Shows
Growing Up: BabyAccessing Pregnancy Care with a Disability“Disability is so unique from one person to the next in terms of how it impacts them outside of pregnancy and well as pregnancy.” Dr. Anne Berndl (MD MSc FRCSC) is the director of the Accessible Care Pregnancy Clinic at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in the Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine. The clinic provides holistic, individualized obstetrical care to patients living with physical disabilities. Care options are individualized to each patient and their family, with the goal of providing seamless and holistic care throughout planning, pregnancy, labour and the postpartum period.The Access...2025-04-0223 min
Growing Up: BabyUnderstanding ‘High Risk’ and Complicated Pregnancies“Every pregnancy is different. There is something of a risk at every step of the way in every pregnancy.” While there is no ‘perfect’ prenatal scenario, Dr. Dini Hui ensures an optimal outcome for her patients. As a maternal fetal medicine specialist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, she cares for and advises those who have a ‘high risk’ or complicated pregnancy through consultation, frequent visits and specialized testing. *This episode was recorded in 2024. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2025-03-2618 min
Growing Up: BabyPregnancy & Infant Loss: a Support Network“This experience of loss really changes who you are in the world — and changes you for the rest of your life.” Michelle La Fontaine is the manager of the Pregnancy & Infant Loss Network (PAIL) at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. As a bereaved mom herself, she guides grieving families with a full heart, connecting them with programs and resources. PAIL joined Sunnybrook in 2017 and aims to bring awareness to this uncomfortable topic while providing grief literacy and support to the wider community.*This episode was recorded in 2024. Please download, subscribe, follow an...2025-03-1927 min
Growing Up: BabyThe Overlooked Disease: Living with Endometriosis“I would go to emergency with extreme blood loss, clots, completely drained out. I was white like a piece of paper and they would send me back home with Tylenol.”Flora Kestin suffered for years with undiagnosed endometriosis. Her hellish journey began at the age of 14. She was eventually treated by Dr Jamie Kroft, one of Canada’s leading experts in the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis.Dr. Kroft, a gynecologist who specializes in minimally invasive surgery at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, has helped countless people regain control of their lives.V...2025-03-1226 min
Growing Up: BabyLucy’s Story: Born at 25 Weeks"We were absolutely terrified, and our biggest question was, 'is our baby going to die?' I didn't know anything about babies being born in the second trimester."Ten years ago, Karen Bong didn’t know if her daughter would make it home from Sunnybrook’s NICU. She is now the proud mother of two, and guides other new parents as the NICU’s Family Support Specialist. Dr. Eugene Ng is a neonatologist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. He outlines the processes and protocols in place for NICU support and how this ho...2025-03-0536 min
Growing Up: BabyTrailer: Sunnybrook SeriesThis five-part Sunnybrook Series features the lived experience of those navigating motherhood, trauma and loss, and the specialists, doctors and directors dedicated to supporting the most vulnerable of patients. Stream a new episode every Wednesday, beginning March 5. All guests on this podcast were provided by Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2025-03-0300 min
Growing Up: BabyLucy’s Story: Born at 25 Weeks“We were absolutely terrified, and our biggest question was, ‘is our baby going to die?’ I didn’t know anything about babies being born in the second trimester.” Ten years ago, Karen Bong didn’t know if her daughter would make it home from Sunnybrook’s NICU. She is now the proud mother of two, and guides other new parents as the NICU’s Family Support Specialist. Dr. Eugene Ng is a neonatologist at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. He outlines the processes and protocols in place for NICU support and how this hospital has the b...2025-01-2936 min
Growing Up: Baby"Listen to Me": Breaking the Silence around Traumatic Birth Experiences1 in 3 women who give birth will experience birth trauma, according to Healthline. A 2019 study asked how traumatic experiences could have been prevented. Frequent responses included feeling a loss of control, fearing for their babies life, high levels of pain, lack of communication about what was happening — and imploring health care professionals to “listen to me.” For one mother still suffering the effects of a traumatic birth experience, moving forward has been difficult. She desperately wants to become pregnant again — and believes her bungled delivery and subsequent lack of care has led to irreversible damage. ~ anonymous mother, b...2023-06-2842 minGrowing Up: BabyHer Mother's Daughter: Preparing for Twins“When a woman’s pregnant, she’s much more connected to the spiritual world, because those babies aren’t quite here yet.” Tabitha Curley’s twin boys will soon enter this world, much to the excitement of their big brother Mason. Tabitha is an intergenerational survivor from Six Nations, part of the Onondaga Nation Beaver Clan. Several of her family members were forced into residential schools, which drives her work at the Survivor’s Secretariat. She shares how she protects herself — and her unborn children — from this heavy undertaking. ~ Tabitha Curley, soon-to-be mom of three. Learn more...2023-06-2130 minGrowing Up: BabyReflections of a Doula“Nothing prepares you for the exhaustion and joy of bringing a beautiful life into the world.” An experienced doula — and mom of six — shares learnings from decades of trials and tribulations. Katia Maxwell advocates for informed decision making and encourages new moms to lean into and trust their instincts. She says that while every birth she attends is different, there are two commonalities that unite us all: pain and love. Katia Maxwell, doula, child birth educator, mom of six. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2023-06-1444 minGrowing Up: Baby2 Year Milestones: What To ExpectHow quickly they grow from curious crawlers to tearing-up-the-house toddlers. Between the age of 18-24 months, expect rapid brain growth and development leading to complex emotions, newfound independence and accelerated language and motor skills. This episode focuses on the importance of positive stimuli, key markers, and begs the question: are the terrible twos really that terrible? ~ Dr. Eugene Ng, newborn and developmental paediatrics, Toronto. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2023-06-0732 minGrowing Up: BabyPotty Training: Are You Both Ready?It’s an expense that most parents can’t wait to do without: the cost of diapers. Of course, potty training is also a significant milestone for your little — and you too. Before embarking on this diaper-free journey, consider having a solid plan in place and asking yourself two key questions to determine readiness. In this episode, potty training consultant Lily Horbatiuk shares tips and tricks to a successful transition. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2023-05-3120 minGrowing Up: BabyDr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa: Leading with PurposeDr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa leads a life of purpose. Heavily pregnant with her second child, Chika continues to write her memoir, advocate for the marginalized and work to end systemic racism in healthcare. In this episode, she shares how becoming a mother allows her to more deeply connect and empathize with her patients. Despite her professional successes, of which there are many, she puts happiness above all else — and wishes the same for her children. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2023-05-2426 minGrowing Up: BabyParenting 101: Ask the InternetOur Internet searches say a lot about us! This episode breaks down the top 5 online searches for the first half of 2023. From ‘lightning crotch’ (if you know, you know), to creepy crawlers in unmentionable places, the data is clear: parents are overwhelmed and looking for answers. Share a few laughs as we unpack and analyze what’s on Canadian parents’ minds. ~ Colleen Fisher Tully, freelance content writer & editor.Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2023-05-1728 minGrowing Up: BabyHow to Handle your Toddler's Separation AnxietyIt’s a gut wrenching feeling: Your toddler clinging to you while screaming and/or crying those big, real tears. If you’re struggling with dropping your little off at daycare, the babysitter, or with a loved one, you are not alone. In fact, separation anxiety is usually healthy and normal, and often shows a deep bond between parent and child. Explore attachment theory, and how a secure or insecure relationship may exacerbate these strong emotions. ~ Mirra Wicker, licensed clinical social worker, founder of Ohana Therapy. Host of the Connected Beginnings Facebook page. B...2023-05-1032 minGrowing Up: BabyGuided Exercise: Handling Separation AnxietyIn this bonus episode, Mirra Wicker walks me through a typical morning, before the dreaded daycare drop off. She shares coping mechanisms and strategies for alleviating some of the separation tension — because your child is likely sensing your anxiety, despite your best efforts to appear calm, cool, or collected. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2023-05-1011 minGrowing Up: BabyNaming Baby: How to ChooseIt's a big responsibility, naming that brand new tiny human! To choose the name they will carry for life, without even knowing who they are yet. Do you go for trendy, vintage, classic or quirky? Maybe there’s a family name you have to incorporate — but it’s dated, gendered, or downright unpalatable — what can you do? Steph Coffield is a mom-of-three turned content creator and name consultant. She uses her imagination, creativity, and even historical data to help parents find the perfect name for their little one. Please...2023-05-0328 minGrowing Up: BabyBeyond Exhausted: 18 Month Sleep RegressionWill you ever sleep again? Short answer: yes. When sleep is out of reach, thanks to miserable bedtimes, wakeful nights and early mornings, it can feel like a never ending cycle. While completely developmentally normal, the 18-month sleep regression is considered to be the toughest of the baby and toddler regressions. Rest easy, there are ways to manage — and survive — this trying time. ~ Bridget Jensen, consultant, Better Bedtime.Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2023-04-2617 minGrowing Up: BabyBehind The Lens with Vassy KapelosVassy Kapelos is a well known and respected Canadian journalist. While her on-air persona never wavered during her pregnancy, it was a different story behind the scenes. Vassy suffered from Hyperemesis, a debilitating and persistent disorder that gravely impacted her mental and physical well being. When her son was born, the symptoms disappeared — leading to her own feelings of rebirth. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2023-04-1924 minGrowing Up: Baby“Motherhood Is Funny” — with 'Shawna the Mom'You know those absurd ‘mom moments’ that leave you shaking your head? Shawna Lander perfectly captures the good, the bad — and the funny — as her character, ‘Shawna the Mom.’ Beneath the humour is a loving mom of two, journeying back to herself after surviving breast cancer, with gratitude and a fresh perspective. ~ Shawna Lander, creator, actor, writer. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2023-04-1222 minGrowing Up: BabyAdoption Story: Robyn & Daniel“Daniel isn't our adopted son. He's our son. Period.” Robyn and Mike adopted Daniel in 2011 after years of infertility, pregnancy loss, and heartache. They had just 10 days from when they were first told he existed until the day he came home for good. By fostering open communication, Robyn and Mike have created a safe space for Daniel to ask as many questions as he likes — which will be answered in due time. ~ Robyn Brady, mom of two: Daniel and Molly.~ Daniel Regnier, Robyn's son. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-12-1431 minGrowing Up: BabyMoms and Money: Preparing for Baby and BeyondDo you know the cost of raising a child in Canada? It may be higher than you think, which is why it’s so important to start planning. Learn budgeting, saving, and investing tips and explore what government benefits you may be eligible for. It’s never too early — or too late — to establish good spending habits to help secure your child’s financial future. ~ Sara Cook, Investment Advisor, Cook and Associate, BMO Nesbitt Burns. This episode is brought to you by Cook and Associates BMO Nesbitt Burns. Proudly supporting families and businesses through Sou...2022-12-0731 minGrowing Up: BabyYour Body, Your Choice: Delivery & FeedingNavigating pre and postnatal care can be overwhelming for many first time moms. There are certain expectations that women face, including how to give birth and how to feed their child. Heading into her first pregnancy, Jessica was clear on her choices: she wanted a cesarean on maternal request — and wasn’t planning to breastfeed. ~ Jessica Pratezina, PhD student in Interdisciplinary Studies (Child and Youth Care and Sociology), University of Victoria, first time mom. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-11-3031 minGrowing Up: BabyMeghan's Hope: A Mother's LossLosing a child is every parent’s worst nightmare. Kimberly Amato turned her grief into action following the tragic and preventable death of her daughter Meghan. Her advocacy work — and tribute site — has informed, educated, and paved the way for higher safety standards for dressers and other clothing storage furniture.~ Kimberly Amato, Vice Chair, Parents Against Tip-Overs.Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-11-2328 minGrowing Up: BabyMom Guilt (If You Know, You Know)If you’re struggling with the so-called “Mom Guilt” this episode is for you. There’s no ‘perfect parent’ who gets everything right all the time, despite what we see on social media. By adjusting our thought patterns and responses, we can learn to manage the little things — so we can appreciate the big picture moments. ~ Doctor Tanya Cotler, adult and child clinical psychologist, Toronto. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-11-1630 minGrowing Up: BabyMom Exec: Balancing Work & FamilyThe stress of motherhood is real. Burnout exists. The juggling act can feel overwhelming. By recognizing the signs of fatigue, we can work toward the holy grail: balancing your kid(s) and your career. From setting firm boundaries and showing ourselves grace — to drilling down to what’s really important — it's time to take a deep breath and enjoy the ride. ~ Leigh Duncan, mom of three and executive director of public affairs and communications, Ontario-based hospital. ~ Madison Cox, mom of two and director and chief of staff, Ontario-based University. Please...2022-11-0922 minGrowing Up: BabyDaylight Saving Time: Preparing Your Sleep ScheduleIt can be so difficult to establish a nap or bedtime routine with your little one. And it’s so frustrating when something happens to throw that schedule off. With Daylight Saving Time quickly approaching on Saturday, here are some tips on how to adjust and (hopefully) get back to normal — whatever your normal is!~ Bridget Jensen, sleep consultant, Better Bedtime Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-11-0214 minGrowing Up: BabyOne Year MilestonesIf you’ve reached that one year anniversary — congratulations! If you’re not quite there yet, here’s a sneak peek at what to expect in terms of physical, cognitive, social, and communication/language milestones. There’s also newfound independence, lots of ‘testing’ — and innate and insatiable curiosity. Get ready for this exciting new chapter. ~ Dr. Eugene Ng, newborn and developmental paediatrics, Toronto. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-10-2628 minGrowing Up: BabyNew Mom at 41Becoming a new mom is daunting enough — not only are you preparing for a massive lifestyle change, your mental and physical health is about to transform too. Embarking on this journey at an advanced age comes with its own set of challenges, including the possibility of increased complications and societal stigma. Luckily, later-in-life pregnancies have become the norm.~ Candace Cobbing, TV producer, soon-to-be new Mom.Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-10-1919 minGrowing Up: BabyWhat is... The Fourth Trimester?Are you home from the hospital, new baby in bassinet, and still feel a bit confused by it all? Not to worry — those blurry, hazy days are completely normal, and even have a name. The first 12 weeks after giving birth is referred to as the ‘fourth trimester.’ Not only is your new baby going through changes, you are too! Your body is adjusting: organs are shifting back into place, milk is being produced, and hormones are working to regulate. So, give yourself the time, space, and grace to heal and adjust as you find your way.~...2022-10-1223 minGrowing Up: BabyAlyson Schafer: Parenting Matters“Most parents are doing just fine. It’s sloppy and messy, and you’re going to get upset. Some days are harder than others; if that’s the best you had today, it was good enough.” One of Canada’s leading parenting experts talks behavioural patterns, corrective strategies, and setting boundaries in a kind and loving way. It’s never too early to figure out what kind of parent you want — or need — to be!~ Alyson Schafer, family counselor, parenting expert, author and international public speaker. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-10-0528 minGrowing Up: BabyAre You Ready For Childcare?Whether your baby is two months old, or a year-and-a-half, embarking on the childcare journey can be overwhelming. There are a number of important decisions to make, like when and where, but you’re also preparing yourself (and them) for this massive change. A mom and freelance journalist shares advice and learnings from her own experience. ~ Jenn Sinrich, freelance journalist and content strategist who writes for a myriad of publications including WhatToExpect.com, Well+Good, Oxygen Magazine, Women's Health, SELF and more. She is also the proud mom of a 3-year-old, Mila and a baby bo...2022-09-2821 minGrowing Up: BabyGot Milk? You Could Save LivesGot Milk? If you find yourself with an oversupply of breast milk, The Rogers Hixon Ontario Milk Bank may be a viable option for you. This passion project was started nearly two decades ago and is still the only milk bank in Ontario to collect, pasteurize and provide donated breast milk to hospitalized babies. ~ Sarah Petrick, beneficiary, mom of premature twin boys. ~ Debbie Stone, director, The Rogers Hixon Ontario Milk Bank. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-09-2127 minGrowing Up: BabyGendered Parenting: Mom & DadDo you and your partner adhere to traditional gender roles? If so, what impact does that have on your parenting style — and your relationship? If you’re feeling overwhelmed or burnt out by societal pressures and expectations, you’re not alone! Unpack the invisible ties that bind, and discover how you and your family can work toward meaningful change.~ Jessica Pratezina, MA, PhD student, child and youth care, Sociology, University of Victoria.Listen to It's About Time: How Moms and Dads Can Share the Care here. Please...2022-09-1424 minGrowing Up: BabyLauren Davis Shirakawa: A Cautionary TaleLike so many new moms, 24-year-old Lauren Davis struggled to breastfeed her infant son. She was prescribed domperidone, which is often used off-label to induce lactation. When she tragically died in her sleep, her parents suspected a link between her death and the medication. Seven years later, they graciously share Lauren’s story so other women may proceed with caution. ~ Erin Davis and Rob Whitehead, Lauren’s parents Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-09-0734 minGrowing Up: BabySeason One in 2 MinutesThanks for listening! Here's what you heard during Season 1 (and, what you didn't hear). Until next time...Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-07-0602 minGrowing Up: BabyIt Takes a VillageCommunity building (or finding) is so important during this exciting yet challenging time. How connecting with like minded people benefits your mental, emotional and physical well-being. And, veteran parents share words of wisdom for new moms and dads. Gillian Kuriyan, director of Mommy Connections, Midtown Toronto.Hayley, new mom, teacher & program facilitator.Special thanks to: Sara, Rosie, Daryl, Josh, Alana, Paul, Harmony, Catherine. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-06-2831 minGrowing Up: BabyFeeling Good: Back to YouGoing through pregnancy and delivery is a lot. It's tough on your emotional, mental and physical well-being. Forget the number on the scale or fitting into your pre-baby jeans. This episode focuses on building strength and confidence, so you can feel good, wherever you're at. Jessica Sennet, certified personal trainer CPT and Prenatal and Postpartum Fitness Specialist. Founder and CEO of Mighty Mom.Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-06-2230 minGrowing Up: BabyBabyproofing: Safety FirstAre your stairs gated? Is your furniture anchored? Are sharp objects within reach? There’s so much to consider when babyproofing your home and surroundings. Prevention truly is at the heart of child safety; learn what steps you can take to ensure peace of mind. Lucy, mom of two, shares a traumatic story involving a buggy (stroller).Nancy Reynolds, owner, BabySecure & Advanced Certified Professional Childproofer.David Drutz, owner, Kiddie Proofers. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-06-1528 minGrowing Up: BabyMaking Music with BabyMusic truly is the universal language; connecting all ages, backgrounds and cultures. Making music with your little one is fun and engaging, but did you know it’s also educational? Learn how the components of sound act as early building blocks of language and communication. Making Music Together’s Risa Waldman shares her emotional adoption journey with music — and a baby girl — at its heart. *PROMO* Use promo code BABYPODCAST to receive $20.00 off a summer OR fall Making Music Together session! Click here for more information. Risa Waldman, director...2022-06-0722 minGrowing Up: BabyBedtime StoriesThese short sleep stories are for you, tired parent. A reminder that if you’re exhausted and don’t have bed or naptime figured out, you’re not alone. Three Moms and a Dad share their challenges — from restless sleepers and regressions — to trial and error successes. A sleep consultant explains what’s behind those 2 a.m. wake up calls. Liz, Mom of 18 month old Rich, Dad of 4 month old Bex, Mom of 16 month old Kelsey, Mom of two; 10.5 month old and 4 year old Bridget Jensen, sleep consultant, Better Bedtime. Bridget also appeared in episode 3, Sleep like a baby.Pl...2022-05-3140 minGrowing Up: BabySwimming with Baby“Accidents happen quickly. Water can be fun, but we need to be safe in and around it.” From bathtubs and pools to natural bodies of water, this episode focuses on building water confidence, safely. Learn the basic safety precautions that save lives, and how to get your little one comfortable in water (you can help!) It’s never too early — or too late — to make a splash.Carolyn, mom of two, Parent & Tot: Love to Bubble swimming lessons. Davina Lopez, owner, Davina’s Swim House. Avi Kerbel, mom of three, used First Aid on her infant son. 2022-05-2421 minGrowing Up: BabyMom of Multiples x2Ever wonder what it’s like to have twins? Or… what the odds are of having TWO sets? Mom of four Molly Malone is a self-made twin expert: from myth busting and learned experience, to words of advice and what not to say to a mom of multiples. And — Dr. Ng sheds light on the statistics around multiples, and shares his own thoughts on being a twin Dad. Molly Malone, mom of two sets of twin boys.Dr. Eugene Ng, newborn and developmental paediatrics, Toronto. Dr. Ng is featured in episode 11, Paediatri...2022-05-1731 minGrowing Up: BabyThe (Hard) Truth about BreastfeedingThe benefits of breastfeeding are well documented, but that doesn’t mean the experience is without challenge — an LC shares advice and reassurance. Unpack the ‘Breast is Best’ narrative and understand the impetus behind the ‘Fed is Best’ movement. Dr. Christie del Castillo-Hegyi, emergency physician and co-founder, Fed is Best.Mary Lynne Biener, IBCLC, Kindercare Pediatrics, and founding member, The Breastfeeding Collective. Kesha, mom of two. You can listen to Tracey’s story here. Her difficult breastfeeding journey led to a diagnosis of Postpartum Depression and a rock bottom moment involving her newborn son. Please downlo...2022-05-1055 minGrowing Up: BabyFlying with BabyPlanning a trip but feeling anxious about air travel with your little one? That's understandable — but it’s totally manageable with preparation, patience, and a positive attitude. Tune in for tips and tricks on airline allowances, seating options, and on-board essentials. Yashy Murphy, digital creator and travel writer; curator of parentingtogo.ca. Ben, new dad. Growing Up: Baby is listed by Feedspot as one of the 80 Best Mom podcasts. Please download, subscribe, follow and share. 2022-05-0323 min