Healthy As A Mother

Body image during pregnancy and postpartum is one of the most deeply felt yet rarely discussed aspects of motherhood, and in this powerful episode, we are bringing it into the light.Joined by Dr. Cerra Kelly, naturopathic doctor and women’s reproductive health expert, we explore the emotional and physical realities of how a woman’s body changes through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. In a culture that pressures women to “snap back” and erase the visible signs of motherhood, we challenge that narrative and open up a more compassionate and realistic conversation.We dive into the concept of body neutrality and how it can be a more accessible and healing approach than striving for constant body positivity. For women with a history of disordered eating or body image struggles, pregnancy and postpartum can be especially triggering, and Dr. Cerra shares how she supports patients through these challenges with practical tools and mindset shifts.We also discuss the importance of adequate nourishment for fertility, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, including why weight gain can be protective and supportive of both baby development and milk supply. This episode highlights the connection between physical health, emotional healing, and self-perception.A particularly powerful part of this conversation is the idea of re-parenting and healing the inner child, addressing where body image struggles may have first taken root and how to begin rewriting that narrative.This episode is an invitation to shift from criticism to compassion, and to cultivate a deeper sense of respect and appreciation for the incredible work your body is doing in creating and nurturing life.  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

IVF can be both a miracle and a deeply complex decision, and in this episode, we are having an honest, nuanced conversation about it all.Dr. Leah shares her personal story of needing IVF to become a mom and the immense gratitude she has for the role it played in building her family. At the same time, we explore a critical question that many couples are facing today: is IVF always the right next step, or are too many people being funneled into this path without fully exploring other options?We unpack the current fertility landscape, including gaps in the conventional system that may lead to premature recommendations for IVF, and where a more comprehensive evaluation could make a difference. This conversation is not about fear or avoidance, but about empowerment and informed decision-making.You will learn practical steps you can take right now to assess and support your fertility, whether you are just beginning your journey or have been trying to conceive for some time. We discuss foundational factors like hormone balance, lifestyle, and testing, as well as how to approach your fertility in a proactive and personalized way.Whether IVF is part of your path or not, this episode will help you better understand your options, advocate for yourself within the medical system, and make decisions that feel aligned with your body, your values, and your family goals. Resources From This Episode:Healthy As A Mother Episode #06: Sperm Matter: Why We Should Care About Male Fertility 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

The postpartum period, often called the fourth trimester, is one of the most important and under-supported seasons in a woman’s life, and this episode is dedicated entirely to caring for YOU.While so much attention is placed on the newborn, many mothers are left depleted, overwhelmed, and underprepared for their own recovery. In this episode, we shift the focus back to where it belongs by exploring what true postpartum care should look like and how to intentionally prepare for it.We draw on traditional practices from cultures around the world that prioritize rest, nourishment, warmth, and community support for new mothers. These time-tested approaches offer a powerful contrast to modern expectations of “bouncing back” and doing it all alone.You will learn how to create a postpartum plan that supports deep healing, including practical ways to incorporate warming foods, prioritize rest, limit stress, and build a support system that allows you to fully recover. We also discuss how reconnecting with nature and slowing down can play a key role in emotional and physical resilience during this transition.This episode is your invitation to approach postpartum with intention so you can enter motherhood feeling nourished, supported, and truly cared for rather than burnt out and depleted. 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

Male fertility plays a far bigger role in conception than most people realize, yet it is often overlooked in the fertility conversation. In this episode, we shine a light on why sperm health matters just as much as egg quality and how it can impact not only your ability to conceive, but also pregnancy outcomes and your child’s long-term health.We break down how sperm are made, what influences their quality, and why male fertility is declining at an alarming rate worldwide. From lifestyle factors and environmental exposures to nutrition and stress, we explore the key drivers behind sperm health and what may be working against it in modern life.Most importantly, we provide practical, actionable steps you or your partner can take to optimize sperm quality and improve your chances of conception. Whether you are just beginning your fertility journey or have been trying for some time, understanding and supporting male fertility can be a game changer.This topic is deeply personal and powerful, and our goal is to empower couples with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their fertility and support the healthiest possible future for their children.  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

What actually happens in your body when labor begins? And how can understanding that process help you have a smoother, more empowered birth experience?In this episode, we take you through a foundational crash course in birth physiology so you can better understand what is happening inside your body during labor and delivery. We break down what triggers labor to start, how key hormones work together to create contractions, and why your environment and mindset can either support or stall the process.You will learn how to work with your body rather than against it by understanding the natural flow of labor. We also explore why contractions can feel painful, what is happening on a physiological level, and practical ways to reduce that pain through movement, positioning, and nervous system support.We also discuss common reasons labor may slow down or stall and what you can do to help get things moving again in a natural and supportive way. Plus, we dive into the incredible and often overlooked transitions your baby goes through during birth, including what happens in their body when they take their very first breath.Whether you are preparing for your first birth or looking to approach this experience differently, this episode will give you a deeper understanding of labor, more confidence in your body, and practical tools to support a positive birth outcome.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

If you are thinking about getting pregnant soon, this episode is your complete guide to preparing your body, mind, and lifestyle for a healthy conception journey.We walk you through everything you need to know during the preconception phase, starting from the moment you decide to come off birth control all the way to actively trying to conceive. This is the time where small, intentional changes can make a powerful impact on your fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and your future baby’s health.We break down the foundational pillars of preconception health, including how to nourish your body with the right nutrition, prioritize restorative sleep, and reduce toxin exposure in your everyday life. You will also learn how stress impacts your hormones and fertility, along with practical ways to regulate your nervous system and support your body through this transition.We dive into the often overlooked role of nature, daily rhythms, and lifestyle habits in optimizing fertility, as well as the importance of your partner’s health and how male fertility plays a critical role in conception.Whether you are planning to start trying soon or just beginning to think about growing your family, this episode gives you clear, actionable steps to feel confident, prepared, and supported in your preconception 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

Birth control is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for women, but how much do we really understand about what it is doing inside the body?In this episode, we take a deep dive into the history and origin of birth control so you can better understand how it became such a widespread solution in women’s health. From there, we break down exactly how hormonal birth control works and what it is actually doing to your hormones, ovulation, and natural cycle.We unpack a major misconception around birth control bleeds and explain why the “period” you experience on hormonal birth control is not a true menstrual cycle. This distinction is key when it comes to understanding your hormone health and fertility.We also explore why birth control is so often prescribed as a quick fix for symptoms like acne, irregular cycles, and painful periods, and why it may not address the root cause of hormonal imbalances.Most importantly, we share practical ways to support your body both on and off birth control. You will learn how to protect your hormones, support your natural cycle, and preserve your fertility through simple lifestyle, nutrition, and holistic health strategies.Whether you are currently on birth control, considering coming off, or just want to better understand your body, this episode will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and equipped to make the best decisions for your 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

Is the modern birth system truly designed to support the natural process of labor?In this episode, we take an honest and eye-opening look at the realities of the industrialized birth system and how it often works against the physiology of labor rather than supporting it. We break down how standard practices in many hospital settings can lead to unnecessary interventions and how this impacts outcomes for both mothers and babies.We explore key topics such as due dates and how they are often misunderstood, the cascade of interventions that can begin with induction, and the rising rates of cesarean births. You will learn why physiological labor requires specific conditions to unfold properly and how those conditions are frequently disrupted in modern medical environments.We also highlight the lack of individualized care in today’s system and how this contributes to many women feeling disempowered during their birth experience. Most importantly, we walk through common “trap points” where women may unknowingly be guided toward interventions that may not always be necessary.This episode is not about fear, but about awareness and education. Our goal is to help you understand your options, ask better questions, and feel confident advocating for the birth experience you want. Whether you are planning a hospital birth, home birth, or just beginning your research, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, prepared, and empowered. 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

Welcome to Season 1 of the Healthy As A Mother Podcast.In this introductory episode, we share the story behind our friendship and how this podcast came to life. From meeting as college roommates to navigating medical school together and now walking through motherhood side by side, this journey has shaped both who we are and why we are so passionate about supporting women.We open up about our personal experiences, the challenges we have faced, and the moments that led us to pursue women’s health and motherhood as our life’s work. This episode gives you a behind the scenes look at our story, our heart for this space, and what you can expect from the conversations ahead.Our goal with this podcast is to create a space where women feel seen, supported, and empowered throughout every stage of their journey into and through motherhood. Whether you are trying to conceive, pregnant, postpartum, or simply curious about women’s health, you are in the right place.This episode will feel like you are sitting on the couch with us, getting to know us as friends, and we are so glad you are here. 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