The Baby Tribe

Parenting is a wild ride, filled with laughter, chaos, and more than a few surprises. Ever wondered if there's truly a "right" way to navigate the unpredictable journey of raising children? Join us for a special live recording of the Baby Tribe podcast, where hosts Afif, a seasoned paediatrician, and Anne, an accomplished obstetric anaesthetist, promise candid insights and humorous anecdotes. From their unexpected meeting during a late-night lock-in to the trials of parenting, their story is a testament to love's resilience and the unpredictable paths it can create. In this heartwarming episode, we unravel the mysteries of newborn sleep patterns and the seemingly chaotic needs of infants. While parenting books might promise solutions, Afif and Anne share their real-life experiences of adapting to their daughter's unique rhythms, emphasizing that following your child's cues can lead to more peace and less stress. They also explore the quirks of teenagers' sleep habits and how these changes impact family dynamics, stressing the importance of flexibility and understanding throughout the different stages of a child's life. Beyond the daily rollercoaster of parenting, we discuss the challenges of balancing work and family life, especially for mothers who often bear the brunt of societal expectations. There's a deep dive into the neurological differences in parental responses to a baby's cries, shedding light on the science behind our instincts. Additionally, the episode touches on the vital topic of social media influence and how to sift through the noise to find credible parenting information. With humour and honesty, Afif and Anne create a supportive community space where parents can feel connected and reassured, knowing they're not alone in their parenting adventures. Proudly Sponsored by: www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ranae von Meding, CEO of Equality for Children, shares her remarkable journey advocating for LGBTQ+ family rights in Ireland, rooted in her own experiences growing up in a religious household and facing personal health challenges. Her passionate fight for equality and legal recognition for LGBTQ+ families comes alive in our conversation, offering profound insights into the complexities of parenting within a same-sex relationship. Discover how Ranae's personal encounters with outdated laws and societal norms have shaped her mission, and learn about the progress and setbacks in achieving broader legal protections for LGBTQ+ families. We unravel the intricacies of reciprocal IVF, a fertility method that brought hope yet highlighted significant legal challenges for same-sex couples in Ireland. Ranae opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of navigating these obstacles and sheds light on the substantial changes in the legal landscape over recent years. From the Children and Family Relationships Act of 2015 to the ongoing hurdles and triumphs, this episode offers a candid portrayal of what it takes to achieve equal parental rights in a society still catching up with the needs of its diverse families. Additionally, we dive into the dual nature of advocacy work, exploring both the power and pitfalls of social media as a platform for change. Ranae reveals the emotional and psychological toll of fighting for human rights, both in the realm of LGBTQ+ issues and broader global concerns, such as advocating for Palestinians. Through her story, we envision an ideal Ireland—a place where all families, regardless of background or conception method, are recognized and protected. Whether you're navigating similar challenges or supporting the cause, this episode paints a vivid picture of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. You can reach Renae at: https://www.instagram.com/ranaevonmeding/ Proudly sponsored by: www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine adjusting to life in a new country while navigating the unpredictable waters of motherhood. That's the journey our guest, Alison Curtis, took on, bringing her Canadian warmth and insight to Ireland. As we chat with Alison, we explore her personal story—her encounter with pre-eclampsia, the unique hurdles of raising an only child, and her advocacy for extended breastfeeding. Motherhood often takes us on unexpected paths, challenging societal stereotypes and personal expectations along the way. Alison shares how she embraced the transformative experience of becoming a mother, even when it was not part of her original plan. Through her personal stories and expert perspectives, we explore the emotional aftermath of birth trauma and the joy of stepping into parenthood beyond societal norms. This episode offers a rich tapestry of reflections—from the psychological impact of birth experiences to the joys of bonding with a new baby. As we wrap up our conversation, we delve into the intricacies of modern parenting and the importance of building confidence and kindness in our children. Alison's hopes for her daughter, Joan, become a touching narrative of resilience and empathy. We also emphasize the profound connections formed through attachment parenting and the critical role support networks play in nurturing both parents and children. With stories that resonate and advice that empowers, this episode is a heartfelt look at the beautiful chaos of parenthood. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Baby Tribe, we discuss experiences related to birth trauma, which include references to sexual abuse. This content may be challenging for some listeners, especially those with similar lived experiences. If you or someone you know is affected by these issues, please consider reaching out to a trusted professional or support organization. Years ago, Michelle Flynn, a clinical psychotherapist specializing in maternal mental health, witnessed firsthand how birth trauma could transform a joyful moment into a complex emotional struggle. Her journey led her to explore the intricacies of birth trauma and how it deeply affects mothers and families. Join us as Michelle shares her personal insights and expertise, uncovering the layers of trauma that exist beyond the surface events. From the role of the autonomic nervous system to how trauma memories manifest physically, Michelle opens a path to understanding these profound experiences. Throughout the episode, we navigate the symptoms and causes of birth trauma, bringing to light the concept of "trauma time" and its impact on the nervous system. By differentiating between postnatal anxiety and PTSD, we provide clarity on effective treatments and the spectrum of trauma symptoms. We expand the conversation to include reproductive trauma across various stages, such as IVF and pregnancy loss. Michelle emphasizes the systemic factors that contribute to trauma, particularly for those with previous trauma or from minority backgrounds, urging for a more sensitive and informed healthcare approach.  Communication emerges as a pivotal theme, underscoring the importance of trauma-informed care in empowering patients and preventing avoidable trauma. Through personal stories and professional insights, we stress the need for systemic support for healthcare workers to foster resilience and empathy. By the episode's conclusion, listeners are reassured of the potential for healing through tailored interventions, including EMDR and somatic experiencing. This conversation is essential for anyone seeking to understand and support those affected by birth trauma, providing insights into effective coping and recovery strategies. You can reach Michelle at: https://ancroibeagpsychotherapy.ie/ Michelle's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ancroibeag/  Proudly Sponsored by: www.happytummy.ie Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices