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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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The Science of Motherhood Podcast

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 week’s episode Dr. Renee White chats with Dr. Laura Gainche, Ph.D., a Family Sleep Educator, neuroscientist, and sleep scientist who is on a mission to help families turn sleepless nights into blissful ones. Through her Science for All Women platform, Dr. Laura uses science and connection to guide parents toward finding their unique way to parent at night.

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:

  • Learn to distinguish between normal spit-up and reflux.
  • Discover the truth behind common misconceptions about reflux.
  • Explore practical tips for managing symptoms and improving sleep and feeding.

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.

If you want to gobble up our famous Chocolate + Goji lactation cookies, look no further!

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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 discusses the top questions new parents often turn to Google for, covering everything from sleep routines and feeding tips to managing baby milestones. She offers simple and reliable answers to help parents navigate the early stages of parenting with more confidence. Tune in!

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.

In this episode, Renee discusses what your six-week postpartum checkup should really look like. Many new mums find their care drops off after giving birth, but this crucial period deserves more attention. Renee covers the key areas that should be addressed to ensure a healthy recovery and well-being. Tune in to discover the must-have elements for your postpartum 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 explores new research suggesting a link between low selenium levels in pregnant women and developmental traits in their children. She explains the crucial role selenium plays in the body and what this study's findings could mean for expecting mothers. The episode also provides practical tips on boosting selenium intake through diet and much more. Tune in!

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, Dr. Renee White sits down with Dr. Kyla Smith, a renowned expert in infant nutrition and founder of Baby Mealtimes, to discuss whether infants should be drinking cow’s milk from 6 months.

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 White, a third-time mom and experienced doula, shares her insights into preparing for childbirth and the postpartum period. Join her as she offers practical advice and personal anecdotes to help expecting mothers navigate this transformative journey with confidence and resilience. Explore the joys, challenges, and invaluable lessons of motherhood in this candid and relatable conversation.
In this episode, Renee White talks with science writer Lucy Jones about how having kids affects us in big ways. They look at it from different angles to understand its huge impact. Join them as they explore what it means to become a parent, sharing insights that everyone can understand. Tune in!

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!

In this episode, Renee explores a common question: What's the Difference between a Midwife and a Doula? Delving into their distinct roles, responsibilities, and contributions to childbirth, she sheds light on the unique support each provides.

Tune in to gain clarity on these essential birth companions and discover which might be the best fit for your birthing journey.

How does genetic testing before conception truly impact family planning? In this episode, Renee delves into the real-life experiences with a mama who underwent this process, uncovering valuable insights and lessons along the way.

Join us for an enlightening conversation on navigating genetic testing and preconception decisions. Tune in!

In this episode, Renee tackles the challenge of handling big emotions as children return to school. Offering a wealth of practical advice and book recommendations, she helps parents navigate this transitional period with ease.

Want to make the transition to school smoother for your child? Learn actionable tips for managing big emotions from Renee's experience. Tune in!

In this episode, Dr. Renee White explores groundbreaking research on Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), a challenging condition affecting pregnancies worldwide. She also sheds light on potential testing and interventions, offering hope to those grappling with HG.

Tune in for a captivating exploration of this significant discovery in women's health, and gain valuable insights for a healthier pregnancy journey.

In this episode, Renee white chats with Maisie Ruttan where they talk about how to navigate toddler sleep with a baby on the way. This conversation delves into the power of bedtime routines, challenges of toddler sleep, how to ensure a smooth transition for toddlers and so much more! 

Tune in for easy tips and insights on creating a peaceful bedtime atmosphere and navigating the exciting journey of growing families.

In this episode, Renee provides crucial insights into what you need to know about the first oral pill for Postpartum Depression. Delving into a groundbreaking development in mental health, Renee discusses the latest advancements in treating postpartum depression with the first-ever oral medication.

What could this breakthrough mean for the future of maternal mental health? Find out as we explore the potential impact and considerations surrounding the first oral pill for Postpartum Depression in this enlightening episode. Tune in!

In this episode, Renee engages in an insightful interview with Anya Durham on the topic of "Science-based Parenting." Anya, drawing from her expertise in ecology, discusses how she applied her scientific background to child development, exploring what babies need through the lens of her research field. The conversation sheds light on the intersection of science and parenting, offering a unique perspective on providing optimal care for infants.

Curious about applying scientific principles to child development? Discover how Anya's background in ecology led to the creation of "Baby Ecology" in this eye-opening interview with Renee.

In this episode, Renee reflects on her podcast journey, sharing the Top 10 Things she's learned in the past 100 episodes. Join her as she takes a trip down memory lane, offering insights and lessons from her diverse range of conversations. This special episode is a compilation of wisdom and experiences gained throughout the podcasting adventure.

What valuable nuggets of knowledge has Renee gathered along the way? Find out in this celebratory episode!

In this episode, Renee talks with Melanie Van Schelven about what can happen if you don't treat a tongue tie. They dispel common misconceptions, clarifying that while tongue ties pose risks, they don't guarantee speech issues. Melanie stresses the need for parents to make informed decisions. 

Wondering how treating a tongue tie can impact your child's well-being? Tune in!

In this episode, Renee addresses a crucial issue in women's health research funding, emphasizing the significance of initiatives like the one led by Alex from Milk Drop. As a seasoned mama who has experienced the discomfort of pumping firsthand, Renee discusses the transformative impact of such solutions on making pumping more enjoyable.

In this episode, Renee chats with Anya Dunham, delving into the complex dynamics of parental intuition. Together, they explore the concept of the "sixth sense," highlighting its significance in identifying potential concerns or distinctive qualities in a child. The episode goes deep into unraveling the layers of intuition, investigating how cultural influences play a role in shaping parental instincts. Tune in!

In this episode, Renee explores a recent healthcare breakthrough in Australia that's making waves. The Albanese government's new rebates for pregnancy-related genetic testing are making a big impact. Renee provides an insightful breakdown of this crucial development, empowering expectant parents with affordable genetic testing options. How might this impact the future of healthcare in Australia? Tune in!
In this episode, Renee chats with Jane McFadden about the complexities of being a mom with ADHD. They discuss the hurdles, the discoveries, and those little wins that make it all worthwhile. It's an episode that illuminates the journey of many moms, shedding light on both the tough and tender moments. Tune in!

In this episode, Renee delves into the heartwarming world of nesting parties, highlighting their rise as the modern alternative to traditional baby showers. By centering on the emotional and practical preparations for a baby's arrival, nesting parties offer a deeper connection and support system for expectant mothers, shifting the focus from presents to presence.

Ready to experience a more intimate and supportive celebration for expectant moms? See why nesting parties are capturing hearts everywhere!

In this episode, Renee dives deep into the realities of motherhood post-birth and the challenges of managing it on a tight budget. Drawing from her own experiences, she spotlights the essentials, from managing postpartum well-being to ensuring healthy infant sleep patterns, all while staying financially smart.

As Renee emphasizes the value of community, nutrition, relationships, and self-care, she offers an array of free and cost-effective resources to empower and support mothers during this transformative phase.

Need guidance on managing motherhood expenses without compromising quality care? This episode is packed with actionable tips and resources.

In this episode, Renee addresses a topic every expecting mother should consider: postpartum planning. She sheds light on the vulnerabilities mothers face after birth, from emotional ups and downs to physical exhaustion.

Renee offers invaluable advice, such as the significance of self-care and the need to plan for the unexpected. More than just preparing for birth, it's essential to think about life after the baby arrives. Curious about how you can prepare for life after birth?

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