Knowledge is power. Our aim is to unravel and interpret the latest research and evidence-based practices for pregnancy, postpartum and motherhood. As mums and researchers ourselves, we have experienced first-hand the overwhelming complexity of information, myths and old-wives tales. Even worse, 'advice' is being given to mums without the proper context or knowledge of their individual needs. So tune in to hear us ask experts, researchers and specialists about all things mother care, pregnancy, birth and postpartum.
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Screens are part of everyday life, but knowing how to manage them while protecting our kids’ mental health can feel like a constant challenge.
In this episode, Dr Renee White sits down with Professor Selena Bartlett, a neuroscientist, author, and mum who’s dedicated her career to making brain science practical for everyday families. Drawing on decades of research into neuroplasticity, stress, and mental health, Selena shares actionable tools to help parents manage screen time, nurture resilience, strengthen connection, and safeguard their children’s mental wellbeing in the digital age.
When it comes to preparing for postpartum, the spotlight often falls on the mum, as it should. But what about dads?
In this episode, Dr Renee White chats with Jason Seeman, fatherhood guide and founder of Raising Fathers, about how we can better prepare and support men through the transition into fatherhood. With a background in rites of passage, community leadership and over a decade of experience in men’s wellbeing, Jason brings practical tools to help partners feel confident, connected and ready for the realities of new parenthood.
Ever looked at your baby mid-meltdown and thought, “If only you could tell me what you need?” You’re not alone.
In this week’s episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr Renee White speaks with Megan Mahon, an early childhood intervention teacher, Auslan interpreter and founder of Baby Sign. More importantly, she’s a mum of two who knows what it’s like to want more connection, more calm and fewer communication breakdowns with your little one.
If you've ever felt like the postpartum experience caught you off guard, you're not alone. So many new mothers are left wondering, “Why didn’t anyone tell me it would be like this?”
In this episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr Renee White is joined by bestselling author, postpartum doula and mother of four, Jodi Wilson. Known for her honest, poetic reflections on motherhood, Jodi returns with her latest book co-authored by Sophie Walker (Australian Birth Stories), The Complete Guide to Postpartum, a practical, grounded and deeply reassuring resource for new mums, partners and support teams.
If you’ve ever wondered why birth support feels like a patchwork, with a different midwife at every appointment and no one on the same page, this episode is for you. It’s time we talk about why doulas are the missing piece in Australian maternity care and why every mother deserves more than just check-ups and rushed visits.
In this episode, Dr. Renee White unpacks the research, the numbers, and the real stories behind birth and postpartum care in Australia. She shares why doulas are not a luxury, but a vital part of a mother’s village, offering the steady, nurturing support that every family deserves.
What if being a good parent isn’t about doing more, but simply being present? In this week’s episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr. Renee White sits down with award-winning filmmaker Hailey Bartholomew to explore what it really means to show up for our kids and ourselves.
Hailey’s latest documentary, Seen, is a heartfelt reflection on parenting, presence and the stories we carry from our own childhoods. With powerful insights from voices like Maggie Dent, Lael Stone, Nathan Wallis, Vanessa Lapointe, Selena Bartlett and Billy Garvey, the film invites us to rethink how we connect with our children and what they actually need from us.
We hear it all the time “It takes a village to raise a child” but what happens when that village is nowhere to be found? What if your friends are too busy, your family is far away, or the support you thought you'd have just isn’t showing up?
In this episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr. Renee White responds to a listener who asked a very real, very relatable question, “How do I build a village when I can’t rely on anyone around me?”
Motherhood can shake your sense of self like nothing else. Whether you're battling imposter syndrome, perfectionism, or just feeling like you're not doing enough, this episode is your permission slip to slow down, soften, and reconnect with what confidence can truly feel like. Think steady, spacious and grounded in who you already are.
In this week’s episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr. Renee White chats with Fleur Chambers, internationally recognised mindfulness teacher, founder of The Happy Habit meditation app, and author of the new book Wholehearted Confidence. Fleur shares her wisdom on redefining confidence in a way that works for real mums in the real world.
If you’re expecting your first baby and feeling unsure about what kind of support you’ll actually need after birth, this episode is the gentle guide you’ve been looking for. You might have a loving partner, a helpful family, and a stack of baby books on the go… but still find yourself wondering, what's normal? Is this okay? Why didn’t anyone tell me about this part?
In this week’s episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr. Renee White chats all about what postpartum care really looks like for first-time parents. She unpacks the role of a postpartum doula, what support can look and feel like in those hazy early days, and why this kind of care is not just a ‘nice to have’, it’s necessary.
If you’ve ever been told that painful periods are just something you have to put up with, or you’ve found yourself spiralling down a Google rabbit hole trying to work out how endometriosis might affect your chances of falling pregnant… this one’s for you.
In this episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr Renee White sits down with Dr Kokum Jayasinghe, a highly awarded fertility specialist at Melbourne IVF who brings both deep clinical expertise and lived experience to the conversation. With over a decade of experience in reproductive medicine, plus her own personal fertility journey, Dr Kokum truly gets it.
We’re mixing things up this week with a special podcast take-over. Dr. Renee White steps into the guest seat in a heartfelt episode originally recorded for the Not Another Onesie miniseries. This conversation is one every mum needs to hear.
Renee joins Louise and Elisha, the co-founders of Not Another Onesie, for an honest and deeply personal chat about matrescence, identity shifts, and what really happens when you become a mother. Together, they explore the science behind the emotional and psychological changes, along with real-life insights from Renee’s own journey and the many women she supports through her doula work.
If you've ever wondered what it's really like to walk beside women through birth, to witness transformation in its rawest, most powerful form, then you're going to love this chat. It's for the mums who’ve felt unsure of their birth choices, those curious about home birth, or anyone who’s ever questioned the systems that hold us during pregnancy and labour.
In this episode, Dr. Renee White sits down with Oceane Campbell, midwife, mother, and author of Labor of Love, a breathtaking memoir about her journey into midwifery. With honesty, heart, and a touch of humour, Oceane shares what led her from a nomadic childhood to a career in supporting women through birth and everything she's learned along the way.
If you've had a caesarean birth or think you might, you’ll know just how much there is to think about, prepare for, and recover from. And let’s be honest, mama... it’s often not talked about in the same empowering way as other births. But knowledge is power, and this episode is here to give you just that.
In this personal solo episode, Dr. Renee White shares what she’d do differently if she had another caesarean birth. Renee reflects on her own experience with an elective c-section and offers insight into what can really help you feel informed, confident and cared for before, during and after surgery.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Do I really need a doula?” you’re not alone, mama. So many of us hear the word and think it’s just for a certain “type” of parent. But the truth is, a doula can offer the kind of steady, nurturing support that makes a huge difference during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
In this episode, Dr. Renee White walks us through the four types of people who benefit the most from having a doula by their side. Whether you’re a first-time mum, juggling multiple kids, navigating mental health challenges, or running a small business while caring for a newborn, this one’s for you.
Returning to work while still breastfeeding? You’re not alone mama, and you don’t have to figure it out on your own.
This transition can feel overwhelming, from wondering how you’ll pump at work, to whether your baby will take a bottle, to managing the emotions of this next chapter. But with the right support, strategies, and mindset, you can make it work in a way that suits you and your family.
Trying to conceive can be an emotional roller coaster. From tracking cycles to navigating fertility treatments, the whole process can feel overwhelming, especially when you're bombarded with advice, acronyms, and uncertainty. If you've ever wished for a clear, no-stress guide to fertility, this episode is for you.
This week, Dr. Renee White sits down with Dr. Cheryl Phua, a fertility specialist at IVF Australia, to break it all down in a way that makes sense. They chat about when to seek fertility support, what treatments like IUI, IVF, and ICSI actually involve, and how to take control of your reproductive health, without the confusion or pressure.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed in the kitchen or wondered how to balance feeding your family with the chaos of everyday life, this episode is for you!
In this week’s episode of The Science of Motherhood, Dr. Renee White is joined by the incredible Justine Schofield, MasterChef alum and author of Cook Ahead. Together, they dive into the world of family meals, freezer-friendly recipes, and the real-life journey of cooking while juggling motherhood.
Heading back to work after maternity leave is no small feat. It’s a time of juggling emotions, adjusting routines, and finding a new rhythm, and let’s be real, it can feel overwhelming. In this episode, Dr Renee White dives into what workplaces can do to support parents during this pivotal transition and how we, as parents, can advocate for what we need.
From flexible work options to creating a truly family-friendly culture, we’re exploring the small but powerful changes that can make all the difference for working mums and dads.
Motherhood is a whirlwind of emotions, and sometimes, despite our best intentions, the overwhelm takes over. Maybe it’s the relentless to-do list, the school holiday chaos, or just the weight of juggling everything, there comes a moment when we snap. And then? The guilt creeps in.
In this episode, Dr Renee White sits down to reflect on one of those raw parenting moments, the kind we don’t often talk about. Just two hours after an emotional outburst with her child, Renee recorded this to unpack the why, the how, and most importantly, the what’s next. If you’ve ever felt the sting of mum rage or the heaviness of guilt, this episode is for you.
The holidays are a magical time, but let’s be real if you’re a new or expectant mama, they can also feel overwhelming. Between unsolicited advice, endless gatherings, and everyone wanting to hold your baby, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. In this Check-In Tuesday episode, Dr. Renee White offers practical, empowering advice on setting boundaries so you can enjoy the holidays on your own terms.
Renee shares insights and strategies to help you navigate family dynamics, protect your energy, and prioritise your and your baby’s well-being. You’ll leave this episode feeling confident, prepared, and ready to say "no" when needed—without guilt.
Parenting can feel like a whirlwind, especially when your kids are testing boundaries and emotions are running high. In this week’s episode, Dr. Renee White sits down with Dr. Siobhan Kennedy-Costantini, a child development researcher and passionate advocate for parents, to discuss how we can approach parenting challenges with clarity, confidence, and compassion.
Siobhan, the creator of Science Minded and a mum herself, brings over a decade of experience studying children's social and cognitive development. She shares thoughtful, evidence-based strategies to help parents set boundaries that feel right for their families while supporting their children’s emotional growth.
This week, Dr. Renee White chats with Kelly Langford, founder of MAMA, Victoria’s largest private midwifery practice. They dive into the growing trend of private midwifery and how it’s giving families more choice, flexibility, and support during pregnancy and birth.
One exciting highlight? Recent legislative changes that are shaking up the midwifery landscape! These updates remove the need for private midwives to have a GP or hospital referral to access Medicare-supported services like writing prescriptions, ordering ultrasounds, and requesting blood tests. It’s a game-changer for mothers and midwives alike.
In this episode, Dr. Renee White chats with Alice Lucken, an IBCLC, nurse, and mother of three, who specialises in supporting families with unsettled babies. Together, they bust some common myths about reflux, providing clarity for parents who may be feeling overwhelmed.
Key Takeaways:
Tune in to hear Alice's expert insights and feel more confident in your parenting journey!
If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and share it with a friend who might be facing similar challenges. You can also explore Fill Your Cup for more resources, from nourishing lactation cookies to doula services designed to support you in every step of your motherhood journey.
Learn more about Dr Renee White and Explore Fill Your Cup Doula Services
Want to be nurtured and nourished after the birth of your baby, have a peek at our doula offerings.
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We hope you enjoy the episode, and as always, remember, you’ve got this!
In this episode, Dr. Renee White shares her top 4 must-read parenting books, including The Nurture Revolution by Dr. Greer Kirshenbaum. These books are packed with science-backed tips and insights into child development, helping parents navigate emotions and life’s big changes with ease.
If you’re looking for practical advice to better understand and support your child, this episode is full of helpful recommendations!
In this episode, Renee opens up about the profound journey of parenthood, sharing her personal experiences and the lessons she's learned along the way. She highlights the emotional rollercoaster that new parents often face, from overwhelming joy to moments of uncertainty.
Tune in to discover how you can better support the parents in your life and foster deeper connections that truly make a difference.
In this episode, Renee sits down with Dr. Elena Schneider-Futschik, a leading researcher in cystic fibrosis treatment. Dr. Schneider-Futschik shares groundbreaking insights into her latest research on treating cystic fibrosis in utero, offering hope for families and individuals affected by this genetic condition.
Listen in as they discuss the science behind these new advancements, the potential impact on future generations, and what this means for the future of cystic fibrosis treatment.
In this episode, Renee chats with Kate Johnstone to explore the crucial topic of finding self-compassion in motherhood. Kate shares her insights on the pressures many mothers face and how to navigate feelings of guilt, overwhelm, and perfectionism. She discusses practical strategies to cultivate kindness toward oneself and the importance of embracing imperfections on the journey through motherhood.
Tune in to discover how nurturing self-compassion can positively impact both you and your family.
In this episode, Renee reflects on her personal journey as a mother, marking seven years since the birth of her daughter. She shares the valuable lessons she's learned over the years, emphasizing the importance of surrendering to the unpredictable nature of motherhood, seeking support, and embracing shared experiences.
Drawing from both research and her own challenges, including her experience with postnatal anxiety, Renee discusses the four key pillars that help mothers thrive. Tune in to hear Renee’s candid insights and discover how these lessons might transform your own motherhood journey.
Are you planning to have a baby soon? In this episode, Renee dives into the crucial conversations couples should have before welcoming a new addition to their family. She shares practical advice and insights to help you build a strong foundation for your parenting journey.
Tune in to prepare for the exciting adventure of parenthood with this essential guide for future mums and dads.
In this episode of the Postpartum Revolution series, Renee chats with Avalon Nethery, founder of Borne.
Avalon, a certified Doula and mum of two, shares how her struggles with early motherhood inspired her to create Borne. Dedicated to making postpartum care a vital part of Australia's healthcare, Borne focuses on supporting and celebrating mums.
Avalon and Renee discuss the importance of postpartum care and envision a future where every Aussie mum gets the care she deserves. Tune in to hear how Borne is transforming maternal health for Australian mothers.
In this episode, Renee White talks about the New South Wales government's recommendations for improving mental health support for new parents, especially those affected by birth trauma. She highlights the need for extended psychological support, better postnatal care, enhanced physiotherapy, and comprehensive breastfeeding education.
Renee underscores the importance of continuity of care models and multidisciplinary support to help new parents navigate these challenges. Learn more about how these changes can make a significant difference and how you can support your loved ones. Tune in!
In this episode, Renee White shares relatable tips for alleviating Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) symptoms, inspired by recent HG Awareness Day events. She offers practical advice and announces exciting new in-person postpartum planning sessions in Hobart to support new parents.
In this episode, Dr. Renee White interviews Roxanne Wood on using nature to find your postpartum village. Roxanne shares valuable insights on finding your postpartum village, emphasizing the importance of seeking out like-minded individuals through activities you enjoy.
From guided mindful bush walk to connecting with nature, Roxanne's advice encourages listeners to step out of their comfort zones and initiate connections for a happier, more supported motherhood journey. Tune in!
In this episode, Dr. Renee White delves into the fascinating world of placental biology, exploring the creation of mini placentas in laboratory settings. With a focus on understanding pregnancy-related disorders, Renee highlights the potential of this groundbreaking research to revolutionize maternal-fetal health.
How might these mini placentas pave the way for innovative treatments? What implications could this research have for reducing maternal and fetal complications? Tune in!
In this episode, Renee White delves into the world of baby wearing and kanga training with Brooke Maree. Brooke shares her journey from anxious new motherhood to empowerment through baby wearing, leading her to become a kanga training instructor and ultimately founding her own baby wearing education platform.
Through personal anecdotes and insights, they explore the diverse world of baby carriers, dispelling myths and highlighting the importance of education and choice for parents navigating the joys and challenges of early parenthood.
In this episode, Renee delves into the concerning trend of unplanned pregnancies while using Ozempic, a GLP-1 medication primarily used for managing type 2 diabetes and weight loss.
With an influx of anecdotal evidence from social media platforms like TikTok, Renee explores the possible mechanisms behind this phenomenon, highlighting the need for further research and caution among users. Tune in to learn more!
In this episode, Renee interviews Dr. Marlena Fezjo about the groundbreaking discovery of what causes Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG). Dr. Fezjo shares her personal journey with HG, detailing her harrowing experiences during pregnancy and her determination to uncover its cause. From facing skepticism in the medical community to conducting years of research, Dr. Fezjo's story underscores the persistence and dedication required for scientific breakthroughs.
In this episode, Renee explores the significance of birth doulas and why they're becoming increasingly essential for expectant parents. With insightful statistics and real-life examples, Renee sheds light on the invaluable support and guidance that birth doulas offer during labor and delivery.
Tune in to learn more about the role of birth doulas and how they can positively impact your birthing experience.
In this episode, Renee White and Dr. Dave Listijono discuss the importance of preconception carrier screening for couples planning to have children. As an expert in obstetrics, gynecology with longstanding interest in Fertility and Advanced Laparoscopic Surgery, Dr. Dave explains why this proactive step is essential for ensuring the health of your family.
Join the conversation to learn valuable insights and make informed decisions as you prepare for parenthood. Tune in!
In this episode, Renee delves into the complex topic of whether expecting mothers should continue ADHD medication during pregnancy. Gain valuable insights and practical advice to help you make the best decision for you and your baby.
Discover how to navigate the journey of motherhood while managing ADHD, and unravel the nuances of prenatal care in this engaging episode. Tune in!
