Fourth Trimester: The First Months and Beyond | Parenting | Newborn Baby | Postpartum | Doula
Sarah Roselinda Trott
My name is Sarah Trott. I'm a new mama to a vivacious baby girl and this podcast is all about postpartum care for the few months following birth, the time period also known as the Fourth Trimester. My postpartum doula, Esther Gallagher, is my co-host. She’s a mother, grandmother, perinatal educator, birth and postpartum care provider. I've benefitted hugely from her support. All parents can benefit from the wisdom and support that a postpartum Doula provides. Fourth trimester care is about the practical, emotional and social support parents and baby require, and importantly, helps set the tone for the lifelong journey of parenting. This podcast provides resources for new parents and examines the socio-cultural influences on parenting.
When I first became pregnant, I had never heard of postpartum Doulas, let alone knew what they did. So much of the training and preparation that expecting parents do is focused on the birth and newborn care. Once baby is born, often the first interaction parents have with medical or child professionals, other than the first pediatrician visits, is the six-week checkup with the OB/GYN. What about caring for mama and family between the birth and the six week doctor visit? What are the strategies for taking care of the partner and the rest of the family while looking after your newborn?
Our podcasts contain expert interviews with specialists from many fields to cover topics including postpartum doula practices, prenatal care, prenatal and postnatal yoga, parenting, breastfeeding, physical recovery from birth, nutrition, newborn care, midwifery, negotiating family visitation, and many more.
First-hand experience is shared through lots of stories from both new and seasoned parents. Hear what other parents are asking and what they have done in their own lives.
We reference other podcasts, internet resources and real-life experts who can help you on your own parenting journey. Visit our site at https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/
We hope you have a well-resourced and enjoyable experience as new parents.
Sarah Trott & Esther Gallagher xo
When I first became pregnant, I had never heard of postpartum Doulas, let alone knew what they did. So much of the training and preparation that expecting parents do is focused on the birth and newborn care. Once baby is born, often the first interaction parents have with medical or child professionals, other than the first pediatrician visits, is the six-week checkup with the OB/GYN. What about caring for mama and family between the birth and the six week doctor visit? What are the strategies for taking care of the partner and the rest of the family while looking after your newborn?
Our podcasts contain expert interviews with specialists from many fields to cover topics including postpartum doula practices, prenatal care, prenatal and postnatal yoga, parenting, breastfeeding, physical recovery from birth, nutrition, newborn care, midwifery, negotiating family visitation, and many more.
First-hand experience is shared through lots of stories from both new and seasoned parents. Hear what other parents are asking and what they have done in their own lives.
We reference other podcasts, internet resources and real-life experts who can help you on your own parenting journey. Visit our site at https://fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/
We hope you have a well-resourced and enjoyable experience as new parents.
Sarah Trott & Esther Gallagher xo
Episodes
Mentioned books
Mar 8, 2025 • 49min
How to Rewrite Your Birth Story and Find Joy After Trauma with Chanti Smith
Birth is one of the most transformative experiences in a person’s life, but when things don’t go as planned - something traumatic or simply not what you thought would happen - the emotional impact can linger. Chanti Smith is a licensed professional midwife and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner. In this episode she talks about healing from birth trauma and reclaiming joy. Listen to learn how somatic experiencing helps release stored trauma, reconnect with the body, and create a new sense of empowerment. This conversation is an important reminder that healing is possible, and you don’t have to navigate it alone.Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comConnect with Chanti Smith embodiedbeginnings.com | Book A Session | WorkshopsLearn more Somatic Experiencing Can Build Attachment Between Parent And Child | Reproductive Psychiatry: Optimizing Your Mental Health with Dr Ida Eden | Preparing to Enjoy the Fourth TrimesterResources Mindfulness Childbirth and Parenting Courses | Somatic Experiencing | Snack Trays | castellinotraining.comOur favorite Fourth Trimester Books The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaConnect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | InstagramAdditional ResourcesHelloGaia Parenting CopilotFREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth PlanFREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester PlanFREE DOWNLOAD Birth Team Overview – Who’s Who At The HospitalSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Feb 22, 2025 • 38min
Get the Most From Your Night Doula and Get More Sleep With Kristin Revere of Gold Coast Doulas
I don't know about you, but one of my top goals as a parent of a newborn was getting more sleep. A night doula is a great addition to any postpartum dream team because they will help with achieving exactly that - more sleep. More sleep for you, your other family members in your household, your baby.It's perfectly normal for newborns to be awake multiple times during the night (just ask PhD Sleep Consultant Dr Millette). And, it's also true that sleep deprivation is associated with an increased risk of postpartum anxiety and depression. Plus, sleep is simply wonderful.In this episode, we talk with Kristin Revere, a doula and the founder of Gold Coast Doulas. She's also the author of Supported: Your Guide to Birth and Baby. We talk about how to get the most out of your night doula experience, including:Hiring the right person, what to check and askCosts and affordabilityBenefitsA typical night with a night doulaWhat to expect: practical, mental, social, emotional support examplesWishing you happy family sleep!Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comKristin's Book Supported: Your Guide to Birth and BabyConnect with Kristin Revere goldcoastdoulas.com | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeLearn more Doula Interview Questions | How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You if You Don’t Have a Doula (What is a Doula?) | A Parent’s Guide To Building Self-Trust (And Why It Matters) | Baby Sleep Solutions - The Top 10 Sleep Training Questions Every Parent Asks with Dr Angelique MilletteConnect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram Additional ResourcesHelloGaia Parenting CopilotFREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth PlanFREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester PlanFREE DOWNLOAD Birth Team Overview – Who’s Who At The HospitalSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Feb 8, 2025 • 54min
How to Maximize Maternity Leave & Paternity Benefits with MAMAttorney Daphne Delvaux
Wondering how to make the most of your parental leave? In this episode, we talk with Mamattorney lawyer Daphne Delvaux about your rights, how to maximize your maternity, paternity, and parental leave benefits, and what every new parent should know. Daphne spells out how you can stitch together different types of leaves and benefits to make sure you are getting the full amount of leave available so you can spend the most time possible with your babyFull show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.com Connect with Daphne Delvaux themamattorney.com | Instagram | FacebookResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Birth Team Overview – Who’s Who At The HospitalLearn More Family Financial Wellness: Three Finance Must-dos for Families | A Parent’s Guide To Building Self-Trust (And Why It Matters) | Prepare For Taking Maternity Leave Like A Pro - Maternity Leave GuideOur favorite Fourth Trimester Books The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaConnect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | InstagramSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Jan 25, 2025 • 1h 1min
Baby Carrier Guide: Benefits, Safety & Tips with Whitney Dula, IBCLC, Trained Babywearing Expert
Discover the benefits of babywearing in this episode with Whitney Dula, IBCLC, postpartum doula, and trained babywearing expert. Whitney shares tips on choosing and using baby carriers, safety essentials, and how babywearing supports bonding and development. Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.comConnect with Whitney Dula themamasdula.com | Instagram | TikTok | FacebookLearn more Babywearing How To Videos | HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE Babywearing Guide | Where to Check if Your Hand-Me-Down Carrier Has Been Recalled: https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls | Amy Rainbow AdjoynOur favorite Fourth Trimester Beach Reads The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Postpartum Soups and Stews CollectionConnect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | InstagramSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Jan 11, 2025 • 57min
Proper Sitz Bath Guide: Natural Healing & How to Be the Best Friend to a New Mom with Esther Gallagher
Learn the benefits of a sitz bath DONE PROPERLY for postpartum healing, with step-by-step guidance on how to prepare one using natural, soothing ingredients.This DIY Sitz Bath Guide will teach you how to care for yourself or provide this care for others.Plus, this episode will equip you with additional tools to make a real difference in a new parent’s recovery journey.>> This is one to share with any friend or family member who is planning to provide you with a helping hand while your are at home with a new baby! <<Full Show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comSitz Bath Recipe & Ingredients Connect with Esther Gallagher esthergallagher.comLearn more HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | Postpartum Sitz Bath Herbal Ingredients List | The Dos & Don'ts Of Being A Respectful & HELPFUL Visitor To A New Parent | Postpartum Depression Warning Signs | Breastfeeding Essentials: No Judgement Guide - Say Goodbye To Breastfeeding PainRecipes Snack Trays | Postpartum Soups and Stews CollectionRecommended Mindfulness Childbirth and Parenting Courses | Somatic ExperiencingConnect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram | About & ContactFREE Parenting Copilot HelloGaiaFREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth PlanFREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester PlanFREE DOWNLOAD Birth Team Overview – Who’s Who At The HospitalSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Dec 28, 2024 • 1h 1min
Sacred Postpartum Traditions: How to Heal, Thrive, and Honor Your Fourth Trimester with Pānquetzani
Discover the wisdom of sacred postpartum traditions with Pānquetzani, a traditional healer and advocate for holistic maternal care. In this episode, we explore time-honored practices that support healing, thriving, and deep connection during the fourth trimester. Learn how to honor your postpartum journey with simple, yet powerful practices that support lasting wellness. Whether you're an expecting parent, new parent, or support person, this conversation offers invaluable tools to nurture mind, body, and spirit.Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comConnect with Pānquetzani indigemama.com | Facebook | InstagramPānquetzani's book Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaCaldo (bone broth) recipe fourthtrimesterpodcast.com/recipesLearn more A Parent’s Guide To Building Self-Trust (And Why It Matters) With First Forty Days Author Marisa Belger | How a Friend or Family Member Can Help You if You Don’t Have a Doula (What is a Doula?) More of our favorite Fourth Trimester Beach Reads The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood Connect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram FREE HelloGaia Parenting CopilotFREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth PlanFREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester PlanFREE DOWNLOAD Birth Team Overview – Who’s Who At The HospitalSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Dec 21, 2024 • 40min
Data-Driven Parenting With Dr Amanda P Williams
This episode featuring Dr Amanda P Williams is dedicated to how data can be a tool for informed decision-making, creating positive outcomes for both parents and their children.With 35% of U.S. counties classified as Maternity Care Deserts—lacking essential maternal care resources—data and technology are critical in bridging gaps in access and information. Tools like virtual visits, online data platforms such as Peristats, and virtual parenting assistants like HelloGaia empower parents and caregivers with the resources they need. This approach combines in-person care, virtual care, and technology-based support to create a "best of the best" layered experience.Data-driven parenting using evidence-backed information in combination with the very important practice of self-trust and gut-instinct is increasingly the way forward for many parents and caregivers.Learn how to find and use evidence-based information that empowers parents.Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.comConnect with Dr Amanda P Williams LinkedIn | Instagram | Twitter | Stanford MedicineMarch of Dimes marchofdimes.org | Peristats | State Report Cards | Maternity Care Deserts ReportLearn more Irth App Hospital Reviews | HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | California Maternal Quality Care Collaborative (CMQCC) | US News Top Obstetrics Hospitals Rankings | American Academy of Pediatrics | American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists | Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine | The State of Postpartum Maternal Health with Dr Amanda P WilliamsOur favorite Fourth Trimester Books The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Postpartum Soups and Stews CollectionSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Dec 14, 2024 • 32min
Future-Ready: Boost Your Kid's Success With These Positive Mindset Practices
In this episode, Jesse Bennett, an author and advocate for positive thinking among children, guides us on helping kids boost their success by developing a positive mindset through kindness, self-talk, and mindfulness practices. She emphasizes that kindness begins within oneself. By teaching children to love and believe in themselves and encouraging them to recognize their inner light, they can extend this kindness to others.Full show notes: fourthtrimesterpodcast.comJesse's books Ripple | Bloom | Sunshine | Lift | The Yoga HouseOther books mentioned Indestructible books | Where the Sidewalk Ends by Shel Silverstein | Little Pookie Sandra Boynton Collection | The Lorax | Junie B Jones | Dragons Love Tacos | I Think I Am by Louise HayConnect with Jesse Bennett jessebennett.co | InstagramLearn more Wire Your Baby for Success Through Optimal Newborn Brain Development | Preparing For Your Second Baby - The Second Child Transition | Encourage Infant Speech Learning, Security & Confidence Through Communication and Play | Mom Group Guide: How To Find, Join Or Facilitate Your Own Mom GroupResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Postpartum Soups and Stews CollectionSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
Nov 30, 2024 • 47min
Meet Your Parenting Copilot: HelloGaia Makes Raising Kids Easier
In this episode, hosted by Didi D'Errico as a special edition, we focus on ACTIONABLE ways you can build more reliable, more accessible and more timely support as a new parent. We know there are enough barriers to support for new parents as it is, as highlighted by March of Dimes in their recent report on Maternity Care Deserts - THANK YOU for providing insights and data!We talk you through specific steps you can take to have a better-resourced fourth trimester and beyond. We highlight FREE planning templates and tools that every new and expecting parent needs to know about, including a service we are very excited about called HelloGaia. HelloGaia is a FREE AI-driven search-based chat tool that is designed to help families find fast, trustworthy, always-available answers to questions that will arise during pregnancy, postnatally and as their child grows. Get started with HelloGaia here.Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.comLinks to HelloGaia hellogaia.ai | Use Cases & Quotes (Listen to the bonus track at the end of this episode to hear a full review from Esther Gallagher, postpartum doula)Download HelloGaia on the app store Apple | Google PlayResources mentioned FREE Birth Plan Template | FREE Fourth Trimester Plan TemplateLearn more What To Expect From A Doula | March of Dimes Report on Maternal Care Deserts
Nov 16, 2024 • 1h 6min
The Top 10 Toddler Sleep Questions Every Parent Asks with Dr Angelique Millette
In this episode, Sarah Trott talks with pediatric sleep consultant Dr. Angelique Millette to answer the top 10 TODDLER sleep questions every parent has. (Go to the BABY episode if you want help with baby sleep! Link below.)Dr. Millette shares her expertise on the challenges of toddler sleep, providing practical solutions for common issues like bedtime resistance, night wakings, early morning risings, and more. She also covers how to recognize signs of sleep readiness, establish effective bedtime routines, and create an environment that supports restful sleep.Listen to learn strategies tailored to meet a toddler’s specific needs, fostering smoother nights for the whole family.Full show notes fourthtrimesterpodcast.com (FREE Birth plan download here)Connect with Dr Angelique Millette angeliquemillette.com | Facebook | YouTubeResources mentioned Safe Sleep Guide for Room Sharing and Bed Sharing Angelique's other sleep episodes Dr Angelique Millette on Sleep Training | The No-low Cry Sleep Method | Help Your Little One Prepare For Sleeping In Their Own Room | The Top 10 Baby Sleep Questions Every Parent AsksLearn more Wire Your Baby for Success Through Optimal Newborn Brain Development | A Parent’s Guide To Building Self-Trust (And Why It Matters) With First Forty Days Author Marisa Belger Our favorite Fourth Trimester Books The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother | Becoming the Parent You Want to Be: A Sourcebook of Strategies for the First Five Years | Growing Together: Doula Wisdom & Holistic Practices for Pregnancy, Birth & Early Motherhood | Thriving Postpartum: Embracing the Indigenous Wisdom of La CuarentenaResources HelloGaia Parenting Copilot | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Birth Plan | FREE DOWNLOAD Customizable Fourth Trimester Plan | Postpartum Soups and Stews CollectionConnect with Fourth Trimester Facebook | Instagram | About & ContactSome of the links we have on the show notes help support the work that we do - if you decide to purchase through an affiliate link, the show receives a small commission and it really helps us out
