

Learn how to approach questions like “How are babies made?” and teach body autonomy without fear. Dr. Tina shares insights from her work on raising shame-free, confident kids, helping parents foster healthy, open communication.

Don’t miss this episode packed with actionable tips for creating a positive legacy for your little ones.

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/172. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#171 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, host Helen Thompson interviews Garrett Wood Kusmierz, founder of Kozēkozē.

Garrett shares how her personal challenges with postpartum breast milk leakage led her to create a sustainable, absorbent bra that provides comfort and ease for breastfeeding mums. Learn how her innovative approach can help you manage common postpartum issues like engorgement and leakage.

If you're looking for practical, eco-friendly solutions to make your postpartum journey smoother, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in now for expert insights and Garrett’s inspiring story.

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/171. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#170 - Struggling to calm your baby or figure out their cues? You’re not alone!

In this special Q&A episode, I’ll reveal the secrets behind baby massage — a powerful way to soothe fussy babies, improve sleep, and boost bonding.

You’ll get answers to common questions like are there any specific techniques to soothe and calm my baby and the best times to massage your baby. Whether you're a first-time mum or experienced, these tips could be your game changer!

Hit play to learn techniques that will help your baby feel happier and more settled!

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/170. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#169 - In this special Q&A episode of First Time Mum's Chat, Helen Thompson dives into your most pressing questions about postpartum depression and anxiety. Drawing on wisdom from previous episodes, Helen shares powerful excerpts from past interviews with experts and real mums who have experienced the ups and downs of early motherhood.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

🌟 Expert Insights & Real Stories: Hear from mental health professionals and mums who’ve been there, as they share actionable tips and strategies to help you manage anxiety and depression during this challenging time.

🛑 Identifying Key Signs: Discover the difference between the baby blues and more serious conditions, and learn the crucial signs that it might be time to seek help—all through the voices of those who truly understand.

💬 Your Questions, Answered: get answers to your burning questions by revisiting the best advice from earlier episodes, giving you a clear roadmap to navigate the emotional rollercoaster of new motherhood.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or just need a bit of guidance, this episode is for you!

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/169. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#168 - I think it's fair to say that many of us spend too much time comparing ourselves to others, often coming up short! A lot of first time mums that I speak with face this issue and it's easy to go in a downward spiral isn't it, particularly when you're getting started in your parenting journey.

If you can relate to this, then you're going to find what Blanka Falk my guest in this episode has to say very interesting. Blanka is the host of the Renew Motherhood podcast and a mum of 4 located in Germany who faced her biggest challenge when child number 4 came along!

During our chat you'll hear us talk about:-

• The importance of going within and getting in touch with your intuition.
• The importance of being 100% present for your baby and how it will help deepen the bond between you for life.
• Being honest and allowing yourself to be vulnerable and accepting that you don't always have the answers.

And much more...

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/168. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#167 - In this episode, I'm talking with Sukie Baxter, an equestrian, entrepreneur, and healer who is deeply passionate about how we humans craft a vibrant and meaningful existence in our complex, imperfect world.

We talk about anxiety and I'm sure that you'll find her take on this topic very interesting. During our chat you'll hear us talk about:-

• How being with animals and spending time in nature can help relieve states of anxiety or stress.
• The importance of becoming self aware, developing your internal compass and being in tune with your surroundings.
• The importance of developing sensory skills and being attuned to your body.
• Why it is so important to encourage movement in your little one and to challenge society's norms.

And much more...

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/167. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#166 - In this episode, I'm bringing you the second of of two episodes with the amazing Austin Rees.

Austin has been supporting families for more than 20 years and has a wide repertoire as a craniosacral Therapy Practitioner, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, a Licensed Massage Therapist, Babywearing Educator, as well as a TummyTime! Method TM Professional..

Combining her expertise in lactation, babywearing, and craniosacral therapy, Austin is able to offer comprehensive care and support to families.

During this episode you'll hear Austin share tips from her vast experience specifically around how she helps families faced with flathead in infants or a misshapen head.

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/166. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#165 - In this episode. I'm chatting with author of the Bodywork Book Series, Susan Vaughan Kratz. Susan has 40 years of Occupational Therapy Experience and participates in clinical research of current innovative ways to assist her clients and families to overcome their difficulties. Her books offer real solutions that have helped real babies and real families and she routinely teaches these to parents seeking help with their little ones.

During our chat you'll hear Susan talk about issues including torticollis, umbilical cord issues, digestion issues including colic, reflux and constipation.

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/165. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#164 - In this episode, I'm chatting with Jess. Jess was so frustrated with a lot of the advice she received after becoming a first time mum that she decided to launch her own podcast to help support other mums!

During our chat you'll hear Jess talk about her experiences during her early stages as a first time mum including:-

• Her biggest frustrations when she commenced her parenting journey.
• Two books which helped her understand her little one better and learn about co-sleeping.
• How massaging her daughter helped relax her and relieve some tummy issues.

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/164. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#163 - In this episode, I'm bringing you the first of two episodes with the amazing Austin Rees.

Austin has been supporting families for more than 20 years and has a wide repertoire as a craniosacral Therapy Practitioner, an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, a Licensed Massage Therapist, Babywearing Educator, as well as a TummyTime! Method TM Professional..

Combining her expertise in lactation, babywearing, and craniosacral therapy, Austin is able to offer comprehensive care and support to families.

During this episode you'll hear Austin share tips from her vast experience specifically around how she helps families faced with infant tummy troubles and tummy time challenges.

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/163. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#162 - In this episode, I'm bringing you an amazing woman, Suzzie Vehrs, who is a doula and childbirth educator.

Suzzie is passionate about helping moms have a safe and healthy birth and she also helps mums after they return home, supporting them as they start to navigate their way through the world of parenting.

During our chat you'll hear Suzzie talk about:-

• How she helps families
• Why you shouldn't feel guilty or anxious reaching out for help and why it's so important to do so
• The importance of valuing and looking after yourself and ensuring you are getting the nutrients you need.

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/162. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#161 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat I'm doing something a little different, a question and answer (Q&A) session.

I'm regularly asked questions by mums who are getting started in their parenting journey and I've assembled a number of questions that I'm often asked and posed them to a number of mums, many of whom I've spoken with on the podcast in the past. There are also several mums that I'm chatting with in coming episodes.

During the episode, you'll hear questions and answers relating to topics including:-

• Sleep
• Tummy Time
• Getting started as a parent
• Potty training.

I hope to continue including regular Q&A episodes in the podcast, so please send me your questions!

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/161. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#160 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'm re-visiting the area of baby/toddler sleep and I'm thrilled to be chatting with mum of 3, Occupational Therapist, certified Family and Infant Sleep Specialist and podcast host, Heather Boyd.

Heather's baptism of fire with sleep challenges came with her eldest son, who had sleep challenges when he was a baby. Heather has worked with babies throughout her entire career as an occupational therapist, but she knew nothing about the sleep area and needed to work out how to support her son.

During our chat you'll hear Heather talk about her journey and how she helps tired parents support their baby's sleep without sleep training using a holistic approach.

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/160. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#159 - Just try to imagine for a moment commencing your parenting journey with 7 children aged less than 3 years of age to feed and look after! This is exactly what life delivered to this week's guest, Katie Ferraro!

Katie had been struggling with feeding her first child only to discover that she was pregnant expecting quadruplets. Not surprisingly, her immediate worry was how was she going to feed another 4 needy little ones when she was struggling with just one!

During our chat you'll hear Katie explain how she came across baby led weaning and utilized her background as a nutrition professor to develop her hundred first foods approach. You'll hear Katie share many great tips and insights during our interview including:-

• How a baby-led weaning approach will save you both money and time
• How baby-led weaning helps your baby to develop a foundational love of food
• Why snacks and too much milk are the biggest saboteurs of the toddler diet

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/159. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#158 - In this episode I'm chatting with birth healing specialist and pelvic health physical therapist, Lynn Schulte. Lynn is on a mission to improve postpartum care worldwide and her passion is in helping moms have smoother births and faster recoveries.

With more than 30 years experience, you'll hear Lynn talk about topics including:-

• What happens to the pelvic bones in order for a baby to be born and what keeps them from returning to their original position?
• How this affects the pelvic floor muscles?
• How can you strengthen your pelvic floor muscles after giving birth?

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/158. If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#157 - In this episode of First Time Mum's Chat, I'm chatting with Dr. Emily Guarnotta. Dr. Emily is a licensed clinical psychologist specialising in maternal mental health and will shortly be launching an online practice aiming to reduce the barriers that mums often face when looking for support and therapy in areas such as postpartum anxiety or depression.

During our chat you'll hear us talk about the challenges of returning to work after maternity leave, which is often a hard time of readjustment for mums.

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/157.If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#156 - In this episode, I'm bringing you an amazing woman, ThetaHealer and mother of one, Emily Miotto. Emily helps moms work on themselves to release any limiting beliefs around motherhood and to connect with their inner selves to trust their intuition and heal both themselves and their little ones!

During our chat, you'll hear Emily talk about:-

• Her postpartum depression journey and how understanding why she manifested it, helped break the cycle.
• Why your little one may be hypersensitive to everything happening around them and may have trouble sleeping.
• Why children coming into the world today are different and why moms need to do everything possible to support them as they grow up.

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/156.

If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.

#155 - In this episode, I'm chatting with Tessia Watson, the author of the international bestselling book, Rejuvenated Mums Make Happy Kids who shares her journey into parenthood.

Tessia is a big advocate for mums to create their support system to ensure they are well supported and to appreciate that "it takes a village to raise a child". The bottom line is that you can't do this journey alone!

Check out the show notes here at https://www.mybabymassage.net/podcast/155.

If you'd like to reach out and say hi, you can find @firsttimemumschat on Instagram.