On this week's episode of Sense by Meg Faure, join us for a deeply insightful conversation with the inspiring Caitlyn De Beer – life coach, author, speaker, NPO founder, and mum of two, now expecting her third baby after a significant gap. Caitlyn shares her unique and honest journey through secondary infertility and IVF, intertwined with her strong faith and evolving perspective on motherhood. Caitlyn's Journey to Baby #3 Having conceived her first two children (now 8 and 9) spontaneously (though the first took time), Caitlyn faced unexpected challenges when trying for her third. A history of pelvic nerve issues had previously made another pregnancy seem unwise, but after a successful nerve procedure restored her health, she and her husband decided to try again. When pregnancy didn't happen after months of trying, they sought help, leading them down the path of fertility treatment. The IVF Experience: Caitlyn candidly discusses their experience with ICSI (a specialised form of IVF), initially indicated due to her husband's factors. She describes the supportive environment of the fertility clinic but also the unexpected shock when her own egg retrieval yielded only five eggs of poor quality. Facing the possibility of the cycle failing completely, they received the news that one precious embryo made it. Caitlyn reflects on the emotional rollercoaster – the comfort of relinquishing control to the process, but also the profound loneliness, especially when keeping the journey private from others, including her older children. A Seasoned Mum's Perspective: Ten years on from her last pregnancy, Caitlyn shares how her approach to motherhood has shifted. This time, she's intentionally choosing to "take it slow," rejecting the pressure to "bounce back" or rush through the demanding early years. She emphasizes the wisdom of cocooning, setting realistic expectations, and knowing that the intense season of raising young children does pass, allowing time for personal and professional goals later. It's about savouring the moments and not needing to prove anything. Maternal Mental Health: Caitlyn underscores the importance of support systems for maternal well-being. She stresses building a "village" – whether through family, friends, antenatal groups, or paid help like nannies (even if it requires financial sacrifices). Partner involvement is key. Crucially, Caitlyn shares her own powerful story of recognising she wasn't coping after her second child and seeking help via her GP and antidepressants, highlighting the need to destigmatise seeking medical or therapeutic support when needed. Understanding and addressing your own emotional needs is fundamental. Why Listen? This episode is essential listening for anyone navigating fertility challenges, contemplating a later-in-life baby, seeking encouragement in their faith journey, or wanting practical advice on protecting maternal mental health and embracing a gentler approach to parenting. 📌 Episode References: CONNECT WITH CAITLYN DE BEER: Instagram: instagram.com/caitlindebeer CONNECT WITH MEG FAURE Web: megfaure.com Facebook: facebook.com/MegFaure.Sense Instagram: instagram.com/megfaure.sense Parent Sense Mobile App: Web: parentsense.app Google Play: Download for Android iOS App Store: Download for iOS
On this week's episode of Sense by Meg Faure, we welcome back radio personality Zoe Brown, just weeks after the birth of her twin boys, Jordan and Luke! Joined by specialist midwife and twin mum Tasha Perreard, Zoe shares her incredibly raw, real, and ultimately empowering twin birth story. If you followed our last chat, Zoe was hoping for a vaginal delivery despite one twin being in a transverse position – listen now to hear how her journey unfolded. The Birth Story: Trusting Instincts & Strong Support Zoe takes us minute-by-minute through her induction process in the Australian public health system. She candidly discusses the challenges – a slow start, needing oxytocin, and the surprise of feeling contractions despite the epidural. The climax arrives with the birth of Baby A, followed by a tense period when her cervix closed and Baby B needed help descending. Zoe highlights the crucial role of a strong-willed midwife who advocated for her wishes, leading to a successful vaginal delivery for both twins, against the odds. She shares the emotional moments, the relief, and the surreal feeling of meeting her boys. Postpartum Recovery & Unexpected Challenges The journey didn't end with the birth. Zoe opens up about her experience with postpartum preeclampsia, including the symptoms and necessary monitoring. She also discusses the physical recovery after a twin vaginal birth, including diastasis recti (abdominal separation) and the early days of regaining core strength and bladder control. We touch upon the importance of hospital debriefs and physiotherapy support. Newborn Feeding Journey: Realities of Twins How do you feed two newborns? Zoe shares her honest experience with combination feeding – breastfeeding, expressing, and formula top-ups, especially after one twin needed glucose support due to low blood sugar levels (linked to gestational diabetes). She talks about the different tandem feeding positions, the challenges of doing it solo, and the crucial support from her husband. Midwife Tasha Perreard offers a fantastic practical tip for managing bottle and pump part sterilisation to save time! Expert Advice: Relaxing the Schedule & Co-Sleeping Zoe asks the burning question many new parents face: when can you relax the strict three-hourly feeding schedule? Meg and Tasha provide clear guidelines based on babies regaining their birth weight, advising on letting babies lead the way at night while maintaining a rhythm during the day. They also discuss the sensitive topic of co-sleeping twins, weighing the SIDS guidance against the reality that twins are often calmer together, emphasizing safe sleep practices. Consider tracking your twins' progress and routines easily with the Parent Sense app. This episode is a must-listen for expectant parents (especially of multiples!) 📌 Episode References & Links: 📲 CONNECT WITH MEG FAURE Web: megfaure.com Facebook: facebook.com/MegFaure.Sense Instagram: instagram.com/megfaure.sense 📱 Parent Sense Mobile App: Web: parentsense.app Google Play: Download for Android iOS App Store: Download for iOS 💌 Support the Podcast: Subscribe or listen on Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating & review on Apple Podcasts.
Podcast Summary: 9-Month-Old on the Move – Busy Baby Phase Introduction On this week's episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we dive into the exciting world of a 9-month-old baby. At this stage, babies are becoming more mobile, curious, and eager to explore their surroundings. They are constantly on the move, discovering new skills and testing their independence. This phase is full of milestones, from crawling and standing to babbling and engaging with the world. Parenting a baby at this stage can be both thrilling and exhausting, and we are here to guide you through it. Main Themes Discussed Developmental Milestones at 9 Months At nine months, babies experience rapid physical and cognitive growth. Many start crawling, pulling themselves up, and even cruising along furniture. Fine motor skills improve as they learn to grasp small objects and feed themselves. Their communication also advances, with more babbling, gestures, and social interactions. Busy Baby Behavior: Why They Never Stop Moving Babies at this stage have a strong drive to explore. They are naturally curious and use movement to learn about their environment. Parents may notice increased energy levels and a desire to be independent. This phase can be challenging, as babies may resist sitting still or following routines. Separation Anxiety and Attachment At nine months, many babies experience separation anxiety. They become more aware of their caregivers' presence and may protest when left alone. This is a normal developmental stage that reflects growing emotional bonds. We discuss strategies to ease transitions and support emotional security. Sleep Challenges and Routines With newfound mobility and curiosity, sleep can become more difficult. Babies may resist naps or wake up more at night. We offer practical tips to maintain a healthy sleep routine and create a calm bedtime environment. Why You Should Listen This episode is packed with insights to help parents navigate the busy baby phase with confidence. Understanding your baby's development makes parenting easier and more enjoyable. Whether you need support with movement, sleep, or emotional growth, this episode has practical advice for you. Tune in and learn how to embrace this exciting stage! About Our Guest: Julia da Silva is a dedicated and intentional mother of two who brings a unique perspective to the journey of motherhood. With a background marked by thoughtful planning and a commitment to making empowered choices, Julia’s experience as a mom is both inspiring and informative. Support or follow the podcast, here’s how: Subscribe, or listen on Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts Leave a 5* rating and review on Apple Podcasts Episode References and Links: 📱 Parent Sense App – Your all-in-one baby care app for routines, nutrition, and expert advice. Download it here. CONNECT WITH MEG FAURE Web: megfaure.com Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/MegFaure.Sense Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megfaure.sense/ Parent Sense website: https://parentsense.app/
🎙️ Episode Title: "Twin Tales: Inside Zoe Brown’s Journey to Twin Motherhood & Expert Tips from a Twin Specialist" 📣 Episode Description: On this week’s episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we dive into the fascinating world of twin pregnancy and parenting. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to carry, birth, and raise twins, this episode is a must-listen! Meg Faure is joined by two incredible guests: 👶 Zoe Brown – Media personality and soon-to-be twin mom, sharing her personal journey and birthing plans. 👩⚕️ Tasha Perreard – Twin specialist, nurse, and twin mom, offering expert advice on navigating twin pregnancy, birth, and early care. Together, they explore twin birth options, early newborn care, and feeding strategies—offering practical insights and real-life experiences for anyone preparing to welcome two little ones. 🗒️ In This Episode, You'll Learn: ✅ Twin Birth Options – Understanding the choices between vaginal delivery and C-section for twins. ✅ Early Newborn Care – The importance of skin-to-skin contact, delayed cord clamping, and early feeding. ✅ Feeding Twins – Expert tips on tandem breastfeeding, managing milk supply, and using the right feeding tools. ✅ Practical Preparation – How to prepare mentally and physically for twin parenting. 🔥 Why Listen? Whether you’re expecting twins, supporting someone who is, or simply curious, this episode delivers expert knowledge and real-life stories to guide you through the twin parenting journey. 📌 Episode References & Links: 📲 CONNECT WITH MEG FAURE Web: megfaure.com Facebook: facebook.com/MegFaure.Sense Instagram: instagram.com/megfaure.sense 📱 Parent Sense Mobile App: Web: parentsense.app Google Play: Download for Android iOS App Store: Download for iOS 🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Spotify: Listen on Spotify Apple Podcasts: Listen on Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts: Listen on Google Podcasts 💌 Support the Podcast: Subscribe or listen on Apple, Spotify, Google Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts Leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating & review on Apple Podcasts
On this week's episode of Sense, by Meg Faure, we dive into the fascinating world of baby development at eight months old. We follow baby Aurelia’s journey as she reaches exciting new milestones. Joined by Julia—mom to toddler Sante and baby Aurelia—we explore key developmental stages, from early movement to handling common challenges like teething and sleep struggles. This episode offers practical advice and heartwarming insights to support parents during this transformative time. 1. Movement Milestones: Crawling and Standing Aurelia is on the verge of crawling, a major milestone in her development. Crawling is more than just mobility—it supports cognitive growth and spatial awareness. Meg and Julia discuss how to encourage safe exploration while promoting motor skills. They also touch on the importance of allowing babies to move at their own pace. Baby Aurelia is already pulling herself to stand, showing the natural progression from sitting to standing. The conversation highlights ways to create a safe environment that fosters these emerging skills. 2. Managing Sleep and Teething Challenges Teething can be tough on babies and parents. This week’s episode shares practical strategies to soothe sore gums and ease discomfort. Meg and Julia discuss the role of probiotics in promoting gut health and reducing teething-related fussiness. Sleep disruptions are common at this stage, and the episode offers gentle techniques to improve rest. From establishing a bedtime routine to responding to night wakings, they provide realistic solutions to help babies and parents get better sleep. 3. Coping with Separation Anxiety Separation anxiety often appears around eight months and can be challenging. Meg and Julia explore why this happens and how to ease the transition. They discuss simple strategies, like consistent routines and comfort objects, to help babies feel secure. 4. Parenting Two: Life with a Toddler and Baby Balancing life with a toddler and a baby brings unique joys and challenges. Julia opens up about their recent family vacation and the dynamics of raising two young children. This section provides a glimpse into real-life parenting and the importance of flexibility and patience. Why You Should Listen This episode is packed with expert insights and real-life experiences to guide you through your baby’s eighth month. About Our Guest: Julia da Silva is a dedicated and intentional mother of two who brings a unique perspective to the journey of motherhood. With a background marked by thoughtful planning and a commitment to making empowered choices, Julia’s experience as a mom is both inspiring and informative. Support or follow the podcast, here’s how: Subscribe, or listen on Apple, Google Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts Leave a 5* rating and review on Apple Podcasts Episode References and Links: 📱 Parent Sense App – Your all-in-one baby care app for routines, nutrition, and expert advice. Download it here. CONNECT WITH MEG FAURE Web: megfaure.com Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/MegFaure.Sense Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/megfaure.sense/ Parent Sense website: https://parentsense.app/