In this conversation, Samantha Tollison and Mallory Tutton discuss the challenges and experiences of postpartum life, particularly focusing on breastfeeding and tandem nursing. Mallory shares her journey of breastfeeding for over nine years and the logistics of nursing multiple children! Mallory has been nursing for 9 consecutive years, including through 3 pregnancies! She shared so much valuable wisdom and insight on how tandem nursing is not only possible, but truly beautiful and an extraordinary bonding experience, not only for herself but for the siblings who share her!   The Prego Expo is coming to Dallas!! August 23 + 24 🔗 Use code BABY20 for 20% off your tickets! https://aftontickets.com/event/tickets/38jynqqnx7/QkFCWTIw    Purchase the White Birth Pool of our dreams... 🔗 Earthside Birth Pools   FOLLOW MALLORY 👉🏼 https://www.instagram.com/midwifemallory/  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

In this episode, Carly Cole shares her breastfeeding journey, discussing her initial expectations, the challenges she faced, including tongue tie and latching issues, and the importance of finding the right support through lactation consultants. She reflects on her experiences with weaning, breastfeeding during pregnancy, and so much more. Carly emphasizes the rewards of breastfeeding despite the struggles and offers advice for new mothers, highlighting the significance of having a lactation consultant on standby. She also shares insights on breastfeeding in public, dietary challenges, and the emotional aspects of her journey. Keywords breastfeeding pain, lactation, tongue tie, parenting, motherhood, weaning, support, challenges, pregnancy, breastfeeding journey Takeaways - Carly was not familiar with breastfeeding before having her son.- She faced unexpected challenges with latching and pain during breastfeeding.- Finding the right lactation consultant was crucial for her success.- Carly's son had a tongue tie that complicated breastfeeding.- She used a nipple shield to help with latching issues.- Carly's husband was very supportive throughout her breastfeeding journey.- She plans to wean her son around his third birthday.- Breastfeeding has made Carly feel capable and strong as a mother.- Carly faced dietary challenges due to her son's allergies.- She encourages new moms to seek help and not isolate themselves. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Carly's Family and Background02:07 Carly's Initial Thoughts on Breastfeeding05:07 Challenges Faced in the Early Days of Breastfeeding10:01 Navigating Tongue Tie and Lactation Consultants11:59 The Journey of Nursing River17:50 Weaning Process and Future Plans20:49 Preparing for Baby Number Two and Lessons Learned21:48 The Importance of Lactation Consultants23:05 Cherished Breastfeeding Memories24:25 Breastfeeding Challenges and Public Perception27:10 Navigating Dietary Restrictions29:05 Overcoming Early Struggles31:17 Support Systems in Breastfeeding32:08 Pride in Perseverance33:40 Breastfeeding's Impact on Motherhood34:59 Surprises in the Breastfeeding Journey35:51 Advice for New Moms37:01 Essential Tools for Breastfeeding39:50 The Rewards of Breastfeeding Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/ Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

In this conversation, Tracy shares her unique journey of motherhood and breastfeeding across different cultures, including South Africa, the UK, and the US. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of breastfeeding her three children, the importance of education and support, and the impact of moving countries on her breastfeeding experience. Tracy emphasizes the need for community and resources for new mothers, and reflects on the emotional and physical demands of breastfeeding. She offers valuable advice for expectant mothers and highlights the significance of being present for each feeding, regardless of the challenges faced. Key Takeaways | - Tracy's journey spans three countries and three children.- Breastfeeding is culturally accepted in South Africa and the UK.- Support systems for breastfeeding vary significantly by country.- Education before childbirth is crucial for breastfeeding success.- Breastfeeding can be challenging, even for experienced mothers.- Community support is vital for new mothers.- Tracy's experiences highlight the importance of managing expectations.- Breastfeeding journeys are unique to each child and mother.- Seeking help is essential when facing breastfeeding challenges.- Every drop of breast milk is valuable and meaningful. Keywords | breastfeeding, motherhood, cultural perspectives, parenting, lactation, support systems, community, postpartum, education, challenges.  Purchase Twinkle's Big Change TWINKLES BIG CHANGE Connect | Tracy Hammond - https://www.instagram.com/pitterpatter_doula/  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/   

In this episode, Alexandria Fairbairn shares her personal journey through breastfeeding, discussing the challenges she faced, the importance of prenatal lactation support, and her thoughts on tandem nursing while pregnant. She emphasizes the emotional connection breastfeeding provides and offers valuable advice for new mothers navigating their own breastfeeding journeys.   Takeaways Alexandria is a mother of two, with a 15-month-old daughter and another baby on the way.Breastfeeding was more challenging than she anticipated, especially with her first child.She experienced pain and difficulties due to her daughter's lip and tongue ties.Alexandria emphasizes the importance of prenatal lactation consultations to prepare for breastfeeding.She found support from lactation consultants and a community of mothers helpful during her journey.Sleep deprivation significantly impacted her mental health and breastfeeding experience.Alexandria considered weaning at times but ultimately chose to continue breastfeeding.She highlights the need for self-care and support from family and friends while breastfeeding.Alexandria encourages mothers to prioritize their mental health and not feel guilty about their choices.She is open to tandem nursing and values the connection it provides with her children. CONNECT | Alexandria Fairbairn - https://www.instagram.com/alexandria.fairbairn/  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/   

In this conversation, Jessica Shirley, mama of five, discusses her journey through motherhood, focusing on her experiences with birth, breastfeeding, and homesteading. Jessica shares her birth stories, the challenges she faced with breastfeeding, and the support she received from her family. We explore the emotional aspects of breastfeeding, the tools and accessories that helped her, and the importance of nutrition. The conversation also touches on the bond Jessica has developed with her dairy cow, Bonnie, and how they care for her as she provides for their family!  Keywords breastfeeding | birth stories | homesteading | parenting | motherhood | lactation support | emotional bonding | dairy cow | family support | postpartum nutrition Takeaways Jessica has five children and has experienced various birth methods.Her breastfeeding journey began with challenges but evolved into a strong bond.Support from her husband and family has been crucial in her breastfeeding experience.Each child's breastfeeding journey has been unique, with different challenges and successes.Nutrition is vital for breastfeeding mothers to maintain their health and energy.Jessica emphasizes the emotional connection that develops through breastfeeding.She has used lactation consultants for all her children to ensure successful breastfeeding.Public breastfeeding has become more comfortable for her over the years.Homesteading life has integrated with her breastfeeding journey, allowing for unique experiences.Jessica's bond with her dairy cow, Bonnie, reflects her nurturing nature as a mother. Book Recommendation from Jessica in the Episode - The First Forty Days CONNECT | Jessica Shirley - https://www.instagram.com/jshirleyy_/  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/   

In this heartfelt conversation, Jacqui shares her journey through marriage, family planning, and the challenges of infertility. We talked about literally everything from military life, to IVF, and how she went from having a birth center birth with her first, to having a c-section with her second baby.  Here are just a few of the takeaways from this episode!!-Jacqui approached family planning with a relaxed mindset, letting things happen naturally.-Struggling with PCOS made conceiving a challenge.-Financial concerns influenced their decisions regarding fertility treatments.-They found a supportive insurance plan that covered IVF treatments.-Her emotional journey included a devastating miscarriage.-Faith played a significant role in their fertility journey. -Jacqui and her birth photographer formed a deep friendship unexpectedly. -Birth photography captures precious moments.-Support from partners during labor is invaluable.-Empowerment in childbirth can be a transformative experience.-Transitioning to parenthood can be challenging but rewarding.-Planning for a second child involves careful consideration. -Unexpected events during labor can lead to urgent medical decisions.-C-sections can be traumatic, especially when they are unplanned.-Every birth experience is unique and can evoke different emotions.   Pixieset referral link - https://pixieset.com/ref/3bvdphn86R The Educated Birth Toolkit Binder- 10% off with my code INFOCUS at theeducatedbirth.store. Connect with Jacqui here Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

In this Episode, Samantha and Miranda discuss Miranda's journey through motherhood and her experiences with childbirth. Miranda shares her journey through three unique births, emphasizing her decision to have a home birth for her third child. She discusses the importance of choosing a supportive birth team, the planning involved in a rural home birth, and the empowering experience of giving birth in a familiar environment. Miranda reflects on her experiences with each birth, the lessons learned, and offers advice for expecting mothers, particularly those considering home births or facing the possibility of precipitous labor. The COVID-19 pandemic created unique challenges during her first pregnancy. The adrenaline rush of childbirth can be exhilarating. Mental preparation for different labor scenarios is important. Each birth experience can be vastly different and unique. 00:00 Meet Miranda 05:48 First Birth Experience (Induction/COVID) 19:48 Second Birth Experience (Precipitous/ER Room) 35:55 Reflections and Future Plans 37:54 The Decision for Home Birth 42:01 Planning for a Rural Home Birth 49:45 The Birth Experience: A Journey of Empowerment 01:08:08 Reflections on Birth and Advice for Expecting Moms   Show Notes for Podcast Connect with Miranda on Instagram or her Website Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

In this episode of Birth in Focus, I’m joined by Midwife, Sabrina Elliott, for a powerful conversation about the contrast between urban and rural birth experiences in Texas. Sabrina brings a rare perspective—having served families in both city centers like Fort Worth and rural communities such as Abilene and San Angelo. With deep roots in home birth midwifery, she shares how access, culture, and care models shift dramatically depending on location, and what that means for birthing families. We explore:• How geography impacts birth choices and outcomes• The realities of serving families in rural areas• What birth looks like in Hotel• How midwives are bridging the gap with heart and skill Sabrina’s approach to birth is holistic, evidence-based, and full of reverence for the sacred nature of this work. Whether you’re preparing for birth, working in the field, or just curious about the landscape of birth in Texas, this episode will expand your perspective. 🎧 Tune in and be inspired by how Sabrina advocates for personalized care—no matter the zip code.   Follow Sabrina on IG  Country Midwife Documentary Ft. Sabrina Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

In this episode of Birth in Focus, I’m joined by the incredible Maggie Morrison—doula, educator, and advocate for empowered, physiological birth. With over eight years of experience walking alongside families, Maggie brings a wealth of insight and heart to this conversation. We chat about her journey into birth work, the evolution of her role as a doula, and her thoughts on potentially becoming a midwife. One of Maggie’s biggest passions is optimal fetal positioning, and we dig into why it matters so much, how it impacts labor, and practical ways to support it. Whether you're a seasoned birth worker, a new doula, or an expectant parent wanting to better understand your body and baby during labor—this episode is full of wisdom and encouragement. What We Cover:✨ Maggie’s journey into birth work✨ The emotional and practical side of supporting families✨ Her thoughts on midwifery and what’s holding her back (for now!)✨ Why optimal baby positioning is a game-changer✨ Tips for doulas and parents to encourage alignment and movement Resources & Links:Follow Maggie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bluebonnetbirthservices/ Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

Let's talk about how our GUT + BRAIN are connected to the BREASTFEEDING journy! In this episode, I sit down with Mikaylan Cushing, a holistic lactation and gut health expert, to talk all things breastfeeding, baby bellies, and the gut-brain connection. We dive into how gut health plays a crucial role in lactation, infant wellness, and postpartum healing—and how simple, supportive shifts can make a big impact. If you're a birth worker, new parent, or just a wellness nerd, this one’s for you! Connect with Mikaylan -  https://www.instagram.com/mikaylan_cushing/   Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

In this episode of Birth in Focus, I sit down with Olivia Dobson as she opens up about her first two birth experiences at a birth center and the unique journeys that shaped each one. Olivia also shares how those experiences are guiding her preparation for a planned home birth with her third baby. From navigating past births to embracing the excitement and unknowns of home birthing, Olivia’s story is honest, inspiring, and full of insights for anyone considering their own birth options. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that celebrates informed choices, birth variety, and the power of preparation! Connect w/ Olivia - https://www.instagram.com/the_y2k_estie/  BundleBorn Midwifery - Frisco Tx - https://www.bundleborn.com/  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

Did you know that you could seek Lactation Support BEFORE you even have your baby?? I’m so excited about today’s episode because we’re diving into a topic that so many new and expecting moms have questions about—getting a solid breastfeeding plan in place before baby arrives. And to help us navigate this, I’m sitting down with an absolute gem in the birth world—Amber Thomas of Mother Eve’s! Amber is an IBCLC with over 10 years of experience, and she’s helped hundreds of women on their breastfeeding journey. But beyond that, she’s been in the trenches as a childbirth educator, doula, and L&D nurse. She’s worked with families through WIC, hospitals across DFW, and now, she brings her passion directly into the homes of new moms—where they can truly learn and thrive in a comfortable, supportive space. In this episode, we’re talking about why it’s so important to meet with a lactation consultant before your baby arrives, how it can set you up for success, and what new moms can do to feel prepared and confident from day one.   Connect with Amber - www.motherevescss.com / www.instagram.com/motherevescss    Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

Cheyenne Varner is a nationally recognized certified birth worker, health equity advocate, and illustrator. She is the founder of The Educated Birth and Everyday Birth Magazine, platforms dedicated to advancing reproductive health equity through inclusive educational tools and amplifying underrepresented stories. **The Educated Birth Toolkit Binder! This incredible physical binder is packed with over 155 pages of anatomy, education, inclusive visuals, tools and exercises to support you in supporting clients along their pregnancy, labor, and postpartum journeys. It’s beautifully organized, easy to customize, built to last and looks amazing too. Use code INFOCUS at theeducatedbirth.store for 10% off. Seriously, it’s a game-changer—go check it out!   Follow The Educated Birth & The Everyday Birth Magazine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theeducatedbirth/ https://www.instagram.com/everydaybirth/  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

In Honor of Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month, in this episode I talked with Tracey Clifton who is a long time Photographer + Volunteer for Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep - Remembrance Portraits. NILMDTS offers the gift of healing, hope and honor to parents experiencing the death of a baby through the overwhelming power of remembrance portraits. Professional-level photographers volunteer their time to conduct an intimate portrait session, capturing the only moments parents spend with their babies. Parents are gifted with delicately retouched black and white digital portraits free of charge. To learn more about Volunteering with NILMDTS - Click Here Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

In honor of Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month, we share this episode in. hopes of sharing this life saving App, Count The Kicks. Kimberly Isburg is the Communications Manager for Healthy Birth Day, Inc., the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that created the Count the Kicks stillbirth prevention program. Kimberly used Count the Kicks to get to know her babies’ normal movement patterns during both of her pregnancies and is proud to be the mom of two boys. She is a passionate advocate for maternal health causes and is honored to work for an organization that is dedicated to improving birth outcomes and saving the lives of moms and babies.Visit www.CountTheKicks.org to learn more. Count The Kicks Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/countthekicksus/ Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

For the last 12 years Lacey has not only created a stir with her controversial images promoting women’s rights, but she has also cemented herself as one of the world's most talented and outspoken birth photographers. Lacey has been known to be unapologetically raw. She encapsulates the depths of the human soul in a single still image. Lacey has even been known to post herself nude up next to Kim Kardashian…why not? Ballsy and emotionally attached, Lacey strives to have women empowered through her imagery. Birth Photographer Of The Year - ENTER HERE  https://birthphotographeroftheyear.com/  https://www.instagram.com/birthphotographeroftheyear/  Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

Ft. Jessica Koiner IBCLC - Owner of The Milk Box As a mother of two, Jessica has personally struggled with breastfeeding and a myriad of other lactation issues. She was shocked at how challenging and complex breastfeeding could be after she had her first in 2017. These challenges inspired Jessica to undergo the years of training and education required in order to sit for the boards and become an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). She has a background in nutrition/dietetics, a bachelors in biology from TCU, and an interest in all things wellness. Caring for others and helping them reach their wellness goals is her lifelong passion and brings her such joy!   Jessica desires to equip you with knowledge, empower you with actionable steps, and arm you with support so that families can enjoy this exciting time. Talking about breastfeedng is not a soap box…it’s the Milk Box!   Follow Jessica - https://www.instagram.com/the_milk_box/ Work with Jessica - https://themilkbox.org/   Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

Darby Swan is a faith-based birth doula in Central Kentucky and the owner of Boundless Grace Birth Services. As a birth doula, childbirth educator, and maternal health advocate, Darby loves serving expectant families by providing faith-FULL support and evidence-based information. She is also a wife and mama of two, whose own birth experiences in 2020 inspired her to dive into the birth world headfirst and never look back. Darby hosts her own birth and motherhood podcast called "Birth By Design," and she is soon releasing a postpartum guide called "The Fourth Trimester: Navigating the Postpartum Period with Confidence."   Links: Website: https://boundlessgracebirth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boundlessgracebirth/ Birth By Design Podcast: https://boundlessgracebirth.com/podcast   FREE RESOURCE : Using Your B.R.A.I.N: A Doula's Guide to Informed Decision Making :https://boundlessgracebirth.com/free-guide    Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

The idiom "make a comeback" refers to the act of successfully returning or recovering from a setback, disappointment, or decline. It indicates the ability to regain former prominence, success, or relevance after a period of adversity or difficulty.   Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/ 

Sara Hunter is a FL based birth photographer, wife, and mom. Sara has taken 3 separate trips to visit and support the MamaBaby birth center in Haiti since 2020. She has taken thousands of photos to share with the families of Haiti. These photos are such a gift to the people and to the MamaBaby mission. MamaBaby “Haiti” International is a non-profit that runs three birth centers, health clinics, and a midwifery school in Haiti. They aim to lower the maternal and neonatal mortality rate one mother and baby at a time.   Birth In Focus Community Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/909240249740116/  Birth in Focus Website - www.samanthatollison.com/birthinfocus  Birth in Focus Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birthinfocuspodcast/  Samantha Tollison Birth Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/samanthatollisonbirth/  Sara Hunter on Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/saraannphoto/ MamaBaby Haiti on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mamababyhaiti/