Healthy As A Mother
Dr. Morgan MacDermott & Dr. Leah Gordon
Healthy as a Mother, the podcast for becoming and being a mother, with your cohosts Dr. Leah Gordon and Dr. Morgan MacDermott, two naturopathic doctors who get it. Each week we teach you how to be the healthiest mother you can be - from fertility and preconception, to pregnancy and birth prep, through postpartum and throughout motherhood - empowering you with the natural health guidance and education you’re not getting elsewhere, so you can confidently navigate the broken system at large. The real, the raw, the un-talked about.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 10, 2023 • 1h 14min
Dr. Morgan's Three Home Birth Stories | #19
In this episode, Dr. Morgan shares an honest and engaging look into her first three home birth stories and how those experiences are shaping her preparation for her fourth baby.Each birth was completely different and brought its own set of challenges, surprises, and lessons. From navigating a long and intense back labor, to experiencing an incredibly fast fetal ejection reflex birth, to having a balanced and empowering 12 hour water birth, Dr. Morgan walks us through what each experience taught her about trusting her body, adapting to the unexpected, and preparing both mentally and physically for birth.We also explore how her perspective on birth has evolved over time. She shares how she is approaching her fourth birth with more confidence, intention, and flexibility, including what she plans to do differently and what she is carrying forward from her previous experiences.This episode is full of real-life insight, encouragement, and relatable moments that will leave you feeling more prepared and inspired for your own birth journey. Whether you are planning a home birth, considering your options, or simply love hearing powerful birth stories, this conversation is for you.Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER
May 4, 2023 • 42min
'Just Relax' and the Wisdom Behind Fertility Energy | #18
Are you trying to conceive and tired of hearing people tell you to “just relax”? If so, you are not alone. This phrase is one of the most common and often most frustrating things women hear on their fertility journey. While it can feel dismissive and oversimplified, is there actually some truth behind it?In this episode, we unpack the real meaning behind the concept of “relaxing” when trying to conceive and explore whether stress truly plays a role in fertility. We dive into the emotional and physiological impact of chronic stress, how it can affect hormone balance, and why simply being told to relax is not a helpful or complete solution.We also introduce the concept of the fertility battery and fertility energy, offering a new way to think about how your body allocates resources for reproduction. This perspective can be incredibly empowering as you begin to understand how lifestyle, mindset, and nervous system regulation all play a role in optimizing fertility.If you have ever felt frustrated, overwhelmed, or misunderstood on your conception journey, this episode will give you a fresh, compassionate, and practical lens to approach fertility. This is a powerful conversation that may completely shift how you think about stress, energy, and your body’s readiness for pregnancy.Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER
Apr 26, 2023 • 55min
Developing a Birth Plan | #17
Creating a birth plan is one of the most empowering steps you can take during pregnancy, and in this episode, we break down exactly why it matters and how to do it well.Despite the stigma that birth plans are rigid or unrealistic, we explain how they actually serve as a powerful communication tool that helps you clarify your preferences, understand your options, and advocate for yourself during labor and delivery. This conversation explores both the practical and emotional aspects of birth planning, including how mindset, preparation, and flexibility all play a role in shaping your experience.We walk through the key components to consider when building your birth plan, from labor preferences and pain management options to common hospital interventions for both mom and baby. You will learn how to think through decisions around induction, monitoring, movement during labor, pushing positions, and immediate postpartum care for your newborn.We also discuss how to involve your partner or support team so everyone is aligned and confident in advocating for your wishes, even if things do not go exactly as planned. Because while birth plans are important, the ability to adapt with confidence and clarity is just as essential.Whether you are planning a home birth, hospital birth, or something in between, this episode will help you feel informed, supported, and prepared to approach your birth experience with intention.Resources From This Episode:Dr. Stuart Fischbein http://www.birthinginstincts.com/His podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birthing-instincts/id1552816683Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER
Apr 19, 2023 • 47min
Egg Quality: An Underrated Essential to Fertility Success | #16
Egg quality is one of the most important and often overlooked factors when it comes to fertility, conception, and maintaining a healthy pregnancy. In this episode, we dive deep into why egg quality matters far beyond just getting pregnant, including its impact on miscarriage risk and your child’s long-term health from infancy into adulthood.Eggs are the female equivalent of sperm, and together they form the foundation of new life. But not all eggs are created equal. We explore what actually determines egg quality, how it changes over time, and why it plays such a critical role in fertility outcomes.You will learn what influences egg health at a cellular level, including lifestyle, nutrition, environment, and stress, as well as how to begin improving egg quality in a way that feels sustainable and realistic. We also discuss the balance between optimizing your fertility and still living a joyful, fulfilling life without becoming overwhelmed by perfection.Whether you are just starting your fertility journey, actively trying to conceive, or looking to improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy, this episode will give you practical tools and a deeper understanding of how to support your body and your future baby.Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER
Mar 29, 2023 • 47min
Wanting to Want It: The Low-Down on Low Libido | #15
Low libido, or low sex drive, is one of the most common and least talked about challenges women face, yet so many are silently navigating it. In today’s episode, we open up the conversation around low libido and break down what is actually normal when it comes to sexual desire.We explore what low libido really means, how often people are “supposed” to want sex, and why that expectation can be misleading. From hormonal imbalances and stress to relationship dynamics, mental health, and physical discomfort, we unpack the many factors that can impact your desire for intimacy.If you have ever felt like you “want to want it, but don’t,” you are not alone. We dive into why that disconnect happens and what your body may be trying to communicate. This episode also offers practical, realistic strategies to help support and naturally boost your libido without pressure or shame.Whether you are navigating postpartum changes, hormonal shifts, or simply feeling disconnected from your desire, this conversation is designed to help you better understand your body, reconnect with your sexuality, and feel empowered in your journey.Grab a cup of tea, get cozy, and join us for an honest and supportive conversation about the truth behind low libido.Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER
Mar 22, 2023 • 40min
Mastitis and Clogged Ducts: What TO Do and What NOT To Do | #14
Mastitis is one of the most painful and frustrating challenges that can come with breastfeeding, but the good news is that care guidelines have evolved significantly and for the better. In this episode, we break down everything you need to know about mastitis using the most up-to-date, evidence-based approaches.We go far beyond the basics and walk you through how to identify the different types of mastitis, why that matters for treatment, and how to approach care in a way that actually supports healing rather than making things worse. You will learn what causes mastitis, how to prevent it from happening in the first place, and what to do if you find yourself dealing with recurrent or chronic cases.One of the most important parts of this conversation is understanding what to do and what NOT to do when symptoms arise. Many of the commonly recommended strategies are now outdated and may actually worsen inflammation or prolong recovery. We unpack these myths and replace them with practical, effective tools you can confidently use.This episode is especially meaningful as we share personal experience navigating recurrent mastitis and the lessons learned along the way, so you do not have to feel alone or confused if you are going through it.Whether you are currently breastfeeding, preparing for postpartum, or supporting someone who is, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to manage mastitis in a way that promotes healing and long-term breast health.Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER
Mar 15, 2023 • 49min
Baby Brain Support in Pregnancy with Dr. Ari Calhoun | #13
Autism is a diagnosis many have heard of, but few truly understand the full picture of what contributes to it and how we can proactively support brain development from the very beginning.In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Dr. Ari Calhoun, a leading expert in pediatric neurodevelopment, to explore autism and other childhood brain development conditions through a fresh and comprehensive lens. This conversation goes beyond the conventional narrative and dives into the factors that may influence neurological development long before symptoms ever appear.We discuss how brain development begins even before conception and continues through pregnancy and early childhood, highlighting the critical windows where parents can play a supportive role. Dr. Ari shares practical, actionable strategies for optimizing your child’s neurological health, including considerations around maternal health, environmental exposures, nutrition, immune system balance, and early-life experiences.This episode is not about fear, but about empowerment. Whether you are planning for pregnancy, currently expecting, or raising young children, you will walk away with a deeper understanding of how to support healthy brain development and potentially reduce the risk of neurodevelopmental challenges.If you are looking for a more holistic and proactive approach to your child’s long-term health and development, this is an episode you do not want to miss.Resources From This Episode:Dr. Ari Calhoun InstagramMed School For Moms Vaccine Program - Get 50% off with code HEALTHYMOTHERHealthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER
Mar 8, 2023 • 1h 1min
A Deep Dive into Lip and Tongue Ties | #12
Tongue ties are one of the most talked-about and controversial topics in infant health right now, and for good reason. In this episode, we take a deep and honest look at what tongue ties actually are, how they impact your baby, and why this conversation has become so complex in recent years.We break down how oral ties, including tongue ties and lip ties, can affect far more than just breastfeeding. From difficulty latching and feeding to challenges with starting solids, speech development, oral hygiene, breathing patterns, and even facial structure, the function of the tongue plays a critical role in both short- and long-term health.This episode also explores the rapid growth of the tongue tie industry, including the benefits of increased awareness as well as the potential downsides. While more families now have access to helpful resources and solutions, there is also a concerning trend of overdiagnosis and profit-driven care that can leave parents feeling confused and overwhelmed.We walk through how to recognize signs and symptoms of oral ties, what proper functional assessment should look like, and how to approach treatment decisions with confidence. Most importantly, we emphasize the importance of looking at the whole picture and focusing on function, not just diagnosis.Whether you are navigating feeding challenges with your baby, exploring oral tie revisions, or simply wanting to better understand how early oral function impacts lifelong health, this episode will give you clarity, perspective, and practical guidance.Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER
Mar 1, 2023 • 50min
Postpartum Sex: What to Expect and How To Improve It | #11
Postpartum sex is one of the most real and rarely talked about parts of life after having a baby, and in this episode, we are going there.We dive into what actually happens to your body, hormones, and desire after birth, and why sex can feel completely different in the postpartum season. From physical healing and hormonal shifts to emotional changes and relationship dynamics, we unpack what is normal, what may feel surprising, and why so many women feel disconnected from intimacy during this time.We also talk about how to communicate with your partner about these changes in a way that fosters understanding, connection, and support rather than pressure or confusion. If you have ever felt unsure how to explain what you are experiencing or how to navigate intimacy after baby, this conversation will help you feel seen and supported.You will walk away with practical tools to support your body’s recovery, rebuild trust with your body, and ease back into intimacy in a way that feels safe and aligned for you. This is not about rushing the process, but about understanding it.As always, we are keeping it real, raw, and honest so you can feel less alone in this season and more empowered in your postpartum journey.Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER
Feb 22, 2023 • 43min
Breastfeeding: What to Know BEFORE Your Baby is Born | #10
Breastfeeding may be natural, but that does not mean it comes naturally. Both you and your baby are learning a brand new skill together, and without the right support, it can feel overwhelming fast.In this episode, we break down the foundational principles of successful breastfeeding and how you can begin preparing during pregnancy to set yourself up for a smoother experience postpartum. From understanding how milk supply works to learning proper positioning, latch techniques, and recognizing what is normal versus what may need support, we cover it all.We also dive into common challenges many new moms face, including tongue ties, letdown reflex, building and regulating supply, and navigating issues like clogged ducts and mastitis. With so many steep learning curves in the newborn phase, having education ahead of time can make a massive difference in your confidence and outcomes.One of the biggest gaps modern mothers face is lack of exposure. In past generations, women were surrounded by breastfeeding examples from a young age, but today many mothers have never even seen a baby latch before their own. This episode aims to bridge that gap by giving you both knowledge and reassurance.Whether you are planning to breastfeed, currently pregnant, or already in the early days postpartum, this episode will help you feel more prepared, supported, and empowered to build a positive breastfeeding experience for both you and your baby. Healthy As A Mother Podcast | YouTubeHealthy As A Mother Podcast | InstagramHealthy As A Mother Podcast | TikTokHealthy As A Mother Podcast | Merch StoreFind more from Dr. Leah:Dr. Leah Gordon | InstagramDr. Leah Gordon | WebsiteWomanhood Wellness | WebsiteFind more from Dr. Morgan:Dr. Morgan MacDermott | InstagramDr. Morgan MacDermott | WebsiteUse code HAAM and save 10% at FondUse code HEALTHYMOTHER and save 15% at RedmondFor 20% off your first order at Needed, use code HEALTHYMOTHERSave $260 at Lumebox, use code HEALTHYASAMOTHER


