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/