Shows
Dear NICU MamaS10 E20 | Carey | Three Surgeries, 113 Days, and Finding Her NICU SistersIn this week’s episode, we sit down with Carey, a remarkable NICU mom and cherished member of our Dear NICU Mama community and team. Carey vulnerably shares her story of an unexpected diagnosis of preeclampsia just days after moving across the country—and the delivery of her daughter Eliana at 29 weeks.From navigating a 113-day NICU stay, including multiple heart surgeries and a G-tube journey, to processing the emotional weight of bonding, fear, and healing, Carey speaks with honesty and grace. She also reflects on the power of connection, sharing how Walking Letter of Hope Day led...2025-07-1651 min
NICU Alumni PodcastWhile I Breathe: Susan Reynolds on Parenting, Loss, and Advocacy After the NICUIn this episode of the NICU Alumni Podcast, we speak with Susan Reynolds, author of While I Breathe, about her journey as a NICU mom to her son Ryan, who was born prematurely and diagnosed with Down syndrome. Susan reflects on the lasting impact of their NICU experience and how Ryan’s life and his passing continue to shape her purpose and advocacy. Drawing from her background in pediatric medicine and bioethics, she shares meaningful insights on family-centered care, the power of advocacy, and the ways she honors Ryan’s legacy through education and storytelling.Connect with Susa...2025-07-0832 minDear NICU MamaAndrea | Two-Time NICU Mom & NICU Alumni FounderIn this week’s episode, we’re honored to welcome Andrea Hickson—two-time NICU mom and founder of NICU Alumni. Andrea shares the emotional and unexpected journeys of welcoming her daughters Lucy and Felicity, both born prematurely and with unique NICU experiences. From emergency C-sections and hospital stays to navigating life at home with early intervention and a later cerebral palsy diagnosis, Andrea vulnerably opens up about what it means to parent in the unknown.She also shares how her personal journey inspired the creation of NICU Alumni, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families after NICU discharge with r...2025-06-251h 01Dear NICU MamaNavigating Friendships After Birth and NICU Trauma with The Birth Trauma MamaIn this episode of the Dear NICU Mama podcast, we're joined once again by the remarkable Kayleigh Summers, also known as The Birth Trauma Mama, for a heartfelt conversation about how friendships shift in the wake of birth trauma and NICU experiences.Together, Ashley, Aisha, and Kayleigh open up about the grief of changing relationships, the identity shifts that happen after trauma, and the surprising ways connection can still be found. From feeling misunderstood to discovering unexpected community, this episode offers validation, insight, and encouragement for any NICU or loss mom navigating friendships during their healing journey.2025-06-1143 minNICU Alumni PodcastWeek 26: Jennifer Bernardo’s NICU Journey and Life AfterIn this episode of the NICU Alumni Podcast, we welcome Jennifer Bernardo, author of Week 26. Jennifer shares her story of having twins born at just 26 weeks and their four-month NICU stay. We explore the emotional toll of life in the NICU, the transition home, and the critical role of community support. Jennifer opens up about writing her memoir and including multiple perspectives to capture the complexity of the NICU journey. She offers heartfelt advice for families facing similar paths, reminding listeners of the value of preparation, the power of advocacy, and the importance of cherishing each moment....2025-06-1031 minDear NICU MamaSam | Navigating the NICU and Medical Motherhood - Part 2In this week’s episode, we continue part 2 of Sam’s remarkable motherhood journey as she opens up about the emotional and physical toll of life after a traumatic birth and the journey of becoming a NICU and medical mama.Sam shares vulnerably about her daughter’s fragile start after being born at 24 weeks, the devastating reality of an MDR E-Coli diagnosis at just five days old, and the long road to recovery in the NICU—including respiratory setbacks, feeding challenges, and two unexpected surgeries. She also offers insight into navigating life after discharge with a G-tube, and how...2025-06-0457 minDear NICU MamaNICU Life During Deployment: Sarah’s StoryIn this week’s episode, we sit down with Sarah Hogan, a courageous NICU mom and military spouse, whose story embodies the truth that the NICU is a marathon, not a sprint. Sarah shares her high-risk pregnancy and the traumatic sequence of events that led to her daughter Sadie’s premature birth at 28 weeks—beginning with a seizure while driving with her sons and her husband deployed on a submarine.Sarah vulnerably walks us through the emotional weight of parenting two young boys during a months-long NICU stay, navigating a four-hour daily commute, and adapting to life after...2025-05-281h 18NICU Alumni PodcastLearning to Be a Medical Family and Life After the NICU with Dr. Jessica AllenIn this episode of the NICU Alumni Podcast, Andrea is joined by Dr. Jessica Allen, a gerontologist, and proud adoptive mama. Jessica shares her family’s NICU experience after her daughter was born prematurely with short bowel syndrome. She speaks about advocating for her daughter’s care, navigating life as a working parent, and learning to manage complex medical needs. This conversation is filled with empathy, encouragement, and practical tips for all families preparing for life after the NICU.Jessica talks about the emotional weight of discharge, what it means to become a medical family after the NICU...2025-05-2742 minDear NICU MamaHappy Mother’s Day, NICU Mama - Live Recording!In this special episode, we’re holding space for the complicated emotions that can come with Mother’s Day after a NICU experience.This conversation is close to our hearts—it’s a live recording from our recent Dear NICU Mama Virtual Live Podcast Event, where we gathered with NICU moms from across the country to connect, reflect, and honor the duality of this season!In this roundtable discussion, hosts Ashley and Martha sit down with members of the Dear NICU Mama team to talk about what it means to celebrate Mother’s Day after the NICU—w...2025-05-0848 minNICU Alumni PodcastHealing Through Story: Jen Mansfield on Grief After the NICUIn this episode of the NICU Alumni Podcast, host Andrea Hickson speaks with Jen Mansfield, a licensed professional counselor and mother, who shares her profound journey through the NICU and the loss of her son, Adam, born at 24 weeks.Jen reflects on the overwhelming experience of the NICU, the meaningful connections with the staff, and the support from her community. She discusses the challenges of transitioning home after Adam's passing and the healing practices that helped her navigate grief, including narrative therapy. Jen's story is one of resilience, love, and the importance of community support during difficult...2025-05-0639 minDear NICU MamaReplay Roundtable: Building Bonds & Honoring NICU Moms This Mother’s DayIn this week's roundtable replay, Co-Founders Ashley and Martha are joined by Dear NICU Mama editorial team member Lindsay for an honest conversation all about bonding with our NICU babies. Together, they reflect on the tender, complicated, and deeply personal journey of building a bond in the NICU—what it looked like for them, how they navigated grief, fear, and comparison, and how bonding continued to grow once they were home.Whether your bond felt instant, delayed, or still evolving, this episode is a reminder that your baby knows your love, and your bond is more than fe...2025-04-301h 18Dear NICU MamaRebekah | Elias' NICU Journey Part 2In this episode, we continue with part two of NICU mom Rebekah and her son Elias. After a traumatic birth and critical early days in the NICU, Rebekah shares what came next—the challenges of feeding, navigating a brain injury diagnosis, and the emotional weight of waiting for answers.Rebekah opens up about the realities of parenting a medically complex child, the grief of letting go of her original feeding goals, and the healing that came when she embraced Elias’s unique path. She shares honestly about life at home post-discharge, the process of receiving a cerebral pals...2025-04-1750 minDear NICU MamaRebekah | Elias’ NICU Journey Part 2In this episode, we continue with part two of NICU mom Rebekah and her son Elias. After a traumatic birth and critical early days in the NICU, Rebekah shares what came next—the challenges of feeding, navigating a brain injury diagnosis, and the emotional weight of waiting for answers.Rebekah opens up about the realities of parenting a medically complex child, the grief of letting go of her original feeding goals, and the healing that came when she embraced Elias’s unique path. She shares honestly about life at home post-discharge, the process of receiving a cerebral pals...2025-04-1655 minDear NICU MamaRebekah | Elias' NICU Journey Part 1In this week’s episode, we sit down with NICU mom and fierce advocate Rebekah, who vulnerably shares the extraordinary story of her son Elias’s birth and beginning of life. Rebekah walks us through her story of a sudden placental abruption at 28 weeks, an emergency C-section during the early days of COVID-19, and the hours that followed when Elias was flown by helicopter to a Level IV NICU in critical condition.With immense amounts of vulnerability, Rebekah opens up about the terrifying uncertainty of those first days, and the powerful moment of hope when Elias took his...2025-04-091h 01Dear NICU MamaS10 E8 | Baby Showers Mini Series Ep4: Navigating Baby Showers After the NICU - Live Recording!Welcome to Episode 4 of our Baby Showers Mini Series!In this final episode of the series, we’re exploring a topic that can feel especially tender: attending baby showers after a NICU experience.This conversation is extra special—it’s a live recording from our very first Dear NICU Mama Live Podcast Event! We gathered virtually with NICU moms from across the country for a night of connection and storytelling.In this roundtable discussion, hosts Ashley and Aisha sit down with Dear NICU Mama team members Vilma and Carolissa to talk about...2025-04-031h 07Dear NICU MamaBaby Showers Mini Series Ep2: Attending Your Own Baby Shower While Your Baby is in the NICUWelcome to Episode 2 of our Baby Showers Mini Series!This week, we’re diving into the experience of attending a baby shower while your baby is in the NICU—a reality that many NICU moms never expected to face.For some, baby showers are filled with excitement and joy. But for those navigating a NICU journey, they can bring complex emotions, unexpected grief, and even difficult decisions about whether to attend, postpone, or celebrate in a different way. In this roundtable conversation, hosts Ashley and Aisha sit down with Dear NICU Mama team memb...2025-03-121h 02Dear NICU MamaLauren | Audrey's NICU JourneyIn this episode, we sit down with NICU mom and Joy of Creative Play founder, Lauren, as she shares her extraordinary story of navigating a high-risk pregnancy, in-utero procedures, and the overwhelming uncertainty of a rare diagnosis. Lauren opens up about the realities of facing the unknown, the power of advocating for her daughter’s care, and the unexpected ways joy and hope showed up along the way.She also reflects on the challenges of bonding after a traumatic birth, the emotional toll of the NICU journey, and how her experience inspired her to create resources that br...2025-02-191h 07Dear NICU MamaAshton | Evans’ NICU JourneyHappy Valentines Day, NICU mamas! In this episode, we are honored to welcome Ashton, a well-known Enneagram expert, content creator, and fellow NICU mama, as she shares her unexpected journey into the NICU.Ashton’s pregnancy with her second child, Evans, seemed routine, until an unexpected bleed at 33 weeks changed everything. What started as a quick check-in at the hospital turned into an urgent C-section, leaving Ashton to process the whirlwind of emotions that followed. She opens up about the shock of an early delivery, the challenges of navigating life with a toddler at home while her ne...2025-02-131h 04NICU Alumni PodcastHonoring a Legacy: Advocacy and Support After the NICU with Misti StaleyIn this heartfelt episode of the NICU Alumni Podcast, Misti Staley shares her profound journey as a mother who faced unimaginable challenges with her son Freeman, who spent significant time in the NICU and PICU. After losing Freeman, Misti transformed her grief into advocacy, creating the Freeman Foundation and developing innovative solutions for families facing similar struggles. Our conversation explores the emotional rollercoaster of NICU life, the importance of community support, and the healing power of connection during times of loss. We discuss the profound impact of grief, the balance between supporting others and caring for oneself, t...2025-02-0450 min
Ask a NICU Mama PodcastFrom NICU Nurse to Medical Mama: A Journey of Care and Compassion with RobynIn this episode of the Ask a NICU Mama podcast, host Ashley O'Neil speaks with NICU nurse Robin who shares her experiences both as a healthcare professional and a
mother to a child with complex medical needs. She discusses the importance of family involvement in NICU care, bonding with babies, navigating resources, and the emotional impact of a cytomegalovirus (CMV) diagnosis. Robin emphasizes the
need for advocacy, support systems, and education for families facing similar challenges. The conversation also touches on personal growth, maintaining relationships, and preparing families for discharge from the NICU. You do not want to miss t...2025-01-2836 minNICU Alumni PodcastPreparing for Parenthood After the NICU with Ashli The Mama CoachIn this episode of the NICU Alumni Podcast, host Andrea Hickson speaks with Ashli Daly, a registered nurse and baby coach, about her journey from working in the NICU to supporting families as they transition home. Ashli shares her experience working in various NICUs, the importance of seeking help, and how her background informs her current practice as Ashli The Mama Coach. The discussion also covers practical advice for new parents, including the importance of giving oneself grace and persevering as you seek answers.Quick Notes from the Episode:Support from healthcare professionals is...2025-01-1431 minDear NICU MamaNavigating the Holidays in the NICU: A Roundtable EpisodeThe holiday season is often filled with joy, but for families in the NICU, it can also bring a unique set of challenges and emotions. In this roundtable episode, Aisha is joined by fellow NICU moms Kamille and Taylor, who share their experiences of spending the holidays in the NICU with their babies!Together, they share what it’s like to navigate the holiday season while balancing the realities of a NICU stay, the grief of missing milestones, and the beauty of creating meaningful moments even in difficult circumstances. Kamille and Taylor reflect on the moments of jo...2024-12-1847 minDear NICU MamaSerenity | Amirah's NICU JourneyWe are excited to be back after the Thanksgiving break! On today’s episode, we have the opportunity to hear Serenity’s NICU journey with her daughter Amirah. Serenity opens up about her unexpected high-risk pregnancy and her daughter Amirah’s premature birth at 25 weeks.Through her story, she reflects on the challenges of balancing life as a NICU mom and a full-time student, the difficult decisions she faced along the way, and the moments of hope and healing that have shaped her into the fierce advocate and loving mother she is today.Now thriving as a s...2024-12-0454 minDear NICU MamaMakayla | Winona's NICU JourneyIn this episode, Makayla shares her journey of navigating the NICU as a single mom. She opens up about her pregnancy, her intuition that something unexpected was ahead, and the sudden complications that led to an early delivery and a challenging start for her daughter, Winona.Makayla reflects on the emotional experience of seeing Winona in critical condition, the many moments of fear and hope, and the incredible resilience she witnessed as her daughter defied the odds. She also speaks candidly about the unique challenges and strength required to face the NICU journey without a partner, finding...2024-11-0646 min
Dear NICU MamaTaylor | Selah's NICU JourneyIn this week’s podcast episode, Taylor shares her unique journey of becoming a NICU mom through adoption. She opens up about her and her husband’s decision to adopt, their struggles with infertility, and the emotional experience of meeting their daughter, Selah, who was born four weeks early and spent a month in the NICU. Taylor reflects on the challenges of navigating both adoption and the NICU experience, how they celebrate Selah’s milestones today, and what life at home looks like as a family of three!As you listen to Taylor’s story, we hope tha...2024-10-231h 05
Dear NICU MamaMollie | Athena + Veronica's NICU JourneysIn this episode, Mollie shares her motherhood story of carrying identical twin girls, navigating a high-risk pregnancy, and experiencing both the joy of motherhood and the heartbreak of loss. Mollie opens up about the unexpected challenges she faced as a NICU mom, from giving birth at 26 weeks to her daughter Veronica’s fight for survival in the NICU, and the devastating loss of her daughter Athena. She reflects on the emotional journey of healing, the complexities of navigating life after loss, and how she honors Athena’s memory while celebrating Veronica’s milestones today.As you listen...2024-10-161h 12NICU Alumni PodcastEmpowering NICU Parents with Nicole Nyberg a NICU NP and NICU MomNicole Nyberg is the proud mother of a former 23-weeker and a Neonatal Nurse Practitioner. With her unique perspective as both a clinical expert and a micropreemie mom, she’s dedicated to sharing her knowledge and experience. Nicole is the Founder and CEO of Empowering NICU Parents, providing education, support, and empowerment for parents and clinicians, focusing on how parental involvement in the NICU positively impacts an infant's long-term development. She's also a podcast host and author of Our NICU Roadmap, a daily NICU journal that guides and empowers parents through their NICU journey.2024-09-1742 minNICU Alumni PodcastFamily-Centered Care in the NICU and beyond - Cristal GroganCristal Grogan shares her experience of her son's NICU stay overseas in Spain and the challenges they faced. She discusses the language barriers, socialized medicine, and lack of family-centered care in the NICU. Cristal emphasizes the importance of parent advocacy and education, as well as long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. She also highlights the need for support and resources for families, especially those with children with complex medical and mental health needs. Cristal's journey has led her to become an advocate for NICU parents and children with special needs. In this conversation, Cristal Grogan shares her journey as a p...2024-08-0648 min
Dear NICU MamaLife After NICU With The NICU TranslatorOn this week’s episode we have a conversation about life after NICU with Mary Farrelly with The NICU Translator! Mary Farrelly is a certified NICU nurse, doula, nurse educator, mom of two and the founder of The NICU Translator where she helps to bridge the gap between the NICU and home through education, community and 1:1 support.In this episode we continue our theme of life after NICU and Mary shares how she got started, and her heart to provide support for NICU families once they are home. She also develops curriculums to train nurses on how...2024-07-3142 min
Dear NICU MamaDaniela | Mateo's NICU Journey + Walking Letter of Hope Day!Walking Letter of Hope Day is THIS SUNDAY, July 28th! And to celebrate, we have the honor of sharing Daniela’s NICU journey with her full-term son Mateo. She shares openly about her unexpected complications during labor that lead to an extended NICU stay, what it was like to deliver and navigate the NICU during the pandemic, and how she found the courage to grow her family again. We also chat about what being a #walkingletterofhope means to her and how she found hope and healing after the NICU.We hope that as you listen to Da...2024-07-231h 04
Dear NICU MamaCarrie | Hattie's NICU Journey Part 1On this week's podcast episode, we have part one of team member Carrie’s journey with her daughter Hattie! Carrie is a full-term NICU mom to Hattie who spent 19 days in the NICU. Throughout Carrie’s pregnancy, Carrie worked alongside a doula and took hypnobirthing classes with the hope of having an all-natural birth. However once at the hospital, it was discovered that Hattie was breech and Carrie was leaking fluid, and an emergency c-section was ordered.5 hours after Hattie was born, Hattie was transferred to the NICU for additional breathing support. After a handful of unsu...2024-05-3058 minNICU Alumni PodcastThe Baby Steps Program: A Transition of Care Model Supporting Families After the NICUDr. Danielle A. Cierak and Flor Tena discuss their work in the NICU and the challenges families face after leaving the hospital. They developed the Baby Steps transition of care model to support NICU patients and families during the difficult period after discharge.The Baby Steps program provides support to families after their NICU stay, helping them transition to home and navigate the challenges of caring for their baby. The program starts when a dedicated telehealth NICU nurse meets with families before discharge and then continues with a virtual call post-discharge where a nurse can help troubleshoot...2024-05-2834 min
Dear NICU MamaHappy Mother's Day, NICU MamaHappy Mother’s Day, NICU mama! We know for many of us, holidays like Mother’s Day can be tender - especially if you are celebrating in the NICU. This week’s episode is a mini episode where co-hosts Aisha and Ashley and members of our sisterhood share how they celebrate and have celebrated Mother’s Day! We hope this episode is a reminder to celebrate in a way that honors your heat.This episode’s prompt was, “Tell us how you celebrate Mother’s Day. Whether you celebrated your first Mother’s Day in the NICU or How you...2024-05-0827 min
Dear NICU MamaKerrie | NICU Mama Becomes NICU NurseOn today’s episode of the Dear NICU Mama podcast we have the very special privilege to talk with NICU mama and NICU nurse, Kerrie! Kerrie’s daughter Kate was born prematurely at 25 weeks gestation due to an abruption and fetal distress. She spent three months in the NICU before coming home to meet her brother and sisters, and she is now three and thriving!Kerrie has been a registered nurse for over 15 years working mostly in a hospital setting caring for the adult population. Her NICU journey gave her a whole new respect for being a pa...2024-05-0150 minNICU Alumni PodcastTube Feeding After the NICU and Transitioning to Oral Feeds with Darla VazquezDarla Vazquez shares her journey as a NICU parent and the challenges she faced raising her son, who was born prematurely and spent 203 days in the NICU. She discusses the importance of advocacy and the need for support in navigating the medical system. Darla also talks about her work in helping families transition their children from G-tube feeding to oral eating, providing resources and guidance for parents in similar situations. In this conversation, Andrea speaks with Darla about life after the NICU and the significance of self-care and advocacy. Darla shares advice for families as they navigate the healing...2024-04-2337 min
Dear NICU MamaREPLAY | Supporting Older Siblings While in the NICU with Child Life On CallThis week’s podcast episode is a replay episode from season 6 of the Dear NICU Mama podcast! For the NICU mamas in our sisterhood who find themselves splitting time between their children at home and children in the NICU, we hope you feel seen and heard by this episode.Use code “nicumama” for 50% off Katie’s How to prepare, support and respond to your child during shots course! Find the episode transcription here.-------This week, we have the privilege of speaking with Katie Taylor from Child Life On Call! One of t...2024-03-2751 min
Dear NICU MamaCarolissa | Elizabeth's NICU Journey Part 2On this week's podcast episode, we have part two of team member Carolissa’s journey with her daughter Elizabeth! Elizabeth was born at 31 weeks and had a 56 day NICU stay. Throughout this episode, Carolissa shares openly about what it was like to split time in the NICU with Elizabeth and time with her older daughter Sophia at home, and what it was like to transition to life as a family of four at home.To any other NICU mamas listening who split time with their baby(ies) in the NICU and older kiddos at home, we ho...2024-03-2048 minNICU Alumni PodcastDear NICU Mama - Ashley and MarthaWe had the best conversation with Ashley and Martha of Dear NICU Mama! Vilma shares how she became connected to DNM and then later went on to become a founding board member of NICU Alumni.Quick Takeaways from the Episode:Dear NICU Mama is rooted in the desire to connect with others who are also going through the NICU journey so that they know they are not alone and are part of the shared sisterhood.Listen to Ashley’s NICU StoryListen to Martha’s NICU Story Part 1 and Part 2Listen to Vilma’s NICU StoryListen to Andrea...2024-03-1941 min
Dear NICU MamaCarolissa | Elizabeth's NICU Journey Part 1On this week's podcast episode, we have part one of team member Carolissa’s journey with her daughter Elizabeth! Elizabeth was born at 31 weeks and had a 56 day NICU stay. Throughout this episode, Carolissa shares vulnerably about the rollercoaster of a ride her motherhood journey has been, including experiencing secondary infertility and the emotions that arise when things don’t go the way we hoped they would.Our hope is that as you listen to this episode, you are reminded how powerful your mother’s intuition is and that you and your steadfast love are more than e...2024-03-1352 min
Ask a NICU Mama PodcastNavigating Post-NICU Life as a Single ParentWelcome to the sixth episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast
where we will be discussing all things NICU related. During this episode, “Navigating Post-NICU Life as a Single Parent,” I talk about my journey as a single parent to a child who has complex medical needs. I know firsthand how difficult this journey can be, so I just wanted to share a few tips that has made life a little bit easier for me.
If you would like to share your story with me or have any additional tips, please feel free to email me at itsa...2024-03-0515 min
Dear NICU MamaAisha | Eva's NICU JourneyOn this week's podcast episode, we have the honor of hearing DNM team member and podcast co-host Aisha’s NICU journey with her daughter Eva. Eva was born prematurely at 26 weeks at the beginning of the pandemic in 2020 and had an 82 day NICU stay. Eva is Aisha’s second preemie baby after losing her first, Enzo, earlier in 2018. Throughout the episode Aisha shares what it was like to have a pregnancy after loss, the miracle of watching your baby defy all odds, and the duality of emotions you feel through it all.To the loss mamas in o...2024-02-2852 minNICU Alumni PodcastFamily Centered Care, Mental Health Advocacy, NICU Parent Network - Keira SorrellsAfter giving birth to triplets at just 25 weeks 5 days gestation and losing one of her daughters at 14 months old, Keira Sorrells was propelled into maternal-infant health out of a deep-seated desire to ensure no parent experiences the trauma of preterm birth or loss alone.Together, with a dedicated team of NICU Parent Leaders, Keira has grown the @NICUParentNetwork to be a sought-after resource and collaborative partner for providers, researchers, industry, and other stakeholders in this niche of healthcare.Content Warning: Loss of a child.Quick Takeaways from the Episode:No matter how...2024-02-1335 min
Ask a NICU Mama PodcastGetting Through Your NICU Stay
Welcome to the second episode of the Ask a NICU Mama Podcast where we will be discussing all things NICU related. During this episode, “Getting Through Your NICU Stay,” I will be sharing several tips that made my NICU stay easier. I will also share one tip I wish I would have implemented while my son was in the NICU. I hope that these tips make your NICU stay a little be easier to manage. Also, tears were shed during the making of this episode and I have a head cold, so please ignore my sniffles and voic...2024-02-0616 min
Dear NICU MamaBreastfeeding & Pumping In and Out of the NICU with Bethany Hill, RN, IBCLCAs NICU mothers, our breastfeeding journeys often times look different than the ones we may have envisioned. It’s not uncommon to first be hooked up to a breast pump, and it can be days, weeks, or months before we have the chance to try feeding our babies at the breast. As we continue talking about feeding, we wanted to publish an episode for NICU mothers that long to pump or breastfeed, and we are so excited to have Bethany Hill, RN, IBCLC of Fargo Milk Market on the podcast today to share all about pumping and breastfeeding in an...2023-11-1542 minNICU Alumni PodcastOne Year of the NICU Alumni Podcast 🎉Tune in for a Special Episode: "Reflecting on One Year of the NICU Alumni Podcast" with our Board of Directors! 🎉Join us as we look back on a year of inspiring stories, valuable insights, and heartfelt connections. Hear from the dedicated individuals behind the scenes who have made this podcast possible.Quick Takeaways from the Episode:FL Partners in PolicymakingThe Zaky HUG collaborationNICU Alumni Parent GroupsNICU Parent NetworkGIVE MIAMI DAYNICU Alumni Grad Guide - Board of Directors EditionF...2023-11-1435 minNICU Alumni PodcastNICU Parent, Artist, and Momma Mental Health Advocate - Savannah Jane O’MalleySavannah Jane O’Malley is a wife and working mother of 3 former preemies. She works full-time, pursues her artistic passions part-time, and moms all the time. We talk about her twin boys who were born 3.5 months early, how they spent their first 3 months fighting for the chance at life despite being given many devastating diagnoses, enduring countless ups and downs, and achieving absolutely incredible triumphs.This season of her life made her discover her true role as a mother and set her on a brand-new trajectory. Through social media, writing, public speaking and painting, she is a vo...2023-10-2748 min
Dear NICU MamaJess | Jamie + Morgan’s NICU JourneyOn this week’s podcast episode, we have the honor of hearing DNM team member Jess’ NICU journey with her twin boys, Jamie + Morgan! Jess was admitted to the hospital at 30 weeks and 2 days due to preterm premature rupture of the membrane (PPROM). After 2 days in the hospital, Jess went into a very quick labor and delivered her boys via an emergency c- section. Jamie was discharged after 41 days, and Morgan was discharged after 60 days. Throughout the episode Jess shares openly her high-risk pregnancy and her boy’s early delivery, what it was like to journey through the NICU during...2023-10-041h 07
Dear NICU MamaFevers & Sickness after NICU with Dr. Jess DaigleThis week’s podcast episode is all about fevers and illness after NICU! (Cue the tears.) As we enter into what is formally known as cold and flu season, we wanted to have a conversation with a pediatrician who can help us understand some truths and misconceptions about illness. We are so excited to have this conversation with Dr. Jess Daigle of Mom & Me MD! Not only is Dr. Jess a board certified pediatrician, but she is also a NICU mom herself and comes to this conversation with empathy for NICU families that find themselves dreading this time of ye...2023-09-2751 minNICU Alumni PodcastToday is a Good Day Founder and NICU Parent - Martha SharkeyMartha Sharkey is the Founder & CEO of Today is a Good Day, a non-profit providing personal and financial support for families who experience the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).Martha and her husband, Paul, founded Today is a Good Day in honor of their daughter, Claire, and in memory of their daughter, Mary. They welcomed their identical twin girls at just 23 weeks and 5 days on November 14, 2010. Quick Call Outs from the Episode:Mange expectations in the NICU - remain hopeful, but remember that hope can evolve and changeThe NICU experience never leaves us even y...2023-09-2634 minNICU Alumni PodcastOver 4,000 Ounces of NICU Milk Donation - Alexandra SportiniThis week we are interviewing Alexandra Sportini, a NICU Mom to an IUGR (Intrauterine Growth Restriction) miracle baby who will soon be 15 months old.We talk about Alexandra's journey with breast milk which actually started before her son was born while she was in antepartum. From there, we discuss her son's NICU experience, and how, following his birth, she became an exclusive pumper. She was eventually able to nurse her son, and later also became a donor for Prolacta Bioscience, a company dedicated to transforming care for vulnerable babies by unlocking the power of human milk.2023-09-1238 minNICU Alumni PodcastCollecting The Zaky HUGs®: Embracing our NICU Alumni TraditionIn this heartwarming episode, we interview our founder's daughter and dive into the beautiful tradition NICU Alumni started of collecting The Zaky HUGs® to distribute within our community.What is The Zaky HUG®? 🤗 It is a soft, weighted hand-shaped pillow that simulates the touch and warmth of a parent's hand. It's designed to provide comfort, security, and a sense of closeness for premature and sick babies during their NICU journey and beyond. 🩵 Embracing the NICU Alumni Tradition 🩵 Here's how you can get involved and make a difference:1️⃣ Listen to this episode and share it with yo...2023-07-1807 min
Dear NICU MamaSarah | Foster + Adoptive NICU MotherhoodAs we near the end of season 6, which has been all about growing and building our families after the NICU, we wanted to make sure to dedicate an episode to the foster and adoptive NICU mamas in our community. Which is why we are so grateful to have NICU mom and NICU nurse, Sarah joining us on the podcast today!Throughout this episode, Sarah shares openly and honestly about her family’s journey to becoming foster parents, what it was like to become a NICU mom while being a NICU nurse, the life and death of he...2023-05-1749 min
Dear NICU MamaHappy Mother's Day, NICU MamaIn honor of Mother’s Day, this week’s podcast episode is a special episode where DNM team members read out-loud letters that they have written for this community. This Mother’s Day, our hope is that you offer yourself the grace and permission to feel the duality of both grief and joy of longing and gratitude. Whether you are celebrating in or out of the NICU, with full or empty arms, or with a close few or a large group, we hope you know how remarkable of a mother that you are.Happy Mother’s Day, NIC...2023-05-1009 min
Dear NICU MamaLeah | Healing from a Hysterectomy after NICUAs we continue season 6 which is all about growing our families after the NICU, we want to make sure to also honor the NICU mamas in our sisterhood who are no longer able to carry children due to an emergent or elected hysterectomy. And we are so grateful for twin NICU mama Leah for sharing about her personal experience. After an emergency c-section, Leah’s twins were born at 32 weeks 2 days gestation, and were then transported to a level 3 NICU 30 miles away. Nearly 18 hours after birth they discovered that there was fluid in her abdomen, and an exploratory surgery th...2023-04-2654 minNICU Alumni PodcastNICU Child Life Specialist - Lindsay DavisLindsay Davis is a Child Life Specialist with over 15 years of experience in the industry. During her time working at a NICU in NYC she created and implemented a child life program in the NICU and co-facilitated the NICU Family Advisory Council. She has a Master’s Degree in Child Life from Bank Street College of Education in NYC and we're so thrilled to get to speak with her!Quick Call Outs from the Episode:Generally, Child Life is focused on supporting children undergoing procedures or receiving a treatment. Specialists run playrooms and activities in the ho...2023-04-1941 min
Dear NICU MamaNavigating & Posting Pregnancy Announcements on Social Media after NICU RoundtableThis week’s podcast episode is a roundtable episode with two of our editorial team members, Keely and Savannah! And this week we are talking all about navigating and announcing pregnancy announcements on social media after the NICU.Depending on where you are in your healing journey, social media can sometimes be a joyful and wonderful place to engage, and other times it can invoke feelings of jealousy or longing for the experiences of motherhood that you may have always envisioned. Throughout this episode, they each share not only how they use and process social media in...2023-04-051h 01
Dear NICU MamaREPLAY | High-Risk Pregnancy after NICU with Dr. Stefanie Gefroh EllisonThis week’s podcast episode is a replay episode from season 2 of the Dear NICU Mama podcast! As we further our conversation of growing our families after the NICU, we wanted to make sure to re-share this episode as it contains not only invaluable information about high-risk pregnancy after NICU, but also because Dr. Stefanie is a NICU mama herself. For those who find themselves pregnant after the NICU or are considering this journey for their family, we hope you feel seen and heard by this episode.—-For NICU mothers considering having more...2023-03-2953 minNICU Alumni PodcastPhysical Therapy in the NICU - Consuelo KloostermanConsuelo Kloosterman is an experienced pediatric physical therapist. She has over 25 years of clinical expertise in the NICU, and currently works in two level III NICUs in Palm Beach County, Florida.Quick Call Outs from the Episode:Physical Therapy in the NICU covers so much about how to care for and connect with your baby. You can learn things like - How to touch your babyHow to hold your babyHow to change their diaperHow to massage your babyAppropriate positions for feedingHow to identify when your baby is alert and ready for interactionAll of which will help p...2023-03-2930 minNICU Alumni PodcastNeonatologist, NICU Alumni Board Member - Dr. Grisel GalarzaDrawn to Neonatology as a young girl, Dr. Marta Grisel Galarza has been a lifelong NICU baby champion. She is the Medical Director of the Intermediate Care NICU at a leading hospital in Miami, FL. In recent years, she has also developed a Neonatal/ Antenatal specific palliative care program for the Division of Neonatology.Grisel is a founding board member of NICU Alumni and we are so thrilled to have her join us on the podcast!Quick Call Outs from the Episode:It’s important to take charge and participate in your child’s care...2023-03-1549 min
Dear NICU MamaSupporting Older Siblings While in the NICU with Child Life On CallThis week, we have the privilege of speaking with Katie Taylor from Child Life On Call! One of the most commonly asked questions in our support forum is how to not only balance being a mom to kids at home and in the NICU, but also how to include their older kids with their new sibling’s NICU journey in a way that feels safe and easy to comprehend. And we couldn’t think of a better guests to talk about this today than Katie!In this episode we cover:What are some ways we can...2023-03-0848 min
Dear NICU MamaPaige | Sully's Delivery, NICU, & G-Tube JourneyOn this week’s podcast episode, we have the honor of hearing the miraculous NICU journey of Sully! Sully was born at 31 weeks during the height of the pandemic due to Paige developing severe preeclmapsia. While in the NICU, he developed NEC, which led to three surgeries, a G-tube, and a 131 day NICU stay. Sully is now two years old, G-tube free, and the happiest toddler in the world!To the G-tube and medical mamas in our sisterhood, we hope you feel heard and celebrated throughout this episode. This sisterhood honors not only your child’s resi...2023-03-011h 09
Dear NICU MamaPregnancy & Advocacy after NICU RoundtableThis week, we are excited to release another roundtable episode! As we continue our theme of growing our families after NICU, we invited Ebony and Carrita back on the podcast as they are both expecting after loss and NICU stays.Ebony and Carrita share their personal family building journeys, how they have savored each moment of their pregnancies, and words of encouragement they would offer other NICU mamas who find themselves pregnant after the NICU! They also share vulnerably about how they have advocated for perinatal and postpartum care as Black mothers and women.2023-02-231h 14
Dear NICU MamaREPLAY | Sex & Intimacy After NICU and or Birth Trauma with Jill EhrmantrautThis week’s podcast episode is a replay from a former season of the Dear NICU Mama podcast! As we continue our conversation of growing our families after the NICU, we couldn’t think of a more valuable series of episodes to share than our Sex & Intimacy after NICU and/or Birth Trauma series. We know that connecting with our bodies after the NICU is a lifelong healing journey, especially when it comes to connecting to our partners physically, but we hope that this episodes offers your heart some practical and tangible steps to finding peace in your body post...2023-02-1537 min
Dear NICU MamaREPLAY | Sex & Intimacy After NICU and or Birth Trauma with Natalie ReiterThis week’s podcast episode is a replay from a former season of the Dear NICU Mama podcast! As we continue our conversation of growing our families after the NICU and approach the Valentine’s Day holiday, we couldn’t think of a more valuable series of episodes to share than our Sex & Intimacy after NICU and/or Birth Trauma series. We know this conversation can be a tender one, but we hope that these episodes leave you feeling encouraged and empowered as you reconnect with your partner post trauma.----Yep, you read t...2023-02-0853 minNICU Alumni PodcastCEO of Hand to Hold, NICU Parent - Kelli KelleyThis week we chat with Kelli Kelley, a 2x NICU parent who is also the founder and CEO of Hand to Hold, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to providing emotional support, education, and community to parents who have had children in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) or the loss of a baby.Quick Call Outs from the Episode:Our challenges don’t end at the NICUKelli shares how at first, she was reluctant to even step foot in the NICU after her son was born, but she was encouraged because she knew that he would kn...2023-02-0845 min
Dear NICU MamaHigh-Risk Pregnancy after NICU with Parijat DeshpandeWe have the honor and privilege of welcoming back Parijat Deshpande back to the Dear NICU mama Podcast! And today we have a gentle and trauma informed discussion about high-risk pregnancy after NICU.In this episode we cover:How do we know if we are ready for another pregnancy? What questions can help couples answer this for themselves?What does it mean to have a high-risk pregnancy?Will stress and anxiety during pregnancy cause a mother to go into early labor?Is it possible to have a more “normal” pregnancy?How do we listen to our...2023-02-0147 minNICU Alumni PodcastMental Health Therapist, NICU Parent - Cynthia ShogreenOur goal for this podcast has been to talk with parents and families who have “been there” so they can share about their NICU experience, as well as experts who have some kind of connection to the NICU field… Cynthia’s experience and career path actually check both boxes so this episode is kind of a hybrid. We talk about her personal experiences and how she navigated the NICU and post-NICU journey within her family, and also about her point of view as a Mental Health Therapist in the field.Quick Call Outs from the Episode:There is...2022-12-2135 minNICU Alumni Podcast2x NICU Parent, Entrepreneur, Social Impact Extraordinaire - Felecia HatcherFelecia Hatcher currently serves as CEO at Black Ambition; a bold organization founded by Pharrell Williams that catapults and invests in ideas and companies led by Black and Latinx entrepreneurs, scaling business ventures in media and entertainment, consumer products and services, healthcare, technology, and Web 3.Tomorrow, Nov 17th is World Prematurity Day. It is also the day that kicks off Giving Season in Miami, known as Give Miami Day, so it’s going to be a big day!We thought it would be really special to talk to Felecia during this time as she is so...2022-11-1633 minNICU Alumni PodcastICU baby CEO and Co-founder + NICU Parent - Beth SimontonBeth Simonton is the proud mother of 3 children, the youngest of which is her NICU baby. She is also the co-founder and CEO of ICU baby and believes that every parent should have the opportunity to be at their baby’s hospital bedside and she is passionate about removing barriers for NICU parents to be able to accomplish that.Quick Notes from the Episode:When a child comes home from the hospital after a NICU stay, you may expect it to be all done, but you’re really just beginning the next chapter.Sometimes you’re ready...2022-11-0929 min