The photo captured us in a moment of pure happiness, but I hadn’t shared it before. Why? Because I was seated. It was a side view. And because internalized weight bias still sneaks up, even for those of us who speak out against it.

That one image led me to reconnect with Debbie, a brilliant auctioneer, comedian, advocate, and all-around extraordinary human. We’ve known each other for over a decade, and reconnecting reminded me just how much I appreciate her authenticity, humor, and heart.

I invited Debbie on the show for an open, real conversation about aging, body image, sobriety, showing up authentically, and how we navigate all of it, especially as we grow older.

From Unexpected Divorce to the Comedy Stage

Debbie’s story is one of transformation through vulnerability. After working in the nonprofit world and staying home with her children, life took an unexpected turn with a sudden divorce. Searching for something to anchor herself, she tried stand-up comedy for the first time in 2013, and instantly fell in love.

While she didn’t love the late-night lifestyle of comedy clubs, she found her sweet spot in using humor for connection. This evolved into emceeing events and eventually becoming a licensed auctioneer, combining her passions for nonprofits, connection, and comedy.

Our Bodies, Our Biases—Even Our Own

That old photo sparked a deeper conversation between us. I’ve worked hard to unpack weight bias, and I fiercely advocate for body acceptance and autonomy. But even still, that side-angle photo made me pause.

Debbie, who exists in a smaller body, shared that she, too, has wrestled with body image, especially in midlife. She’s experienced changes in her body that have led her to reflect more deeply on how she feels in her skin.

“I have moments where I feel great and others where I just don’t like looking at my body,” she shared honestly. “Even though I have a partner who loves all of me, it’s still a very personal relationship—one that’s sometimes the most challenging.”

It’s a powerful reminder that body image struggles are not limited by size, and that as we age, our relationships with our bodies continue to evolve.

Aging, Ozempic, and What Doctors Don’t Ask

As we discussed how our bodies change with age (hello, perimenopause), Debbie shared her frustration with medical providers who quickly offer weight loss drugs without deeper conversations.

“I mentioned gaining weight, and the first response was, ‘Have you heard of Ozempic?’ No one asked how I feel in my body. No one asked about how I move or what my day-to-day looks like,” Debbie shared.

We talked about the broader implications of this—how normalized weight-loss medication has become, and the real harm of skipping over conversations about health, lifestyle, and well-being.

Debbie acknowledged that while these medications can be life-changing for some, the lack of nuance in how they’re offered is concerning.

As someone who champions body autonomy, I’ve felt torn too, supporting people’s choices while grieving how quickly society has shifted back to “smaller is better” narratives. It’s not about the medication itself; it’s about the pressure, the assumptions, and the loss of the progress we were making in fat acceptance and body liberation spaces.

Sobriety, Self-Acceptance & Showing Up

Another powerful part of our conversation was about sobriety. Debbie has been sober since 2018, and she shared openly about what it’s like to be a sober woman in her 50s, navigating social spaces that often revolve around alcohol.

“There’s this myth that the more people drink at fundraising events, the more they give,” she said. “But what actually builds connection is authenticity, not alcohol.”

We also talked about what it’s like to experience intimacy without alcohol, and the vulnerability that comes with truly showing up without a buffer. Her honesty was so refreshing—and a reminder that growth is often uncomfortable, but worth it.

Giving Thoughtful F*cks as We Age

One of my favorite moments was when Debbie said, “I meet people who say, ‘I give zero fcks.’ And I think that’s not it. The real gift of aging is being selective with the f*cks you give.”

That perfectly captures the heart of this episode. We talked about learning to care deeply—but intentionally. About stepping back from the need for constant approval. About honoring our bodies, energy, and boundaries as we grow older.

Safe Spaces, Advocacy & The Importance of Showing Up

We also talked about the very real fears many LGBTQIA+ people are experiencing right now. Debbie and her partner Wendy have had hard conversations about what it means to stay safe in today’s political climate—and how heartbreaking it is to see protections stripped away.

“I think one of the most powerful things we can do is just check in with our people,” Debbie said. “Ask if they’re okay. Ask how you can support them. And when it feels safe, speak up.”

Whether it’s offering sober-friendly spaces at events, creating inclusive healthcare environments, or just standing up for your friends, there’s always something we can do to make the world more compassionate.

Learning, Listening & Living Authentically

As we wrapped up, Debbie shared how much joy she gets from her work as an emcee and auctioneer, especially when she’s raising money for causes she cares about.

“I show up as authentically me,” she said. “And then I come home and sit on my porch in silence to recharge. That balance keeps me going.”

That authenticity, and her ability to navigate vulnerability with humor and heart, is exactly why I wanted to have her on the show, and why I’m so glad to share her voice with you.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 237

Transcript happily provided upon

• Check out Debbie Scheer’s podcast: Aging with Pride
• Learn more about her work: Debbie Scheer Speaks

This episode is brought to you by the Size-Friendly Birth Course—an online training for birth and postpartum professionals ready to provide size-inclusive care for people in larger bodies.

You’ll get:

• 🎥 Over 6 hours of video lessons
• 📘 A 115-page editable PDF workbook with guided activities
• 🕒 6 contact hours for professional development
• 📜 A certificate of completion
• 🌐 Bonus: Access to the Plus Size Birth Circle—our exclusive online platform

The post Aging, Body Image & Real Talk with Comedian Debbie Scheer appeared first on Plus Mommy.

While tending bar, Mary was doing a lot of spoken word around Seattle. She talked about being Christian and queer from behind the mic and her struggles with the two intertwined. 

Hollis Wong-Wear, Mary’s friend in the Seattle poetry community, was a soundboard for Macklemore and Ryan Lewis for an album they were developing. And Hollis called Mary, sharing a writing opportunity for a song about gay marriage and the church for the album. 

Mary felt like this was the moment she was waiting for, to write about her Christian beliefs and queer identity – with a focus on love. And in about one hour, she wrote the chorus for the grammy-nominated song, “Same Love”!  

Yet, at the time, two months passed following her recording of the chorus, and she hadn’t heard from anyone. So, she assumed they had gone with someone else. 

And then she received an e-mail that changed her life forever. It wasn’t just her words selected for the song but her voice!

The year was 2012 before gay marriage had passed, and the song was a massive success but also caused controversy. As Mary left for tour with Macklemore and Ryan Lewis. She ensured her last will and testament were updated because there were protesters and death threats throughout the two years they toured. 

Mary knew she wanted to create meaningful and risky work that challenges the status quo.  And she did just that as a solo artist!

“She Keeps Me Warm” is a beautiful extension of the chorus Mary sang in “Same Love.” It dropped in 2013 and was very well received. 

And then there was the unforgettable Grammy performance of “Same Love” with Macklemore, Ryan Lewis, Madonna, and Queen Latifah!

Now known as a queer singer, Mary wanted to produce music that spoke to her fat activism and who she loves. So, in 2014, she dropped “Body Love,” a spoken-word piece Mary wrote years earlier when she was 19. It’s a vulnerable and profound statement about loving oneself. 

And then Secrets dropped, written, and produced to be the commercially successful pop song it became. It was also Mary sharing with the world that she has bipolar disorder. 

The song went Gold in 2015 and was on the pop charts, receiving a lot of positive feedback. 

And later that year, she stepped away from her record label after being pushed to the extremes. Mary chose her mental health and regained complete creative control of her work.  

Mary has gone on to produce music, publish poetry, co-host the podcast The Manic Episodes with her fiancé, and voice acting with her feature in Netflix’s I Love Arlo.

She’s currently orchestrating film scores, writing a book on body image, and is offering her Every Body Is a Baby course. 

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 170 & 234

Transcript happily provided upon request. 

Resources Mentioned On The Show:

• Learn about Mary’s upcoming shows via her website, subscribe to The Manic Episodes podcast, and learn more about the Every Body Is a Babe workshop.
• Connect with Mary on Instagram and all other social handles @marylambertsing

This episode is brought to you by the Size-Friendly Birth Course—an online training for birth and postpartum professionals ready to provide size-inclusive care for people in larger bodies.

You’ll get:

• 🎥 Over 6 hours of video lessons
• 📘 A 115-page editable PDF workbook with guided activities
• 🕒 6 contact hours for professional development
• 📜 A certificate of completion
• 🌐 Bonus: Access to the Plus Size Birth Circle—our exclusive online platform and mobile app for on-the-go learning and community support

Use code PLUSMOMMY for 20% off at plussizebirth.com!

The post From Same Love To Body Liberation With Mary Lambert appeared first on Plus Mommy.

In this deeply personal and educational episode of the Plus Mommy Podcast, host Jen McLellan is joined by psychologist Dr. Linda Baggett to discuss how to protect and prioritize your mental wellness throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Together, they explore therapy, trauma, boundaries, body image, and the importance of community care for people navigating pregnancy in a larger body.

Therapy Is a Form of Prenatal Care

Mental health support isn’t just for moments of crisis; it’s something to consider even before the baby arrives.

Dr. Baggett encourages all expecting parents, especially those with a history of trauma or anxiety, to view therapy as an essential part of prenatal preparation. She shares how even just a few sessions during pregnancy can help people process previous experiences, navigate fears around childbirth, and build confidence.

Seeking out a therapist who is trauma-informed and aligned with Health at Every Size® principles is key when you’re fat and pregnant (or plus-size if you prefer that term).

For those who’ve had negative experiences in healthcare settings, it can be powerful to work with someone who understands how to support you without judgment.

Boundaries Are an Act of Self-Care

From unsolicited advice to weight-focused comments, setting boundaries during pregnancy is crucial.

Dr. Baggett shares that boundaries aren’t about being harsh; they’re about protecting your energy and well-being. This might look like preparing simple, clear responses such as “I’m not open to discussing my weight” or “That topic doesn’t support my well-being right now.”

By practicing these boundary-setting phrases early in pregnancy, you’ll feel more prepared to use them with providers, family, or even strangers.

As Dr. Baggett explains, boundaries are one of the most important mental health tools we have, especially for those who are already navigating systems that can be invalidating or harmful.

Fatphobia in Fertility and Prenatal Care

Dr. Baggett vulnerably shares her own fertility journey at age 40, revealing the fatphobia and medical trauma she experienced—even during procedures performed under anesthesia.

She speaks candidly about being made to feel “othered” in medical spaces, and how she had to fiercely advocate for herself to receive equitable care.

For many plus-size people, these experiences aren’t uncommon.

That’s why Dr. Baggett stresses the importance of finding size-friendly providers who treat you with respect and dignity. Knowing your rights, asking about provider experience with larger bodies, and even bringing a support person to appointments can all help create a safer, more empowering experience.

Body Image Grief Is Real when You’re Fat and Pregnant

There’s a particular kind of grief that can come with not having a baby bump shape that mirrors social media’s narrow beauty standards.

Dr. Baggett acknowledges and normalizes this grief, particularly for those in larger bodies who may feel invisible or judged during pregnancy. It’s okay to feel this way, and it’s important to remember that your experience is valid and worthy of support.

She recommends curating your social media feed to include diverse body sizes, real pregnancy stories, and uplifting content.

Plan Ahead for Postpartum Wellness

Postpartum is often framed as a physical recovery, but the emotional landscape deserves just as much planning.

Dr. Baggett encourages people to create a postpartum mental health plan during pregnancy, just like they might plan for birth.

Key questions to ask yourself:

• Who can I talk to if I feel overwhelmed?
• What are my signs of anxiety or depression?
• What support systems (friends, therapists, community groups) can I lean on?

Having this plan in place makes it easier to take action in the moment, especially when sleep deprivation and hormonal shifts make it harder to think clearly.

Know the Red Flags

While the “baby blues” affect many parents in the first two weeks postpartum, longer-lasting or more intense symptoms may signal a perinatal mood or anxiety disorder (PMAD). Dr. Baggett outlines some key red flags to watch for:

• Persistent sadness or hopelessness
• Panic attacks or high anxiety
• Difficulty bonding with baby
• Intrusive thoughts (especially those that feel scary or unwanted)
• Disturbed sleep unrelated to the baby’s schedule

If any of these signs show up, you are not failing—you are human. Help is available, and recovery is possible with the right support.

Dr. Baggett emphasizes that while most people will never experience postpartum psychosis, it’s important to understand the signs and talk with your provider about any history of bipolar disorder or previous episodes of psychosis.

Resources like Postpartum Support International can offer urgent help and guide you to appropriate care.

Learn so much more during this powerful episode of the Plus Mommy Podcast available below and on your favorite podcast app.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 232

Transcript happily provided upon request.

If you’re navigating pregnancy or postpartum in a larger body, you’re not alone, and you deserve care that honors all of you. Here are some helpful resources mentioned in this episode:

• Well Woman Psychology & Instagram
• ASDAH: Health at Every Size®
• Reagan Chastain – Advocacy Against Medical Fatphobia

Dr. Linda Baggett is a licensed psychologist and owner of Well Woman Psychology, a therapy practice specializing in women’s issues, including a focus on reproductive health issues like pregnancy, fertility challenges, perinatal/postpartum mental health, birth trauma, and pregnancy loss. She also helps women with relationships, trauma and PTSD, sexuality, and all things related to bodies – body image, navigating a fatphobic world, and building a good relationship with bodies, food, and movement. Dr. Baggett is an intersectional feminist, a certified Body Trust provider, and practices from a fat-positive, Health at Every Size lens. She’s also a fat new mom in her 40’s!

This episode is brought to you by the Size-Friendly Birth Course—an online training for birth and postpartum professionals ready to provide size-inclusive care for people in larger bodies.

You’ll get:

• 🎥 Over 6 hours of video lessons
• 📘 A 115-page editable PDF workbook with guided activities
• 🕒 6 contact hours for professional development
• 📜 A certificate of completion
• 🌐 Bonus: Access to the Plus Size Birth Circle—our exclusive online platform and mobile app for on-the-go learning and community support

Use code PLUSMOMMY for 20% off at plussizebirth.com!

The post Fat and Pregnant: How to Support Your Mental Health Now appeared first on Plus Mommy.

I’m joined by Cheryl Furer, a seasoned home birth midwife for episode 231 of the Plus Mommy Podcast. From outdated weight gain restrictions to the impersonal nature of many medical settings, we speak candidly about the urgent need for whole-person, evidence-based care. Their conversation is a call to action for parents and providers alike: it’s time to put trust, autonomy, and compassion at the heart of every birth story.

“Of course, it’s normal to gain weight during pregnancy!”

One of the most troubling realities discussed in this episode is the shame and confusion many plus-size people experience around pregnancy weight gain.

Cheryl shares a devastating story about a friend who was told by her nurse to gain “no more than five pounds” for her entire pregnancy. This kind of restriction isn’t just unrealistic, it’s rooted in bias, not science.

As Cheryl and Jen explain, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends a weight gain range of 11–20 pounds for people with a higher BMI.

But this is a guideline, not a prescription. It was never intended to be used to shame or limit people’s experiences.

Cheryl advocates for care that looks at the whole picture—how a person is eating, feeling, moving, and coping emotionally. Because real prenatal health goes far beyond a number on a scale.

A Midwife’s Approach: Hands-On, Individualized Care from Prenatal to Postpartum

When it comes to prenatal care, Cheryl’s model stands in stark contrast to the rushed, one-size-fits-all care many people encounter in hospital settings.

Her appointments last 45 to 60 minutes, giving ample time to address both physical and emotional needs. She makes space for clients to talk about how they’re adjusting to their changing bodies, how they’re sleeping, what they’re eating, and what they’re afraid of.

Consent is woven into every interaction. Cheryl explains that even routine procedures like weighing are optional. Clients can opt out or request blind weights, and that choice alone can help people feel more in control and less scrutinized.

Cheryl also uses palpation, a hands-on technique to feel the baby’s position in the belly rather than relying solely on ultrasound. It’s a simple, yet intimate practice that builds trust between midwife and client and helps people connect more deeply to their pregnancies.

And when touch is involved, Cheryl always asks for permission, reinforcing the client’s agency every step of the way.

In home birth settings, physical space matters too. Cheryl adapts equipment and positions to support all bodies. She ensures that chairs are armless and sturdy, blood pressure cuffs actually fit, and birth tools like peanut balls and birthing stools are accessible.

She encourages people to practice squats, lunges, and hands-and-knee positions throughout pregnancy to feel more comfortable and capable in their own bodies.

Busting the Myth: “Plus-Size Means High-Risk”

A central theme in this conversation is confronting the myth that a high BMI equals high risk. Cheryl is clear: size alone is not a risk factor. 

Most pregnant people are low-risk and can safely consider home birth if they choose. The problem is that many care providers apply outdated or arbitrary BMI limits, denying people access to midwifery care or birth center options simplybased on a number.

Cheryl points out that unless someone enters pregnancy with a pre-existing condition like Type 1 diabetes or unmanaged heart disease, they are likely just as healthy as anyone else. But because of systemic bias, plus size parents are often told they can’t pursue home birth or even see a midwife.

This exclusion has real consequences. It robs people of choice, reinforces harmful stereotypes, and can lead to unnecessary interventions. Cheryl calls for inclusive research, revised protocols, and care models that focus on the actualneeds and risks of an individual, not assumptions tied to their weight.

Size-Inclusive Home Birth

Cheryl’s approach to home birth care offers a model of what size-friendly support looks like. It’s not about changing the client, it’s about changing the environment and the mindset of the provider.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating pregnancy in a larger body, considering home birth, or simply searching for more respectful, personalized care.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 230

Transcript happily provided upon request.

• Connect with Cheryl on Instagram @yourthrivingpregnancy

Cheryl Furer is a practicing midwife who has empowered hundreds of clients throughout their pregnancy, birth, and the first year postpartum. Her signature brand, Your Thriving Pregnancy, is helping to make midwifery mainstream by bringing pregnant women together, so that clients discover their innate power and confidence, flourish through every transition, and celebrate changes with a community.

This episode is brought to you by the Size-Friendly Birth Course—an online training for birth and postpartum professionals ready to provide size-inclusive care for people in larger bodies.

You’ll get:

• 🎥 Over 6 hours of video lessons
• 📘 A 115-page editable PDF workbook with guided activities
• 🕒 6 contact hours for professional development
• 📜 A certificate of completion
• 🌐 Bonus: Access to the Plus Size Birth Circle—our exclusive online platform and mobile app for on-the-go learning and community support

Use code PLUSMOMMY for 20% off at plussizebirth.com!

The post How Weight Bias Undermines Standard Midwifery Support appeared first on Plus Mommy.

While an advance directive can’t change Adriana’s heartbreaking situation, her story is a powerful reminder of why these documents matter.

This episode of the Plus Mommy Podcast explores what advance directives are, how they work, and why every adult, especially those who are pregnant or parenting, should have one in place.

These tools can’t stop every crisis, but they can make sure you’re not silenced when it matters most.

What is an Advance Directive?

An advance directive is a legal document that allows you to share your healthcare wishes in case you’re ever unable to speak for yourself.

It usually includes:

• A living will, which outlines the types of care you’d want (or not want), like life support or feeding tubes
• A medical power of attorney, naming someone you trust to make medical decisions for you

You can complete these documents without a lawyer, and they’re free to access online. Most states allow you to simply download a form, have it witnessed or notarized, and that’s it. You can also update your directive at any time if your wishes change.

A great place to start is CaringInfo.org, which offers free, state-specific advance directive forms.

Why having an Advance Directive Matters—Especially in Pregnancy

While serious complications during pregnancy are rare, emergencies can happen in an instant. Whether it’s a car accident, a sudden health crisis, or an unexpected turn during birth, having a plan in place for your medical care is an essential part of preparing for parenthood.

Pregnancy is a time filled with thoughtful planning—from decorating the nursery to choosing baby names and mapping out your birth preferences. But what about your medical wishes if something unexpected happens and you’re unable to speak for yourself?

That’s where an advance directive comes in. It’s a legal document that allows you to outline your preferences and designate the people you trust to make decisions on your behalf. It’s about making sure your voice is honored.

But here’s something many people don’t realize—your advance directive might not be honored if you’re pregnant, depending on where you live.

In nine states—Alabama, Indiana, Kansas, Michigan, Missouri, South Carolina, Texas, Utah, and Wisconsin—your advance directive can be automatically invalidated during pregnancy, no matter what it says.

That means even if you’ve made your wishes crystal clear, the law may require life-sustaining treatment to continue simply because you’re pregnant.

In 20 other states, your wishes may only be followed if a physician determines the fetus isn’t viable or wouldn’t survive even with treatment. Those states include: Alaska, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, and Washington.

Yes, in nearly 30 states, there are regulations regarding advance directives during pregnancy.

So while creating an advance directive is still a crucial step in advocating for your care, it’s equally important to understand how your state’s laws treat pregnancy-related exclusions.

Unless, heartbreakingly, you’re in a circumstance like Adriana’s—where even your carefully made decisions can be taken away, the people you love and trust should be the ones making choices for you.

Taking time to create an advance directive and researching your state’s laws can be an empowering act of protection for both you and your baby.

Learn more here.

A True Gift to Your Loved Ones

Advance directives aren’t just for you; they’re a gift to the people you love. They offer clarity and peace at a time when everything else feels overwhelming.

And they’re not just for older people. I’ve worked with families who wished they’d had these conversations sooner.

Medical emergencies don’t care how old you are. The younger you are, the more likely you haven’t written your wishes, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t.

Start Today

You don’t have to wait for a big life event to fill out an advance directive.

You can start today. Right now.

Download your form, have the conversation, choose your person (or people), and write down what matters most. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be done.

Download your form, talk with your loved ones, choose the person (or people) you trust, and put your wishes in writing.

This is healthcare advocacy—and your voice deserves to be heard.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 230

Transcript happily provided upon request.

• CaringInfo.org – Advance Directives by State
• Pregnancy Exclusions for Advance Directives
• Adriana Smith’s GoFundMe

a community.

This episode is brought to you by the Size-Friendly Birth Course—an online training for birth and postpartum professionals ready to provide size-inclusive care for people in larger bodies.

You’ll get:

• 🎥 Over 6 hours of video lessons
• 📘 A 115-page editable PDF workbook with guided activities
• 🕒 6 contact hours for professional development
• 📜 A certificate of completion
• 🌐 Bonus: Access to the Plus Size Birth Circle—our exclusive online platform and mobile app for on-the-go learning and community support

Use code PLUSMOMMY for 20% off at plussizebirth.com!

The post Denied a Say: Why Advance Directives Matter—Even in Pregnancy appeared first on Plus Mommy.

Drawing from her professional expertise and personal experience as a two-time NICU parent, Rebecca shares practical advice and deeply moving insights for anyone preparing for birth or recovering after an unexpected hospital stay.

From NICU Parent to NICU Nurse

Rebecca’s path to becoming a nurse began after a traumatic postpartum experience. Her first child was born with a heart condition and whisked away to the NICU moments after birth.

Grieving, overwhelmed, and in physical pain, Rebecca felt completely alone. That experience drove her to become a postpartum doula—and eventually a NICU nurse.

Her rare perspective as both parent and professional allows her to offer care that’s truly trauma-informed and deeply empathetic.

What Postpartum Doulas Really Do

While many families focus on preparing for birth, postpartum often gets overlooked—especially when complications arise.

Rebecca explains how postpartum doulas provide emotional, physical, and practical support. From helping with feeding and newborn care to preparing meals and honoring cultural healing rituals, doulas show up when families need it most.

She also highlights how postpartum doulas can be essential during NICU stays and in processing birth trauma and grief.

How to Prepare for a Possible NICU Stay

While no one wants to imagine their baby needing intensive care, Rebecca gently encourages parents to prepare—just in case.

She shares three simple but impactful steps:

Have a flexible food plan: Prep meals in advance, ask for help with a Meal Train, or list out local delivery options so nourishing food is ready when it’s most needed.

Line up extended support: Identify trusted friends or family who can help with older children, pets, or your home in case of an extended hospital stay.

Choose a communication liaison: Appoint someone to update family and friends, so you’re not reliving emotional updates multiple times a day.

What to Expect in the NICU

The NICU can be overwhelming. Rebecca offers tips to help parents feel more grounded:

• Bring comfort items like a blanket, pillow, slippers, or essential oils.
• Ask for an orientation—learn what monitors do, who’s on your care team, and what to expect during rounds.
• Use a notebook or your phone to jot down questions and record updates.
• Advocate for what you need, like a more comfortable chair or privacy.

“You are part of the care team,” Rebecca emphasizes. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions or speak up.”

Staying Connected with Your Baby

Even in the NICU, there are powerful ways to bond:

• Leave behind scent cloths or comforting items so your presence remains when you step away.
• Practice skin-to-skin contact when possible for both bonding and healing.
• Talk, sing, or read aloud so your baby can hear your familiar voice.
• Leave behind scent cloths or comforting items so your presence remains when you step away.

When You Have to Leave the Hospital Without Your Baby

One of the most emotionally painful experiences is going home without your newborn. Rebecca offers compassionate suggestions:

• Create a simple ritual for saying goodbye, like a special phrase or gesture.
• Take home your baby’s blanket or hat to stay connected through scent.
• Remember you can call the NICU anytime for updates—just ask about getting a security code.

Healing in the NICU and Beyond

Rebecca’s book, Navigating the NICU: A Self-Care Guide for Parents, centers on one powerful idea: your postpartum period still matters—even in crisis.

She encourages parents to nourish themselves with warming, grounding foods and to make space for emotional healing by:

• Telling or recording your birth story—unedited and unfiltered.
• Naming the grief and trauma without shame.
• Letting yourself feel everything, and knowing you are not alone.

Learn even more during episode 228 of the Plus Mommy Podcast.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 228

Transcript happily provided upon request.

• Buy the book: Navigating the NICU: A Self-Care Guide for Parents
• Explore the shop and community: WeAreMarigolde.com
• Follow on Instagram and Facebook.

Rebecca Servoss, the Co-Founder and COO of Marigolde, is a nurse, writer, and mother. Rebecca has dedicated her adult life to supporting new parents through the transformation of birthing to becoming a family. She profoundly cares that all people traversing the deeply transformational experiences of birth, death, and loss, are met with a compassionate multifaceted framework that centers equity and safety. Rebecca is a Board Certified Holistic Nurse Coach and Certified Ayurvedic Health Counselor, and offers clients an intuitive and holistic approach to vitality and resilience while creating structure to safely explore and express their grief and reflect on their story.

You’ll get:

• 🎥 Over 6 hours of video lessons
• 📘 A 115-page editable PDF workbook with guided activities
• 🕒 6 contact hours for professional development
• 📜 A certificate of completion
• 🌐 Bonus: Access to the Plus Size Birth Circle—our exclusive online platform and mobile app for on-the-go learning and community support

Use code PLUSMOMMY for 20% off at plussizebirth.com!

The post The NICU and Postpartum: What One Nurse Hopes You Know appeared first on Plus Mommy.

Elizabeth shares her deeply personal journey—from overcoming harmful body messages to creating real change within healthcare systems. Together, we explore how compassionate, individualized care can spark a ripple effect of healing, not just for one pregnancy, but for families and communities for generations to come.

A Personal Journey to Midwifery

Before becoming a midwife, Elizabeth was deeply involved in theater and dance—moving her body joyfully at any size.

After a life-changing injury in college, her relationship with movement and her body shifted. She shares, “Before I was injured, I did not have a great relationship with my body and wasn’t compassionate to my own form.”

This personal evolution set the stage for her advocacy work in maternity care. Elizabeth fell in love with being an advocate for pregnant people and doulas, eventually leading her into midwifery school.

During her education, she did the deep work of unpacking harmful biases about body size and health that she had absorbed over the years.

Healing Through Birth

When Elizabeth became pregnant with her first child, she sought midwifery care that honored her body as it was.

She recalls, “I had a midwife with me that never once made me question my ability to give birth.” That experience—free from shame, judgment, or weight bias—was transformational.

She gave birth at home and describes her midwife’s focus on quality nutrition and individualized care rather than numbers on a scale.

This healing experience helped Elizabeth not only during her own pregnancy but shaped the compassionate care she now provides to others.

Challenging Weight Bias in Maternity Care

Elizabeth faced weight discrimination firsthand during her second pregnancy when she was told by a colleague, “Midwives don’t take care of people like you and me.”

At that moment, she realized how deeply rooted weight bias was—even within midwifery care.

She shares, “I was shocked like you just were, and immediately went back to a place of shame.” But she didn’t stay frozen for long. Instead, Elizabeth used that experience to fuel major change.

Her doctoral project helped eliminate BMI restrictions at her facility—a shift that continues to create ripple effects today.

Elizabeth reminds us that weight bias can lead to misdiagnoses and harm during pregnancy simply because of inaccurate practices, like using the wrong size blood pressure cuff or inadequate seating.

“We can risk someone out of midwifery care who should have never been risked out, just simply because the way we took their blood pressure was incorrect.”

The Ripple Effect of Compassionate Care

Midwifery care, when practiced without bias, can truly change lives.

Elizabeth reflects, “There is something about having a pregnancy and wellness care provider who sees you when you have spent so much of your life trying to be invisible.”

This type of care not only changes how people experience pregnancy—it transforms how they see themselves, their bodies, and even how they raise their children.

“I have found that the language I use is already repeated, and it’s natural for them [my kids] to say things like, I need nourishment.”

We also talk about the importance of questioning guidelines, advocating for policy change, and the collective effort needed to build more inclusive, evidence-based maternity care. “If we say we care for the whole person, then that has to mean the whole of every person.”

Midwifery: A Call for Change

Elizabeth shares that change in maternity care requires a multifaceted approach—from midwives practicing to the full extent of their scope, to consumers demanding better care, to institutions rewriting outdated, biased guidelines.

Her message is clear: Midwifery care should be accessible to all pregnant people who desire it, regardless of size or background. And for those navigating maternity care today, Elizabeth encourages you to remember that you are worthy of individualized, compassionate care.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 227

Transcript happily provided upon request.

• Eight Ways to Mitigate Weight Bias in Healthcare

Elizabeth Muñoz, DNP, CNM, FACNM (she/her) is a Certified Nurse-Midwife with experience in midwifery education, scholarship, and clinical practice. She is a Fellow of the American College of Nurse-Midwives and received her Master’s and Doctoral degrees from Vanderbilt University School of Nursing in Nashville, TN. Her scholarship activities include preventing size bias in midwives and clinicians providing reproductive healthcare and promoting the midwifery model as a solution to the maternal mortality crisis in the United States. Liz is passionate about improving access to full-scope midwifery care, including deepening the understanding that midwives can lead the charge for practice change in various settings.

This episode is brought to you by the Size-Friendly Birth Course—an online training for birth and postpartum professionals ready to provide size-inclusive care for people in larger bodies.

You’ll get:

• 🎥 Over 6 hours of video lessons
• 📘 A 115-page editable PDF workbook with guided activities
• 🕒 6 contact hours for professional development
• 📜 A certificate of completion
• 🌐 Bonus: Access to the Plus Size Birth Circle—our exclusive online platform and mobile app for on-the-go learning and community support

Use code PLUSMOMMY for 20% off at plussizebirth.com!

The post Midwifery’s Ripple Effect: How Care Creates Change appeared first on Plus Mommy.

In Episode 226 of the Plus Mommy Podcast, I had the profound honor of speaking with Sabia Wade—a Black queer CEO, educator, full-spectrum doula, and author of Birthing Liberation: How Reproductive Justice Can Set Us Free.

Sabia’s work invites us to challenge the very systems that shape our healthcare experiences and to reimagine birth work as a space rooted in justice, community, and healing. In this powerful conversation, we talk about medical bias, chronic stress, weight stigma, spiritual care, and the emotional toll of burnout—all through the lens of reproductive justice.

Bias in the Birth Room

Sabia and I explored how weight bias and racism are deeply woven into maternity care. From being denied access to surgeries based on BMI to being ignored or misdiagnosed by providers, we unpack how bias harms—and sometimes endangers—birthing people.

“People aren’t broken. The system is broken.” – Sabia Wade

We also talk about how bias shows up differently depending on body size and how factors like race, gender identity, and income level intersect in powerful, often harmful ways.

Burnout Isn’t Just About Doing Too Much

For those of us in birth work, burnout can feel inevitable. But as Sabia shares, it’s not just about overworking—it’s about navigating systems that aren’t built to support care workers, especially those in marginalized bodies.

From the emotional labor of witnessing harm to the spiritual toll of holding space in a system that often resists change, Sabia gets real about the burnout that comes with this work—and why building a team and community is essential for sustainability.

Liberation Through Reproductive Justice

At the heart of our conversation is this powerful truth: Reproductive justice is about more than birth—it’s about creating a world where people can live freely and fully.

Sabia shares how spiritual tools, nervous system support, and deep community care are essential to truly liberatory birth work. We also discuss her powerful storytelling in Birthing Liberation, where she rewrites a tragic birth outcome to show what’s possible when people are centered, believed, and cared for.

“Hope is a discipline. Liberation is a daily practice.” – Sabia Wade

What You Can Do

Whether you’re a parent, a perinatal professional, or someone learning how to better support your community, this episode is a call-in and a call-to-action.

Sabia reminds us that we all have a role to play. Sometimes it’s asking better questions and calling out harm. Sometimes it’s doing the inner work to show up with less bias and more intention.

“We do this work for the people who don’t even know they’re not free yet.” – Sabia Wade

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 225

Transcript happily provided upon request.

• Birthing Liberation by Sabia Wade
• Birthing Advocacy Doula Trainings
• For the Village – Sabia’s nonprofit in San Diego
• Found Free Podcast
• Follow Sabia on Instagram: @sabiawade, @forthevillageinc, @birthingadvocacy
• Pushout: The Criminalization of Black Girls in Schools by Monique W. Morris

Sabia Wade (she/they), is a Black, queer, CEO, author, educator, full-spectrum doula, investor, and expander of Black luxury. Sabia is the founder of Birthing Advocacy Doula Trainings, an accessible and inclusive training program for community care workers, and For the Village, a non-profit providing doulas at no or low-cost to low-income and marginalized communities in San Diego.

As a coach, board member, investor, educator, and programming development consultant for organizations throughout the Birth and Reproductive Health Industry, every part of Sabia’s work centers on liberation of all people through Reproductive Justice. Her book, Birthing Liberation: How Reproductive Justice Can Set Us Free, is now available for purchase. Additionally, Sabia is a certified reiki practitioner, death doula, somatic practitioner, human design reader, wedding officiant, and is currently working toward becoming a Spiritual Director!

This episode is brought to you by the Size-Friendly Birth Course—an online training for birth and postpartum professionals ready to provide size-inclusive care for people in larger bodies.

You’ll get:

• 🎥 Over 6 hours of video lessons
• 📘 A 115-page editable PDF workbook with guided activities
• 🕒 6 contact hours for professional development
• 📜 A certificate of completion
• 🌐 Bonus: Access to the Plus Size Birth Circle—our exclusive online platform and mobile app for on-the-go learning and community support

Use code PLUSMOMMY for 20% off at plussizebirth.com!

The post Bias, Burnout & Liberation in Birth Work with Sabia Wade appeared first on Plus Mommy.

This conversation is filled with laughter, tears, and the kind of raw honesty that makes you feel like you’re catching up with a dear friend. From childhood pain to Hollywood red carpets, Chrissy shares how she continues to show up, authentically and wholeheartedly.

From Little Girl with Big Dreams to Emmy-Nominated Actress

When Jen launched the Plus Mommy Podcast back in 2018, Chrissy Metz was one of her dream guests. And now, here she is.

“I’m literally just a regular girl…trying to figure out this life thing,” Chrissy says humbly in response to Jen’s excitement.

Chrissy believes in the power of putting your dreams out there and watching them manifest—something she’s done again and again, even when she had just 81 cents in her bank account before landing This Is Us.

Chrissy spoke candidly about her childhood, including growing up as a “sad little girl” navigating divorce, blended family dynamics, and feeling unseen. “If she was seen, it was that she was too much,” she reflects. But through it all, her grandmother—affectionately known as Gram—offered her love and spiritual guidance. “I really believe that things happen for us, not to us.”

Kate’s Story Was Her Story—And Ours Too

The impact of Chrissy’s role on This Is Us cannot be overstated, especially for those who had never seen a plus-size woman portrayed with such care and complexity.

“I’m a big girl, and I don’t see big girls represented,” Jen shares, reflecting on how much it meant to watch Kate’s storyline unfold.

From a powerful miscarriage storyline to navigating fertility and motherhood, Kate’s experiences mirrored the real lives of so many—especially plus size parents who have often felt overlooked or blamed. Jen shared a deeply emotional moment from a blog post she wrote, We Need To Talk About Kate’s This Is Us Plus Size Birth Story, during the show’s run:

“Kate’s loss was my loss, and once again, I felt seen. This Is Us writers gave plus-size loss moms a gift when they didn’t blame Kate’s miscarriage on her weight. Through my tears, I was cheering.”

Chrissy recalls the care that went into crafting that storyline. “There has to be a gentleness to it and compassion around it,” she says. She also shared how cathartic it was to portray a daughter loved unconditionally by her on-screen father, Jack—something she never experienced herself.

“Jack loved Kate in every single way… I never knew that kind of love, and certainly not from a father figure.”

Behind the Scenes: Healing, Humor, and Real Talk

Despite playing such an emotional role, Chrissy found moments of humor and healing behind the scenes. She shared how acting alongside Chris Sullivan (Toby) helped her push through moments of self-doubt: “He looked at me and said, ‘You can.’ And I did.”

Chrissy also talked about what it was like to go from being cast in roles like “Chunk the Cheerleader” to wearing a fat suit on American Horror Story—and how that impacted her relationship with her body.

“When I took off my costume, I was still the chubby girl. Still the big girl.”

It was both a mind trip and a powerful reminder that while others could remove their prosthetics, she was living her experience in real life.

But through it all, she held onto her dream of performing—and found her way back to music and writing.

On Writing, Faith, and Big Feelings

Chrissy’s latest children’s book, When I Talk to God, I Talk About Feelings, is a follow-up to her first book When I Talk to God, I Talk About You. Inspired by the emotional conversations she had with children during readings of her first book, Chrissy knew this second story had to focus on feelings.

“I didn’t feel heard or seen as a kid, so this is going to be very healing and cathartic for me.”

Co-authored by Bradley Collins and illustrated by Lisa Fields, the book features a diverse cast of animal characters and subtle nods to inclusion, reminding children that all feelings are valid—and that everyone is worthy of love.

Accompanying the book is a new album titled Big Feelings, where each song focuses on a different emotion. “We have a sad song, disappointed, mad, excited, happy… all as a way to help kids name and process their emotions.”

A Life of Authenticity and Grace

Throughout the conversation, Chrissy offers so many gems of wisdom. One story that stuck is when Chrissy made a mistake at the studio gate and felt the shame spiral begin. Instead of letting it eat at her, she turned the car around, went back, and apologized.

“That was a very big moment for me in my life… You don’t have to feel bad forever. You can fix things.”

When asked to share a final word of encouragement, Chrissy left us with this powerful reminder:

“Nothing is personal.”

“We don’t know what people are going through… When we remember that, we can offer more grace to others—and to ourselves.”

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 225

Transcript happily provided upon request.

Resources Mentioned On The Show

• Connect with Chrissy via her website, Instagram, and Facebook
• When I Talk to God, I Talk About Feelings
• Actor Jen Ponton Dishes About Dietland, Fat Activism, And More
• Freebie: We Can Do Hard Things: Audio Support for Your Appointments

This episode is brought to you by the Size-Friendly Birth Course—an online training for birth and postpartum professionals ready to provide size-inclusive care for people in larger bodies.

You’ll get:

• 🎥 Over 6 hours of video lessons
• 📘 A 115-page editable PDF workbook with guided activities
• 🕒 6 contact hours for professional development
• 📜 A certificate of completion
• 🌐 Bonus: Access to the Plus Size Birth Circle—our exclusive online platform and mobile app for on-the-go learning and community support

Use code PLUSMOMMY for 20% off at plussizebirth.com!

The post Chrissy Metz Talks Fame, Faith, and Finding Her Way appeared first on Plus Mommy.

Laurel highlights a crucial issue: the tradition of silence around menopause.

Many feel isolated, not realizing that their peers are experiencing similar changes. Laurel emphasizes the importance of breaking this silence and openly discussing perimenopause and menopause.

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the stage when the ovaries start producing less estrogen, leading to a decline in progesterone as well.

This hormonal shift can cause mood swings, sleep disturbances, menstrual changes, and changes in body fat distribution.

The average age for perimenopause onset in the United States is 42, and it can last around ten years.

Symptoms and Challenges

Common symptoms of perimenopause include:

• Mood swings
• Sleep disturbances
• Menstrual flooding
• Changes in body fat distribution
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Brain fog
• Changes in the microbiome

Laurel also touches on the emotional and physical challenges, such as feeling like a teenager again with unpredictable periods and new physical changes.

Hormonal Testing and Support

Laurel advises finding a healthcare practitioner who can perform hormonal testing to get a comprehensive understanding of your hormonal levels.

This can help manage symptoms more effectively. She also mentions the Menopause Society, which certifies healthcare practitioners in menopause care.

The Role of Fat and Estrogen

Laurel explains that as estrogen levels decline, our bodies compensate by producing estrogen through adipose (fat) tissue around the abdomen.

This process is our body’s way of protecting us during this transitional phase. Understanding this can help reframe how we view changes in our bodies.

Nutrition and Lifestyle Adjustments

Nutrition and lifestyle play a significant role in managing perimenopause symptoms.

Laurel suggests focusing on fiber-rich foods, adjusting your diet based on your hormonal needs, and avoiding foods that may exacerbate symptoms.

Sleep is also crucial, as sleep disturbances can lead to increased cortisol levels and other health issues.

Importance of Professional Guidance

It’s essential to consult healthcare professionals who specialize in hormonal health and menopause.

Functional medicine practitioners and certified menopause healthcare providers can offer tailored advice and support.

The Positive Side of Perimenopause

Despite the challenges, Laurel encourages us to view perimenopause as a period of transformation.

As our brains remodel, we can experience a newfound freedom and creativity.

This phase allows us to reinvent ourselves and embrace new opportunities.

Perimenopause is a significant transition that brings physical and emotional changes. By breaking the silence, seeking professional guidance, and making informed lifestyle adjustments, we can navigate this phase with confidence and support.

Learn more from Laurel during episode 224 of the Plus Mommy Podcast.

Recording & Show Notes: Plus Mommy Podcast Episode 224

Transcript happily provided upon request.

Resources Mentioned On The Show

• Everything You Want To Know About Plus Size Breastfeeding, episode 58 of the Plus Mommy Podcast
• Move, Thrive, Feel Alive: Peri/Menopause Support 
• For more information on Laurel’s work and resources, visit her on Facebook, Instagram, or website.

Laurel Wilson, IBCLC, RLC, INHC, CLE, CLD, CCCE, PPFE Wellness Advocate, International Speaker, Retreat Guide, and Transition Mentor Laurel is an international speaker, author, journeyer, traveler, wellness advocate, mother, wife, friend, and seeker.

She is a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and a Certified Menopause Practitioner. Laurel has spent thirty years educating and supporting women throughout the various life cycles as a doula, lactation consultant, perinatal educator, speaker, author of best-selling books, yoga instructor, Camino travel guide, and wellness coach. She is interested in epigenetics, the microbiome, nutrition, and sleep.

During her experience in the transition time of life (perimenopause), she realized how many women feel estranged and wish for community AND answers during this time. This led to her desire to be a transition mentor and offer retreats to support women experiencing this incredible and challenging life change. She enjoys writing books, speaking at conferences on perinatal and women’s health issues, consulting, training the healthcare community on women’s health issues, and serving on maternal child health boards. You can often find her hiking, meditating, mountain biking, kayaking, taking road trips, and reading women’s travel books, spiritual books, and historical biographies.

The post Perimenopause: What’s Happening to My Body and Why? appeared first on Plus Mommy.