In episode 29 of Oh Mama, we’ve officially made it past the 40 weeks pregnant mark! We’re here - actually, we’re four days over, and that’s what I want to talk about in today’s episode. See, there’s a lot that comes both mentally and physically with hitting the official "40 week" mark. There’s big mindset shifts, there can be a lot of pressure from hospitals to try and “speed things up” and you can be starting to feel a little impatient as you wait for your little one to arrive. And if you’re feeling any of that - you are totally not alone. I feel like the last few days have been a whirlwind of ups and downs, trying to ‘surrender’ and let go of expectations while also being wildly aware of every labour symptom that I feel might be the start of something. It’s a ride, let me tell you. So I want to share my experience honestly so that if you’re going through it, or getting close to your estimated due date, you hopefully feel a little less alone. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: 40 weeks pregnant updateWhy your due date is actually just an estimationMindset around hitting your "due date"How to feel less stressed about going into laborThe importance of being informed around labour and birthWhy evidence based research is CRITICAL through pregnancy and birth (including resources that have helped me)My experience at my 40 week antenatal appointmentPressure I felt around induction and how I navigated that as a first time mumNatural methods to try and start labourThings you can try to dilate naturallyWhat you can do to naturally induce spontaneous labor OH MAMA MANTRA: My baby is on their way to me in perfect timing Connect on TikTok: @thisistayrae Connect on Instagram: @thisistayrae Follow the podcast on IG: @ohmamapod Wanna be fancy and email? You got it: heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! *Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

It’s episode 28 and can you believe I’m still pregnant? Wowee people. I didn’t know if we’d get another episode together before baby arrived, but we’ve done it! Officially 39 weeks pregnant (and four days!) and baby girl seems very cozy and content in there for now! It’s been a beautiful, slow week, where I’ve just been enjoying the lead up to birth - ticking off a last few things like postpartum meal prep and collecting colostrum in the lead up to birth. That, and trying to get in as much rest as possible before labour kicks off - cause ya girl is TIRED. I know every day could be “the day” so we’re just enjoying it all as it comes and trusting that baby will make her way when she’s ready. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: 39 weeks pregnant updateFeeling tired in the third trimesterHas my baby dropped?Colostrum harvesting and when to do itWhy I’m collecting colostrumWhat’s helped me with colostrum collectionHand expressing colostrum vs using a pump or haakaLearning as we go and relying on support from othersWhy community is so important as a new mum OH MAMA MANTRA: As a mum, I am doing my best, and my best is good enough. Connect on TikTok: @thisistayrae Connect on Instagram: @thisistayrae Follow the podcast on IG: @ohmamapod Wanna be fancy and email? You got it: heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! *Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

Okay, so episode 27 has to be my favourite episode of Oh Mama to-date. Seriously, the emotional outpour was unexpected this week people, but it happened and honestly I’m so glad I was recording when it did. I guess the old pregnancy hormones are hitting hard this week! We’re getting all kinds of deep together as we discuss how I’m feeling a mere couple of weeks (or days, who knows!) away from becoming a mother, and the emotions, excitement and overall identity shift that comes with that. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: Update at 38 weeks pregnantHow I’m preparing my postpartum meal prepBirth and labour affirmations I’m using daily to help keep a positive mindsetHow I’m feeling as I get ready to meet our daughter for the first timeWhy I know I need to rest and look after myself as much as possible before baby comesUsing a TENS machine for the first time and why I wanted it for labourWhat my Mother’s Blessing Ceremony was likeWhy you might want to do a Blessingway instead of a baby showerAm I feeling Braxton Hicks at night or is it nothing?Things I didn’t know about pregnancy, like birthing the placenta!Waiting for contractions and why everything seems like the start of labourWhen I went on maternity leave and how it’s going so farThings I’m doing in the last few weeks before baby arrivesOxytocin release and things to help go into spontaneous labour OH MAMA MANTRA: I can do anything for one minute Connect on TikTok: @thisistayrae Connect on Instagram: @thisistayrae & @ohmamapod Wanna be fancy and email? You got it: heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! *Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 26 of Oh Mama, I’m coming at ya from almost fully cooked! That’s right people, not long to go now! Being officially 36 weeks + 6 days when recording this, baby girl could make her debut in a few days, or hang out in there another month yet. Who knows, only time will tell! Bumpdate wise for you, lots has been going on over the last couple of weeks. The nursery is coming together sooo nicely, pram is set up, cot is built, bassinet is up in our room, and all here gorgeous little clothes, socks, beanies and other baby things are washed, folded and patiently waiting her arrival. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: My go-to recommendations for maternity clothesSwollen hands and feet in the third trimesterPracticing perineal massage with my partnerPacking my hospital bag (+ the best tip I’ve been given for how to pack)What I’ve done to prepare for baby’s arrival so farWhy I hired a TENS machine to support me in labourWhat our hypnobirthing experience was likeWhy I decided a hypnobirthing course was right for me and my partnerIs hypnobirthing all woo-woo? Or are there practical skills too?Things I’m leaning on for labour: breathing techniques, pain management, accupressure, affirmations, meditations, self hypnosis, light touch massage, anchor pointsHow I’ve prepared to be informed with what we consent to in hospitalWhy I wrote a birth plan and how it’s helping me feel ready for labour and birthBirth plan vs birth preferences and what it means to meWhat can go in a birth plan: environment, communication, birthing positions, intervention preferences, emergency plans, golden hour **OH MAMA MANTRA: “**Labour pain is healthy pain” Connect on TikTok: @thisistayrae Connect on Instagram: @thisistayrae & @ohmamapod Wanna be fancy and email? You got it: heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! *Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 25 of Oh Mama, we are coming in hot at 33 weeks pregnant. There’s been a real shift this week where I’m no longer nervous about taking time-off post baby, and instead am actually really looking forward to maternity leave and allowing myself to be fully immersed in that newborn bubble without guilt of needing to be “doing more”. And while the postpartum phase is certainly on its way, there’s a BIG important piece we need to go through first: labour and delivery. That’s right - the birth of baby. And one of the things I’m doing to get ready for that is organising my hospital bag for labour. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: Update at 33 weeks pregnantSimilarities between the first and third trimesterNursery shopping and preparing for babyWhat I’m packing in my hospital bag for labourThe four sections of your hospital bag prep: labour, mama, baby, other OH MAMA MANTRA: “My body and my baby are working together” Connect on TikTok: @thisistayrae Connect on Instagram: @thisistayrae & @ohmamapod Wanna be fancy and email? You got it: heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! *Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 24 of Oh Mama, nesting mode is in full swing as we prepare for the arrival of our first baby. At 32 weeks pregnant, it really feels like this weird paradox where it’s like there’s still so much time, but also like no time at all until baby joins us (anyone else feel me?). As your self-appointed pregnant BFF, I’m breaking down all the things I’m doing to get the nursery ready, and some of the prep I’ve done to get ready for labour, birth and postpartum. We chat about some of the things no one tells you about pregnancy, why baby shopping can be very overwhelming (and what I’m doing instead) and why nesting is legit a response to chemical changes going on in our pregnant bods (this blew my mind). Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: 32 weeks pregnant update (baby brain is a real thing, people)Strangers touching and commenting on the bumpTransforming the office into the nurseryHow I’m feeling now I’m officially “very pregnant”How I’m organising things for the last bit of pregnancy into postpartumThings I’ve bought to prepare for babyGoogling how many nappies does a newborn need in a day and other things I had no idea about until nowOnline shopping vs in store shopping for babyThe one thing I wish I’d done differently to get ready for birth & babyLightning crotch, extra discharge and other unspoken pregnancy things OH MAMA MANTRA: “I am built for birth. My body and my baby know what to do.” Connect on TikTok: @thisistayrae Connect on Instagram: @thisistayrae & @ohmamapod Wanna be fancy and email? You got it: heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 23 of Oh Mama, we’re officially at 30 weeks pregnant! Wowee, things are definitely feeling very real as we head down the final ten weeks (if she stays in there the full time!) Nesting vibes are in full swing, baby brain is in full force, emotions have been a little all over the place and some of those delightful first trimester symptoms like reflux & exhaustion have started to appear yet again - yay. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: Update at 30 weeks pregnantWhy pregnant mums nestPreparing for labour and birthPregnancy appointmentsWhat is the midwifery group practice (MGP)Hypnobirthing classes OH MAMA MANTRA: I trust my body and I trust my baby Instagram + TikTok: @thisistayrae Instagram: @ohmamapod Wanna be fancy and email? You got it: heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 22 of Oh Mama, we’re chatting all about tight pelvic floors and how to prepare for labour and birth. I recently had a pelvic floor examination with my women’s health physio, and found out that I have a VERY tight pelvic floor, so now I’m on a mission to relax “down there” and get prepared for what will hopefully be a natural and uncomplicated delivery. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: 28 weeks pregnancy updateWhat to do in the last trimesterThird trimester checklist to prepare for babyHow to prepare for labour and birth (what I’m doing)How I’m relaxing my pelvic floorExercise restrictions in the third trimesterThings starting to feel very real with only 12 weeks to go OH MAMA MANTRA: “Open, relax, release” I love to hear from you! DM me:  TikTok: @thisistayrae Instagram: @thisistayrae & @ohmamapod Wanna be fancy and email? You got it: heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 21 of Oh Mama, it’s story time about possibly the worst flight of my life. And if the title didn’t give things away, that’s because I was struck horribly by Bali Belly half way through a six hour flight home from our babymoon. If you don’t know what Bali Belly is, it’s like gastro, the stomach flu, food poisoning...think projectile vomiting and diarrhoea everywhere. And it’s super NOT fun at 6 months pregnant, on a plane - let me tell you. But it does make for a good story. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: Update at 27 weeks pregnantHow our babymoon in Bali was (hint: amazing)What travelling to Bali at 25 weeks pregnant was likeGetting Bali Belly (traveller’s diarrhoea) at 6 months pregnantHow I survived a week without food (and stayed hydrated) while sick with stomach fluOur trip to the emergency ward at 26 weeks pregnantThings feeling super real coming into the third trimester OH MAMA MANTRA: “Breathe it all in, love it all out” - Ina May Gaskin What'd you think of the episode? DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Instagram + TikTok: @thisistayrae Instagram: @ohmamapod Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 20 of Oh Mama, we’re chatting about colostrum collection, leaky nipples, those little bumps on your areola and breast changes during pregnancy. At 24 weeks pregnant, I’ve experienced a lot of changes already, and I know there’s a lot yet to come - so I’m embracing it all, and sharing a story of how my nipples started leaking what I think is “liquid gold” the other night, and how I felt about it. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: Strangers starting to ask when your baby is duePoo schedule changing in second trimesterDelicious dessert treat during pregnancyColostrum collection “liquid gold”Babymoon vibes in BaliMindset shifts, stress and mental states during pregnancy OH MAMA MANTRA: “Being a mother is learning about strengths you didn’t know you had” Linda Wooten Got an Oh Mama Mantra you want to share? DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Instagram + TikTok: @thisistayrae Instagram: @ohmamapod Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 19 of Oh Mama, we’re letting loose and talking about the pregnancy symptom that it seems no one wants to mention - the excess vaginal discharge. Listen up sista, if you’ve been pregnant and noticed things getting a little wet down there, you’re not alone, and I wanna talk about it (honestly).  Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: 24 weeks pregnancy updateThe weirdness of the fruits to describe baby’s sizeGetting fitted for maternity brasVaginal discharge during pregnancyStorytime about my chafing legs thanks to the excess moisture down thereWhat I’m doing differently to feel a heck of a lot more comfortableMy thoughts on adult diapers postpartum OH MAMA MANTRA: “The fact that you worry about being a good mom means you are one.” Jodi Picoult Loving the podcast? DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Instagram + TikTok: @thisistayrae Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

Hello from my first official day back at things for 2023! And if you are back into the swing of work/events/kids/school prep/anything this week then I’m with ya sister and I hope the energy of the new year is feeling good for you! We’re here in episode 18 of Oh Mama, and officially 23 weeks of pregnancy - past the half way mark and I’m feeling goooood. As I discuss, I mention that I’ve tried to be really intentionally present through these 23 weeks, and while I think it’s easy to go “WOAH, 23 weeks already!” I actually feel like the time matches up with how far along I feel, which is a good thing I think! I feel like I’ve really taken in these past few months, and am looking at the time we have left as an abundance of time rather than freaking out that we’re on the other side of the hill. This week, James felt baby kick for the first time - which was so beautiful to watch him experience. We’re also 10 days out from our babymoon in Bali, WOOHOO, and overall I’m feeling so good and honestly like we’re ramping up into all the fun stuff as we get closer! Lots of preparation to do, and I’m actually so pumped about it all. It feels like all the fun stuff is ahead as we start to get everything organised for baby joining us just a few short months from now. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: Bumpdate at 23 weeks pregnantWeight I’ve gained, why I’m not stressing or tracking it week by week, and what I’m focusing on insteadMy pregnancy pillow arrived! What pillow I bought and how it’s going so farDifferent things I’m doing to help with pelvic girdle painHow I’m taking things week-by-week instead of all at onceCraving milk during the second trimester (my evening go-to)Skin tags and other unexpected changes happening in my body during pregnancyWhat I’m doing to reduce stretch marks during pregnancyMy pregnancy folder and how I use itMy go-to app for staying organised on all things pregnancyThe benefits of using a shared calendar with your partnerHow I keep track of all the notes from my midwife, obstetrician and physio appointments OH MAMA MANTRA: “Birth is the most sublime and wondrous human experience” - Juju Sudin (Birth Skills) What unexpected things have happened to your body during pregnancy? DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Instagram + TikTok: @thisistayrae Instagram: @ohmamapod Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

Raise your hand if you had a breakdown thinking about birth plans, birth options and preparing for birth and labour… raises hand. Yeah sis, that was me earlier this week and I’m talking about it all in episode 17 of Oh Mama. I had a reaaaaal moment of feeling like it was all a bit much - and literally bawled my eyes out to James in the carpark of Woolies. So if you’re feeling a little anxious or overwhelmed in your pregnancy as you get closer to birth, you’re not alone. Now don’t get me wrong, overall I’m actually loving being pregnant and I’m excited to give birth, but I definitely have my moments, and this was one of them! I feel like there’s a lot of noise online about what to do or what not to do, and this week I had a day where it all felt too much. But as always, there’s a lesson in it - and after speaking to family and some close friends, as well as my obstetrician and women’s health physio, I’m feeling a LOT better, and sharing some of my biggest takeaways to help you navigate the overwhelm you might be feeling too as you get closer to labour. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: 22 weeks pregnancy updateSeeing my obstetrician for the first timeGetting support from a women’s health physio with pelvic girdle pain & my pelvic floorFeeling overwhelmed at all the options with birth and labourMaking sure you’re in the right headspace and selective about what birth stories you listen toHow I’m getting informed so I know my options and what I’m consenting to in labourSteps I’m taking to reduce anxiety and overwhelm around birthMy gradual approach to learning and preparing for labour and birth for the second half of this pregnancyCreating a great support team for my birth & labourHaving boundaries to support your mental health around birth OH MAMA MANTRA: “I am prepared to meet whatever turns my birthing takes” How are you feeling in the lead up to labour? DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

Break into song with me, sing it: “Let’s talk about sex, baby! Let’s talk about SEX”. Yep it’s happening, we’re going there in episode 16 of Oh Mama, diving in on all the questions you might have about sex while pregnant. “Can you have sex while pregnant?” “Is sex painful when pregnant?”, “Will my baby be ok if I have sex?” “Are you more horny when you’re pregnant?”. Trust me sister, I asked those questions too. And while I am nowhere near a doctor, I am 21 weeks pregnant, wondered all those things myself and am here to tell you what it’s been like in my experience so far. If you thought I was an open book so far, you ain’t seen nothing yet. We’re really going there in this one, and I’m holding nothing back as I talk about my own sex life and experience through pregnancy. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: 21 weeks pregnant updateHaving a breakdown and crying in the woolies carparkWorries I had about sex while pregnantWhat the first time having sex felt like after finding out I was pregnantHow things have changed for us as a couple since getting pregnantWhat we’re doing differently during sex now in the second trimesterWhat feels different in my body and how I respond to sex now vs not pregnantAre you REALLY extra horny when pregnant or is that a myth? OH MAMA MANTRA: “I will let go of how I think today is supposed to go and accept how it imperfectly happens.” Okay I want to hear from you - what’s changed in your sex life since being pregnant? DM me and let me know! Instagram + TikTok: @thisistayrae Instagram: @ohmamapod Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

Fitness and training during pregnancy. It’s one of those sometimes “touchy” subjects, but it’s something I really wanted to discuss in episode 15 of Oh Mama. See, for me - weightlifting, functional training and focusing on strength has been a big part of my life for the last 8 years. But once I became pregnant, there was part of me (based on what the world told me) that thought I wouldn’t be able to do it. And to be fair, I did feel fragile and not too up to lifting or really any gym sessions for most of the first trimester, but as I move through month 5 of pregnancy, and have passed 20 weeks pregnant, my energy and my body is feeling the best and most capable yet. And with that, has come confidence in what I know I’m capable of. Which is why I’ve decided I am in my “strong and pregnant” era. Where I am continuing to lift weights and focus on staying strong during my pregnancy (safely), for as long as my body allows. Truly, I feel better than ever - both physically and mentally. Prioritising movement that is good for my body, focusing on strength training during pregnancy and continuing to lift weights through the second trimester (and hopefully into the third) feels so good for my body, and I have no doubt will help with birth and the postpartum recovery period. I’m listening to my body, focusing on functional movement and building strength through my posterior chain (and honestly it’s helping with the lower back pain that’s kicked in the last few weeks!). Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: The confusion around due dates and how far along you areFeeling baby’s kicks on the outside for the first timeListening to your body and finding movement that feels goodNot giving up your training just because of pregnancyStepping into the strong AND pregnant eraNot being defined by society’s generalisations when it comes to movement and healthCelebrating how capable female bodies are when pregnant OH MAMA MANTRA: “Let us make pregnancy an occasion when we appreciate our female bodies.” — Merete Leonhardt-Lupa Is your partner into feeling the kicks, freaked out, or waiting until it’s more obvious (like my partner James?) DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 14 of Oh Mama, we’re officially HALF WAY b*tches!! Can you believe it?! So wild. Anyway, with hitting 20 weeks comes the all important 20 week ultrasound (morphology scan), which is also referred to as the morphology scan. I was SO excited to do this scan, as we haven’t seen baby girl since the 8 week dating scan when she was nothing more than a little blob. Seeing her at the scan, as a full formed baby, with her arms, legs, feet, hands, nose, lips - EVERYTHING - brought on ALL the emotions. Are we surprised? No, it’s me. But truly, it was the most magical thing. Honestly, I love being pregnant. I truly think that it is the most magical thing. I can’t believe that my body has grown a little person, and that we got to see her moving around, practicing her kung fu moves in there. She’s perfect, and we love her so much already. Half way there and already so excited for the second half! Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: All the updates at 20 weeks pregnantHow everything is happening for you not to youGetting honest about pregnancy hormones and feeling a little anxiousPain and feeling uncomfortable sleeping in the second trimesterWhat the 20 week ultrasound is likeWhat we got to see at the 20 week scanWhat I wore to my ultrasound to be extra comfy20 week scan tips and things we learnt OH MAMA MANTRA: “My body has given me the greatest gift of my life” - Hilary Duff Did you do anything fun with your baby’s ultrasound? DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 13 of Oh Mama, we’re talking about the nasty little beast that is GUILT that comes up whenever we as mums, mums-to-be, or women in general impart on ourselves whenever we decide to just take a break! This is something I’ve struggled with A LOT in my life, and I found myself once again battling it today. But it came with some insight. The fact that the “in-between” is so much worse! What’s ‘the in-between’, you ask? Well mama, it’s that place where you don’t do the things on your to-do list, but you also don’t allow yourself to be okay with resting. You’re not really getting much done, but you’re not enjoying doing nothing - so you’re not productive AND you’re not fully pausing - and it feels worse than anything! So here’s my note to self (and to anyone it helps) - to either be all in, or all out. Full permission to pause, or decide to be productive! None of this one foot in, one foot out nonsense anymore! Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: 20 weeks pregnant updateMy thoughts on hot cross buns out on boxing day!Handling the end of year rush that comes with DecemberWhy mum’s need to rest too, and why we should be okay with itHow important it is to DECIDE to do nothingWhy “the inbetween” is worse than being lazyReminder to let go of guilt when you want to just stop OH MAMA MANTRA: “I give myself full permission to rest, and I let go of any expectations of myself, without guilt.” How do you feel about Easter promotions before the end of the year? DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

Welcome to episode 12 of Oh Mama, and our first official CONVO CORNER episode! Convo Corners are interviews where I get to sit down with other women and mamas to discuss their experiences through pregnancy, birth and motherhood, and what better guest to start with, than my very own mum, Peta! This is such a special conversation where mum reflects on the lessons she’s learnt from being a mother for 30 years, and how things have changed from then until now. She shares some of the things that she would want me know as I go into parenthood for the first time, and opens up honestly about her experience with being alone post-partum, what helped in some of the darker moments, how being a mum changed her, and her tips for honouring your relationship and surviving in general once baby is here. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: All things menopause and why there’s parts that are actually good!What it’s like finding out your first born is having their first childHow I told my mum I was pregnant and her reaction (in real time)What it’s like meeting your baby for the first time (and how it feels)Doing your best as a parent and knowing mistakes are part of the processTalking with your partner about parenting styles before birthThe differences in parenting + birthing now .vs. 30 years agoThe importance of Mum’s Groups and building a support communityMother’s intuition and learning to listen to your gut OH MAMA MANTRA: "It’s okay to not know what you’re doing and to ask for help. Never hold back from asking for help. You won’t know what you’re doing and there will be times where you will go “oh f&% what have I done?” and you’ll be wondering if you’re doing the right things - but you’ll be fine, just don’t stress. We’ve all been there and just reach out to someone if it’s all getting too much." Did you find out the gender of your baby or did you wait until the birth? DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.

In episode 11 of Oh Mama, we’re talking all about planning your babymoon! This is something James and I have recently done - we booked a babymoon in Bali for when I’m around 25 weeks pregnant! I am seriously SO excited for this last trip just the two of us, but there was a lot that I looked into prior to booking, and I’m sure you have a lot of the same questions like, “where to book my babymoon”, “travel and flight restrictions while pregnant” and “how to prepare for my babymoon” - so I’m sharing a lot of the answers and what I did in order to book ours! We’ve got 8 days booked in for the end of January and I cannot wait! Until then, I’ll be daydreaming of laying by the pool with a mocktail in hand, until it becomes reality! The countdown is on! Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: The highs and lows at 19 weeks pregnantDeciding on a location for your babymoonHow late you can fly pregnant international and domesticPreparing for travel when pregnantHow to book cheap flights for your babymoonPlanning your activities and expectations for pregnancy travel/babymoonChoosing your accomodation for pregnancy (all inclusive options)Why travel insurance is so important when pregnantTravelling as a couple vs travelling with kids **OH MAMA MANTRA: *“*Taking care of myself doesn’t mean me first, it means me too.” Where are you going for your babymoon? Or where did you DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you!

In episode 10 of Oh Mama, I dive in on talking all about the different transformations, cycles and seasons that we as women go through in our bodies through our lifetimes. From birth, to puberty, to pregnancy, to postpartum, to menopause, we are literally going through so many transformations, and I’ve only started to realise that recently for myself as I navigate the changes that come with my first pregnancy. I’ve recently learnt the term matrescence and while it was first coined in the 70s, it feels like it’s barely spoken about. The transformation into motherhood. Moving from the archetype of maiden, into the role of mother. I’m learning so much about myself through this experience and I feel I will only continue to do so as I progress through this journey. Physical changes, new identities and so much more. Okay mama, here’s all the things we’re talking about: Updates, high and low of 18 weeks pregnantGetting surprised with a beautiful baby showerMy thoughts on juggling the line between for myself and baby through birth, and trusting my care providers decisionsThe cycles and changes that we go through in our bodies as womenPuberty, pregnancy, postpartum and parenthoodThe changes in identity as we navigate new roles and seasons in lifeFeeling alone in pregnancy and parenthood and why connecting is so important OH MAMA MANTRA: “You are not alone - motherhood is a collective, a club, a sisterhood. Make time for other mothers. Learn from them. Appreciate them. Most importantly, have fun with them.” Had you heard of matresence before? DM me @ohmamapod and let me know! Send us your favourite parts, share your stories or submit a question by emailing heyohmama@gmail.com. Love you! **Please note: this podcast is not medical advice. Instead, think of it as having a pregnancy chats with your BFF, where we keep things wildly honest, and we share what we're really thinking and experiencing as we grow a tiny human. If an episode is helpful, amazing, but it's in no way here to tell you what to do or how to be/feel/act/think. Your experience is unique and perfect to you. No comparison necessary here, but we hope hearing the experiences we share makes you feel a little less alone in the moments when you might wonder if it's only you that's going through it. I promise you mama, it isn't. You're not alone, and we're in this together - one big mama squad.