Anna Asks
By Anna Cusack
From pregnancy to prejudice, parenting to the pandemic, sleep to sexuality to social justice, we’ll be digging into the topics that matter to all of us, whether we like it or not.
This podcast was previously titled “Motherhood Made Magic”.
Anna Cusack is a speaker, mentor, connector, doula and author of “Mama, You're Not Broken: Unmasking the Unspoken Emotions of Modern Motherhood”
Anna AsksAug 27, 2021
S8, Ep1: Flu season, carers' leave and the career stumbling block we don't speak about
Flu season, carers' leave and the career stumbling block we don't speak about (annacusack.com.au)
**In this episode I use the phrase "disabled child". I have made the decision to use "identity first" language rather than "person first" language, which you can read more about here:
Person-first and identity-first language | vic.gov.au (www.vic.gov.au)
Thinking of joining Anna's online community membership? It's $15AUD/month (or just $9 for concession/single parents) and features private member-only articles, a forum, regular zoom connection calls and more.
Default Parent Project Online Community - Anna Cusack
Connect with Anna's other services (birth mapping, postpartum planning, birth debriefing, parent support sessions, custom ceremonies), public articles, and upcoming mothers' circles and events at www.annacusack.com.au
You can also find her (sometimes) on Instagram @annacusackpostpartum and grab her book "Mama, You're Not Broken - Unmasking the Unspoken Emotions of Modern Motherhood" here: www.annacusack.com.au/book
S7, Ep7. Emmeline Tyler - From bliss to psychosis and the long road back to mental health as a mother
We now know it's important to be on the lookout for signs of postnatal depression, anxiety and even psychosis in the early days, but what happens if a mother experiences a mental health crisis further down the track? In this interview, Emmeline Tyler (she/her) shares openly about her birth and blissful postpartum, and how these assisted in helping her be well. She explains how personal and societal factors influenced the unravelling of her mental health during the toddler years, which escalated into psychosis and hospitalisation 2.5 years after birth. Recorded a further 2.5 years down the track, Emmeline shares her insights into the mental health system, her path to recovery and ongoing mental health management, and how her family are seeking to build a life with mental wellness for all as their focus. We also go on a few feminist-y tangents and discuss books because it's us and how could we not?
Content warnings: birth interventions, medical and hospital trauma, psychosis.
Note: This episode was recorded in 2023 and discusses homeschooling. Both mine and Emmeline's children are in formalised educational environments this year (2024).
Links On use/misuse of certain words including "tribe": https://www.wellandgood.com/spirit-animal-native-american/ If you are interested in finding out more about the Newborn Mothers postpartum care and education course you can do so via this affiliate link: https://newbornmothers.simplero.com/products/172434-Postpartum-Education-and-Care?ref=46186-Anna-Cusack
The Talia Hibbert books we mentioned: https://www.goodreads.com/series/271642-the-brown-sisters
Where to find us Emmeline is the co-host of the soon-to-be-released "Explaining Autism" podcast with Julia Jones. She also has a YouTube channel where she does the hard yards of reading and reviewing a stack of fiction and non-fiction books so you'll never get stuck with a dud read again! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChzD1TesIcsfEkuitdQhXTQ Emmeline is also on Instagram @emmelineysun Connect with Anna's services (birth mapping, postpartum planning, birth debriefing and parent support sessions), articles and upcoming mothers' circles at www.annacusack.com.au
You can also find her (sometimes) on Instagram @annacusackpostpartum and grab her book "Mama, You're Not Broken - Unmasking the Unspoken Emotions of Modern Motherhood" here: www.annacusack.com.au/book
S7, Ep6. Ashley Winning - Fatphobia and perceptions of "health" and "risk" in maternity care
The study I refer to regarding rates of uncomplicated pregnancies in obese women is by Relph et al., 2021.
Characteristics associated with uncomplicated pregnancies in women with obesity: a population-based cohort study
The books I recommend at the start of the episode are "Plus Size Pregnancy" by Dr Sara Wickham, and "Birth After Caesarean" by Hazel Keedle, PhD.
You can find Ashley at www.themotherhoodcircle.com.au and as @ashleylwinning on Instagram. Her podcast is The VBAC Homebirth Stories Podcast. Ashley is currently launching a VBAC Membership and running a fabulous giveaway to go along with that launch. You can find out more and join the waitlist at ashleywinning.com/vbac-village-waitlist/
Find me at www.annacusack.com.au and as @annacusackpostpartum on Instagram
S7, Ep5. Postpartum Rage, Depression and Bilingual, Latina Motherhood with Emily Adler Mosqueda
S7, Ep4 - Making Your Voice Heard After Disrespectful Maternity Care with Sharon Stoliar
Get Sharon's free download: "Your Guide to Writing a Letter of Complaint eGuide" at www.sharonstoliar.com/product-page/your-guide-to-writing-a-letter-of-complaint-eguide
Connect with Sharon on instagram @endingbirthtrauma and online www.sharonstoliar.com/ Sharon’s research on midwives’ birth choices and outcomes: www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S187151922200302X
You can find Anna's "Default Parent Project" Substack and community at annacusack.substack.com
As always, you can download Anna's free Six Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum eGuide, arrange a session with her or grab a copy of her book "Mama, You're Not Broken" via www.annacusack.com.au.
Anna is also on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
Head to anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month. Every little bit helps and you can sub out at any time, no questions asked.
Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode, or share with a friend. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
S7, Ep3 - Queering Motherhood with Rafferty Hallows
You can find Anna's shiny new Substack "Mother Thinkers" newsletter and community at annacusack.substack.com
As always, you can download Anna's free Six Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum eGuide, arrange a session with her or grab a copy of her book "Mama, You're Not Broken" via www.annacusack.com.au.
Anna is also on socials @annacusackpostpartum
Head to anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month. Every little bit helps and you can sub out at any time, no questions asked. Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode, or share with a friend. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
S7, Ep2. Neurodivergent Parenthood with Annie Crowe
You can connect with Annie on instagram @_anniecrowe and find out about her various services and roles via linktr.ee/anniecrowe
Learn more abut the work of Eating Disorders Neurodiversity Australia at www.edneuroaus.com
You can find Anna's shiny new Substack "Mother Thinkers" newsletter and community at annacusack.substack.com
As always, you can download Anna's free Six Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum eGuide, arrange a session with her or grab a copy of her book "Mama, You're Not Broken" via www.annacusack.com.au.
Anna is also on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
Head to anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month. Every little bit helps and you can sub out at any time, no questions asked.
Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode, or share with a friend. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
S7, Ep1 - Alcohol and Motherhood with Meg and Bella
Alcohol and motherhood is an interesting topic for one that's so in the forefront of our lives but the margins of our conversations. In this episode I speak with Meg and Bella, cohosts of the She's Sober Sydney podcast. Our chat covers:
- Meg and Bella's personal stories with alcohol as mothers
- The pressures on mothers and normalising of "mummy wine culture"
- The cycle of alcohol to mitigate (but then raise) anxiety
- How their relationship with their kids has changed since going alcohol free
- How to start talking with kids about alcohol
- Does alcohol really help you relax or get to sleep, or is it a placebo effect?
- The big fear - losing friends by being the "odd one out" non-drinker
- What is grey area drinking and where can you go if you're sober curious?
Megan Webb: https://glassfulfilled.com.au
Instagram: @glassfulfilled
Isabella Ferguson: https://isabellaferguson.com.au
Instagram: @letstalkalcoholaustralia
Instagram: @kidsandalcohol
As always, you can find Anna and her free Six Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum eGuide, arrange a session with her or grab her book "Mama, You're Not Broken" via www.annacusack.com.au.
Anna is also on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
Head to https://anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month. Every little bit helps and you can sub out at any time, no questions asked.
Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode, or share with a friend. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
S6, Ep8 - 4 months postpartum
S6, Ep7 - 3 months postpartum
Upcoming mothers’ circles starting 26 March www.annacusack.com.au/products/177801-Mothers-Circles
My take on “The fourth trimester vs “postpartum is forever’ concept” www.instagram.com/p/CojRGndPXvY/?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Signs of readiness for solids from @boobtofood www.boobtofood.com/blog/2021/12/15/starting-solids
S6, Ep6 - 10 weeks postpartum
University of Newcastle’s colonial frontier massacre mapping project - c21ch.newcastle.edu.au/colonialmassacres/
Info on feeding babies who are windy, spit up a lot or struggle to keep up with milk flow - themilkmeg.com/can-i-overfeed-my-breastfed-baby/
The epidural - how a gift for the few became the curse of many - www.annacusack.com.au/blog/77941-the-epidural-how-the-gift-of-the-few
Book a 90min session with me here www.calendly.com/annacusack/
Get the Birth Map book here birthmap.life/?affiliates=45 [affiliate link]
Learn about upcoming Postpartum education and care professional training here: newbornmothers.simplero.com/products/172434-Postpartum-Education-and-Care?ref=46186-Anna-Cusack [affiliate link]
Please leave a 5 star rating and review to help others find real life stories to connect with, or become a supporter for Aus2.99 a month here: anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe
S6, Ep5 -Postpartum diary 7.5 weeks
S6, Ep4 - Postpartum diary, 4.5 weeks
S6, Ep3 - Postpartum diary week 3
S6, Ep2 - Postpartum diary week 2
S6, Ep1 - Postpartum diary week 1
S5, Ep8. Anna Cusack - My personal postpartum prep
S5, Ep7. Anna Cusack - Preparing for my own birth
As always, her free Six Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum eGuide, arrange a 1:1 mentoring or postpartum planning session or grab Anna’s book "Mama, You're Not Broken" via www.annacusack.com.au.
Head to anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month. Every little bit helps and you can sub out at any time, no questions asked.
Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode, or share with a friend. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
S5, Ep6. Steph O'Brien - Postpartum doula, HG pregnancy, 2nd baby
Steph O’Brien joins us from Geelong to talk HG pregnancy with her second baby, preparing for birth after birth trauma and planning a postpartum that’s much, much more supported than her first was. We discuss the far reaching physical and emotional effects of pregnancy-related illness, judgement from others and ourselves regarding our birthing choices, and not knowing what we don’t know.
In this episode we refer to:
- Hyperemesis Australia - https://www.hyperemesisaustralia.org.au/
- PANDA (Perinatal Anxiety and Depression Australia) helpline - 1300 726 306 Monday to Friday 9am - 7.30pm (AEST/AEDT)
- Antenatal expression of colostrum and hand expressing. Please note that around 25% of women do not respond to attempts at antenatal expressing and this has no bearing on your later supply or ability to feed your baby at the breast! https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/resources/hand-expressing
Connect with Steph on Instagram @postpartum_with_steph and enjoy her postpartum diaries on the “Postpartum Stories with Steph” podcast. https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/postpartum-stories-with-steph/id1511307920
Find Anna on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
As always, her free Six Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum eGuide, arrange a 1:1 mentoring or postpartum planning session or grab Anna’s book "Mama, You're Not Broken" via www.annacusack.com.au.
Head to https://anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month. Every little bit helps and you can sub out at any time, no questions asked.
Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode, or share with a friend. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
S5, Ep5. Mary Allen - Freebirth doula, 3rd baby
Birth doula Mary talks us through her first two pregnancies and induced hospital births, her feelings around traversing a largely medically unsurveilled pregnancy this time around, and what her preparations for an autonomous, family-centred third birth entail. We discuss why birth outside the system feels right for her and many of her clients, and what support and rituals she plans to include as she welcomes baby number 3 into the world.
In this episode we referred to The Midwives Cauldron podcast on multiple occasions! You can access that podcast with hosts Katie James and Dr Rachel Reed here.
Connect with Mary on Facebook and Instagram @wbdoulaservices and via her website www.widebaydoulaservices.com.
More info on Anna’s upcoming “Moving Beyond Mum Guilt” workshops at www.annacusack.com.au/products
As always, her free Six Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum eGuide, arrange a 1:1 mentoring or postpartum planning session or grab Anna’s book "Mama, You're Not Broken" via www.annacusack.com.au.
Anna is also on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
Head to https://anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month. Every little bit helps and you can sub out at any time, no questions asked.
Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode, or share with a friend. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
S5, Ep4. Dr Hayley Worth - GP, 2nd baby, Newborn stage
I speak with Dr. Hayley Worth, a Sydney-based GP with special interests in children's health and also palliative care.
Dr. Hayley chats to us from her fourth trimester bubble, newborn on her lap, as she reflects on the lessons she learnt from her first birth and challenging breastfeeding and postpartum experiences, and the effectiveness of the plans she put in place for the recent birth of her son and her feeding journey and postpartum to date.
I love hearing how professionals recognise their limitations and lean on others, even within the same discipline as themselves, to ensure they get the support they desire to feel their best. This episode is a shorter one at just under 30mins long, with a few sound effects from bub in the background in the early minutes of the recording.
In this episode we referred to this episode of the Tales from the Fourth Trimester podcast with Dr. Eliza Hannam, GP and IBCLC.
Connect with Dr Hayley on Instagram @drhayleyworth.
More info on Anna’s upcoming “Moving Beyond Mum Guilt” workshops at www.annacusack.com.au/products
As always, her free Six Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum eGuide, arrange a 1:1 mentoring or postpartum planning session or grab Anna’s book "Mama, You're Not Broken" via www.annacusack.com.au.
Anna is also on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
Head to https://anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month. Every little bit helps and you can sub out at any time, no questions asked.
Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode, or share with a friend. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
S5, Ep3. Kathryn Millhouse - Perinatal Guide, Supporter and Mental Health Advocate
S5, Ep2. Kate Elizabeth – 3rd baby, privately practising midwife.
Kate is a Victorian-based privately practising midwife providing antenatal, homebirth, postnatal and parenting services. Kate discusses her experience during this pregnancy so far, and her trust in her ability to birth in relation to her family lineage, previous two births and her professional work. We discuss her preparations to welcome surprise baby #3 into her family, including labour prep, preparing siblings for homebirth and how she intends to get as much sleep as possible with a newborn and two older kids who like to co-sleep. We also touch on how, as a “geriatric” mother over 40 with a higher BMI, Kate’s path to date may have looked different had she been planning on birthing in “the system” rather than outside of it.
Connect with Kate via her website https://www.kateelizabethparenting.com.au and instagram @kate_elizabeth_parenting
Find out more about the upcoming "Beyond Mum Guilt" workshop here: https://www.mselysegreen.com/bay-mothers-collective
Study by Stoliar, Dahlen and Sheehan (2022) https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S187151922200302X
As always, you can find Anna and her free Six Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum eGuide, arrange a session with her or grab her book "Mama, You're Not Broken" via www.annacusack.com.au. Anna is also on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum Head to https://anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month. Every little bit helps and you can sub out at any time, no questions asked. Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode, or share with a friend. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
S5, Ep1. Saira Allen – 2nd tri, 3rd baby, postpartum doula
Newcastle-based postpartum doula Saira Allen joins me to kick off this season, which asks the question “How do those involved in pregnancy, birth and postnatal care prepare when they are the ones having a baby?”
This theme has come about because if you didn’t know already I am actually in my second trimester with my second child, and I wanted to share not only my story and expertise but the combined knowledge and plans of others to show you there’s more than one way to get your needs met during this perinatal period, which is the time through fertility and conception right through to early postpartum and infancy.
If you want to know from personal and professional experience how to set yourself up for a supported postpartum, this episode is for you. We look at practical and emotional support, who can provide what and what kind of spanners can get thrown in the works too. We also discuss changing family dynamics and the evolutions of the role and identity of “mother” as more children join the brood.
While it's not discussed in this episode directly, it's also important to acknowledge that although she is expecting her third baby to join her family, this is her fourth pregnancy. Loss affects so many of our journeys and every pregnancy, birth and postpartum deserves acknowledgement.
Saira has various downloadable guides and courses available via her Instagram @saira_allen
As always, you can find Anna and her free Six Steps to Your Peaceful Postpartum eGuide, arrange a session with her or grab her book "Mama, You're Not Broken" via www.annacusack.com.au.
Anna is also on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
Head to anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month. Every little bit helps and you can sub out at any time, no questions asked.
Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode, or share with a friend. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
THANK YOU!
S4, Ep11: Got kids? How to not hate your husband with Bridget Wood
So when it crops up, whether it’s once in a while or the shadow that hangs over you every waking moment, what can we do? How do we establish if, under all that resentment we are actually on the same page, invite them into self-reflection and serving us in ways they’ll actually engage in, and if it’s time to call it quits?
Strap yourself in – you’re not going to like some of what Bridget has to say, but do listen right the way to the end (there are two or three swears, so if that concerns you, headphones will b the way to go). There will be lightbulb moments from start to finish during this one. ***This episode is relevant for people in respectful relationships that are under strain now there are children in the mix. It is not relevant if you are experiencing domestic abuse, including coercive control or gaslighting. Dangerous men exist and there is no excuse for abuse of any kind. See 1800 respect for further information and make a plan to get safe. www.1800respect.org.au/violence-and-abuse/domestic-and-family-violence ***
Connect with Bridget at www.bridgetwood.life
On Instagram @_bridgetwood_
And as one half of conscious parenting, living and loving podcasting duo Nourishing The Mother, which has now been bringing Bridget and Julie Tenner’s combined wisdom to the ears of mothers for over 7 incredible years!
As always, you can find Anna, her services and book "Mama, You're Not Broken" at www.annacusack.com.au and on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
Head to anchor.fm/annaasks/subscribe if you'd like to support this podcast for $2.99AUD/month.
Please leave a 5 star rating or review if you loved this episode. This helps other parents to find us and engage in the stuff you know they'll love!
S4, Ep10. How can I do what you do? Becoming a Postpartum Doula with Julia Jones
You can find Julia via the following links:
Newborn Mothers postpartum doula course (read through or scroll to the very bottom to download the ""Is becoming a postpartum professional right for you?" guidebook): newbornmothers.simplero.com/S/https
Download the first chapter of Julia's books for free, "Newborn Mothers: When a baby is born so is a mother" and "Nourishing Newborn Mothers: Ayurvedic Recipes to Heal Your Mind, Body and Soul After Childbirth": newbornmothers.com/books/?ref=18885-Anna-Cusack
And here is the interview Anna did on Julia's podcast titled "Combining exercise and holistic postpartum care": newbornmothers.simplero.com/S/https
***Full disclosure these are affiliate links, which means if you sign up for her doula training course Anna will receive a small percentage of your usual course fee as your referrer.
As always, you can find Anna, her services and book "Mama, You're Not Broken" at www.annacusack.com.au and on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
Please leave a 5 star rating and/or review if you loved this episode!
S4, Ep9: ZELMA TOLLEY - Can we really separate ourselves from our parent support projects?
What you may not know is the story behind the establishment of The Postnatal Project, the tumultuous years that have passed since, or the sometimes thankless nature of parent support work.
If you have experienced postnatal mental ill health, this episode will speak to you.
If you are considering having an online presence or business with a view to support families, or if you have one already and are finding it hard to get started or reconcile the time, energy and resources spent on your projects, this episode will speak to you too.
This is a solid dose of reality from a mother who has experienced much in motherhood, business and the space where these are inseparable.
***
If you have a moment, please leave a 5 star review and rating so more people can find us!
***
Find Zelma via her website at www.thepostnatalproject.com/ This is where you can find the resources she mentions, including her "Candid Parenthood" eBook. Follow along on Instagram @thepostnatalproject and Facebook using the same handle.
Support the podcast via www.annacusack.com.au/podcast, grab her book www.annacusack.com.au/book and join the conversation on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
S4, Ep8: BONUS EP from TARA BROUGHAN - Help! I'm scared of saying the wrong thing!
How to get over the fear of saying the wrong thing
Leaning into relationship rather than out of it
How the desire for technical rightness in white culture traps us
How the construction of civility makes women behave and disconnect from each other
Transforming guilt into galvanized action.
Let's do this. The article Tara refers to has been updated and is now housed and discussed on this website: www.whitesupremacyculture.info/characteristics.html ***
If you have a moment, please leave a 5 star review and rating so more people can find us! ***
Connect with Tara on Instagram @tjbroughan and her parenting support programs with Meg via @megandtara and www.megandtara.com ***
Support the podcast via www.annacusack.com.au/podcast, grab her book www.annacusack.com.au/book and join the conversation on Instagram and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
S4, Ep7: TARA BROUGHAN on bias, bisexuality, conscious parenting, chronic illness and identity.
-How can we work through our own biases, raise aware humans and bring hesitant others into such conversations in positive ways?
-Does “the Australian identity” even exist?
-What was it like to grow up neurodivergent and queer in a regional area, and how has this shaped both outlook and parenting?
-What if you only realise you’re bisexual after you’re a mother, partnered with a man?
-How can chronic illness shatter the myths of “perfect motherhood” and bring benefit and depth to our children’s youth, not only challenge or lack as is often portrayed?
It’s a hard one to describe, but I know you’ll love it.
Connect with Tara on Instagram @tjbroughan and her parenting support programs with Meg via @megandtara and www.megandtara.com
Connect with Anna via her www.annacusack.com.au, grab her book www.annacusack.com.au/book and share your thoughts via Insta and Facebook @annacusackpostpartum
S4, Ep6. CARLY GRUBB - Why haven't we moved beyond sleep training?
This is a discussion not on the ins and outs of sleep training and its alternative, but the power dynamics and interactions between parents trying to do the “right thing”, health practitioners and policy, and the ever-present multi-billion dollar baby industry.
Babies aren’t great sleepers, and parents do need support. So how can we as a society move beyond sleep training to a place where nurturing our babies and children is our cultural default, regardless of whether the sun is up or not?
Connect with Carly's work here:
Little Sparklers website www.littlesparklers.org/
Beyond Sleep Training Podcast podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-beyond-sleep-training-podcast/id1566481559
Beyond Sleep Training Project peer support and social media www.littlesparklers.org/the-beyond-sleep-training-project
Continue the conversation with Anna on social media www.instagram.com/annacusackpostpartum+ www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum . You can also grab her free postpartum prep guide at www.annacusack.com.au , get her book at www.annacusack.com.au/book (use the code SPARKLER at checkout on my site and $2 from every copy sold will be donated to Little Sparklers foundation) or become a supporter of the podcast at www.annacusack.com.au/products/135362-Become-A-Podcast-Patron
S4, Ep5: Now what? Info for breastfeeding/lactating people who test positive for COVID-19
National Breastfeeding Helpline (free, 24 hours) - 1800 626 286
HealthDirect helpline (free, 24 hours) - 1800 022 222
Ambulance - 000
Find a lactation consultant - www.lcanz.org
References:
1. www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/if-you-are-sick/pregnancy-breastfeeding.html
2. www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/question-and-answers-hub/q-a-detail/coronavirus-disease-covid-19-breastfeeding
3. www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/covid-19/communities-of-practice/Pages/guide-pregnant-women-and-new-parents.aspx#feed
4. www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bfinfo/covid-19
5. accpjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/phar.2649
6. www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bf-info/common-concerns%E2%80%93mum/supply
7. www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/coronavirus-covid-19-and-kids
8. raisingchildren.net.au/newborns/breastfeeding-bottle-feeding/expressing-working-travelling/expressing-breastmilk
9. www.instagram.com/p/CX_zS5psgai/?utm_medium=copy-link
S4, Ep4: What’s the deal with Omicron?
S4, Ep3. JESS NABB - What is Radical Inclusion?
Meet Jess Nabb - feminist spaceholder, accessible yoga teacher, and nervous system witch, with a side-gig as a church-going, tarot-reading heretic.
Jess offers their wealth of knowledge, practice and lived experience to this conversation, focusing on radical inclusion in community and in business, and radical self-care for parents in the era of intensive parenting.
We discuss the marginalisation of all parents, re-finding their voice, and the pros and cons of pandemic life in relation to our varying needs, identities and intersections.
This is a brilliant conversation with a brilliant human, and we are so pleased to bring it to your ears.
You can connect with Jess at www.liberatedparenthood.co and on Instagram @liberatedparenthood
And continue the conversation with Anna at www.annacusack.com.au, on Instagram @annacusackpostpartum, on Facebook www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum, and grab her book at www.annacusack.com.au/book
S4, E2. MARY GIORDANO - Language, culture, diversity and respectful doula practice in birth and perinatal care
With a background in anthropology, migrant and refugee resettlement and multilingual doula work, I asked Mary to join me in discussion of the interaction of linguistic and cultural diversity and doula care throughout the perinatal period.
This chat traverses systemic limitations, definitions of “safety” and reflects on the use of traditional practices in the space of birth and perinatal work.
You can connect with Mary at https//madreluna.com.au and on instagram @mary.giordano_madreluna
Connect with Anna @annacusackpostpartum and grab her book, blogs and more at www.annacusack.com.au
Become a patron of the podcast for $5/month to pay the people we learn from: https://www.annacusack.com.au/products/135362-Become-A-Podcast-Patron
.
A few resources from Mary:
The Art of Birth with Naoli https://www.naolivinaver.com/mary-giordano.html
Playgroups and community hubs for culturally and linguistically diverse families:
https://vicsegnewfutures.org.au
https://communityhubs.org.au
S4, Ep 1: What’s in a name?
S3, Ep7: What’s a ventilator again? Dr. Mikayla Couch explains just about everything.
What do the words “in ICU” and “on a ventilator” actually mean? What are you hooked up to, and what are the doctors and nurses doing and monitoring if you’re that sick?
What health conditions make you more at risk of having severe COVID-19?
As a Doctor working with pregnancy, birth and COVID every day, what are you telling your patients about vaccination in pregnancy?
Why are regional communities and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in city and regional areas reporting lower vaccination rates than their non-Indigenous city counterparts?
What does she foresee (and fear) for the Northern Rivers/Byron region and its hospitals? Can we rely on herd immunity everywhere in NSW?
How does being COVID positive or “COVID presumed positive” affect your care, and the care health workers can give for other people in the hospital in emergencies?
How COVID is affecting pregnancy care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in regional communities?
***
Dr. Mikayla is host of the upcoming Bla(c)k Medicine podcast, @bla.c.kmedicine Find Anna @annacusackpostpartum on IG and FB, and grab her book at www.annacusack.com.au/book
S3, Ep6: Your Vaccine Questions Answered with Romy Blacklaw, The Immunisation Nurse
What's in the different vaccines? I'm breastfeeding/providing milk to my baby, does anything get through to my baby? What if I'm breastfeeding and I can't get a Pfizer appointment? Are you sure it's safe for me to get me to Astra? How do I know it's not going to hurt my baby long term? Who shouldn't get vaccinated? Expert immunization nurse Romy Blacklaw is here to answer these questions! Follow along with her content at @theimmunisationnurse And catch my book and I at www.annacusack.com.au and @annacusackpostpartum
S3, Ep5: COVID-19 Through The Eyes of Emergency Department Nurse Mariam Abou-Eid
In this episode I am joined by Mariam Abou-Eid, Emergency Department Nurse at Royal Melbourne Hospital.
We discuss what she is seeing in her city Emergency Department and ICU, within her family and the Arabic speaking community when it comes to COVID-19.
She talks us through how vaccination (or the lack of) is effecting hospital admissions and patient care journeys, key periods for deterioration in patients at home and in hospital with COVID, why late pregnancy is a time of greater risk, and what you can do to support people from marginalised backgrounds struggling right now.
You can find Mariam and her information on instagram @mariamaboueid_
Learn more about The Humble Mission at www.thehumblemission.com and @thehumblemission
And find my book and I at www.annacusack.com.au and at @annacusackpostpartum
S3, Ep4: Myth Busting: Calling Out Vaccine Misinformation Dressed Up As “Simply Asking Questions”
S3, Ep 3. Research Update: Fertility, Menstrual Changes, COVID-19 and Vaccination Against It
In this episode you will hear the audio from a Facebook Live video I recorded on 20th September 2021. I provide an update on the research and academic literature regarding fertility, menstrual changes, COVID-19 itself and vaccination against it up until that date.
I cover animal and theoretical modelling, clinical and real-world research with human subjects with female reproductive organs and male reproductive organs in relation to both infection with coronavirus and vaccination, address fertility-related vaccination claims, discuss menstrual changes and how these combine to inform personal decisions regarding vaccination.
This is the third research update I have recorded. The first was on lactation, COVID-19 and vaccination against it. The second was on pregnancy, COVID-19 and vaccination against it. Both these are also available in the previous episodes of this podcast.
Unfortunately the full list of references doesn't fit within the character limit here. For a full transcript and list of all articles and references cited, please see: https://www.annacusack.com.au/blog/59594-research-update-3-fertility-menstruation
DISCLAIMER: The reading I have done is comprehensive but I am not trying to position myself as an expert in this area. I am relaying the findings of the people who are actually the experts in words that you can hopefully understand. This is not instructive or to replace any advice or conversations you have with your medical professional team, it is just to give background so you can feel more prepared to have those conversations in the first place. I appreciate your interest in this topic and thank you for tuning in.
Connect with me here:
Grab my book: www.annacusack.com.au/book
Facebook: www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum
Insta: www.instagram.com/annacusackpostpartum aka @annacusackpostpartum
Work with me: www.annacusack.com.au
S3, Ep2. Pregnancy and the Covid 19 Vaccination
S3, Ep1. Research Update: Breastfeeding and COVID-19 Vaccination
What does the data say? I have compiled this academic research update regarding breastfeeding and COVID-19 vaccination. As it says in the video, this is for information purposes only. It is comprehensive but not exhaustive and does not replace discussions with your medical team regarding your personal vaccination choices.
You are welcome to share this episode with any people who provide breast or human milk to their babies, parent support professionals or others who you feel may be interested in the contents of this episode.
***On re-reading the paper by Twohig and colleagues I have become aware that ages 31 and 29 are the median age of a positive test result for Alpha and Delta strains of SARS-CoV-2 respectively, rather than median age presenting to or being admitted to hospital as originally stated in this video/podcast. I apologise for any confusion.***
A transcript of this video is available at www.annacusack.com.au/blog should you wish to read it instead.
Research articles cited:
Hare, H., & Womersley, K. (2021). Why were breastfeeding women in the UK denied the covid-19 vaccine? British Medical Journal, 372:n4. doi:10.1136/bmj.n4 Baird, J. K., Jensen, S. M., Urba, W. J., Fox, B. A., & Baird, J. R. (2021). SARS-CoV-2 antibodies detected in human breast milk post-vaccination. medRxiv. Advance online publication. doi:10.1101/2021.02.23.21252328 Pace, R. M. et. al. (2021). Characterization of SARS-CoV-2 RNA, Antibodies, and Neutralizing Capacity in Milk Produced by Women with COVID-19. mBio, 12(1). doi: 10.1128/mBio.03192-20 Kelly, J. C. et. al. (2021). Anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 antibodies induced in breast milk after Pfizer BioNTech/BNT162b2 vaccination. American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 225(1), 101-103. doi 10.1016/j.ajog.2021.03.031 McLaurin-Jiang, S., Garner, C. D., Krutsch, K., & Hale, T. W. (2021). Maternal and Child Symptoms Following COVID-19 Vaccination Among Breastfeeding Mothers. Breastfeeding Medicine. Advance online publication. DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2021.0079 Twohig, K. A., et. al. (2021). Hospital admission and emergency care attendance risk for SARS-CoV-2 delta (B.1.617.2) compared with alpha (B.1.1.7) variants of concern: a cohort study. The Lancet Infectious Diseases. Advance online publication. doi: 10.1016/S1473-3099(21)00475-8 I also referred to: -RANZCOG statement updated 18th August: https://ranzcog.edu.au/statements-guidelines/covid-19-statement/covid-19-vaccination-information -ABA position as at August 2021: https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au/bfinfo/covid-19 -The WHO “Interim recommendations for use of the Pfizer–BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, BNT162b2, under Emergency Use Listing” last updated 15th June 2021. https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-2019-nCoV-vaccines-SAGE_recommendation-BNT162b2-2021.1 -This Healthline article explaining how Astrazeneca and Pfizer work: https://www.healthline.com/health/astrazeneca-vs-pfizer-vaccine
You can contact Anna Cusack via www.annacusack.com.au
11 & 12/12 - CONTENTMENT + CONCLUSION - "Mama, You're Not Broken" Audiobook by Anna Cusack
Why do we put happiness on a pedestal, but look down our noses on mothers who feel content? Can you even call yourself a feminist when you’re a mum? And where to from here?
Hello and welcome to the final episode of the “Mama, You’re Not Broken” audiobook, written and read by me, Anna Cusack. I’ve combined the last chapter on contentment and the conclusion here, as I feel they combine really well to round out the audiobook experience.
It’s brought up all the emotions reading this for you. Thank you for being here, I so appreciate having you with me on this journey.
Anna Cusack is a Motherhood Revolutionist, author, podcaster, postpartum doula, Certified Motherhood Studies Practitioner and mum.
Become a patron of the podcast or jump into mentoring with Anna here: https://www.annacusack.com.au/products/
You can grab your copy of the book and download a full list of references and further reading suggestions at www.annacusack.com.au/book/
Continue the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum/ and Instagram @annacusackpostpartum
And find her meditations on the Insight Timer app.
Disclaimer: Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented in this audiobook, it must not be treated as a substitute for medical or psychological consultation. Always consult a qualified, supportive practitioner if you are concerned about your health and safety, or the health and safety of your children. Neither the author nor the publisher can be held responsible for any claim arising from the use or misuse of suggestions made in this book, and are not liable for any person’s failure to access or implement individual professional and/or medical advice.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. All permission requests are to be directed to the publisher using the contact form at www.annacusack.com.au.
10/12 BOREDOM - “Mama, You’re Not Broken” audiobook by Anna Cusack
Hello and welcome to part 10 of the “Mama, You’re Not Broken” audiobook, written and read by me, Anna Cusack. This chapter is all about boredom. You know it well, I know it well. It can be a really itchy and uncomfortable feeling especially when everyone is banging on about this being the best time of your life, but also asking “so, what do you actually do all day?”. Sometimes our new lives can feel boring, sometimes the things we used to be interested in before kids can be boring… Like everything else related to being a mum it’s a mixed bag. I know you’ll relate to this one, so enjoy.
Anna Cusack is a Motherhood Revolutionist, author, podcaster, postpartum doula, Certified Motherhood Studies Practitioner and mum.
Become a patron of the podcast or jump into mentoring with Anna here: https://www.annacusack.com.au/products/
You can grab your copy of the book and download a full list of references and further reading suggestions at www.annacusack.com.au/book/
Continue the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum/ and Instagram @annacusackpostpartum
And find her meditations on the Insight Timer app.
Disclaimer: Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented in this audiobook, it must not be treated as a substitute for medical or psychological consultation. Always consult a qualified, supportive practitioner if you are concerned about your health and safety, or the health and safety of your children. Neither the author nor the publisher can be held responsible for any claim arising from the use or misuse of suggestions made in this book, and are not liable for any person’s failure to access or implement individual professional and/or medical advice.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. All permission requests are to be directed to the publisher using the contact form at www.annacusack.com.au.
9/12 - GRIEF - "Mama, You're Not Broken" audiobook by Anna Cusack
Consider yourself warned that this episode requires all the trigger warnings you can think of. Go gently with yourself, talk with those close to you and remember Lifeline is available at 13 11 14 if you need immediate support. (Lifeline is an Australian crisis line, if you are overseas, please Google "mental health crisis support" for your area's service).
*
Anna Cusack is a Motherhood Revolutionist, author, podcaster, postpartum doula, Certified Motherhood Studies Practitioner and mum.
Become a patron of the podcast or jump into mentoring with Anna here: www.annacusack.com.au/products/
You can grab your copy of the book and download a full list of references and further reading suggestions at www.annacusack.com.au/book/
Continue the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum/ and Instagram @annacusackpostpartum
And find her meditations on the Insight Timer app.
Disclaimer: Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented in this audiobook, it must not be treated as a substitute for medical or psychological consultation. Always consult a qualified, supportive practitioner if you are concerned about your health and safety, or the health and safety of your children. Neither the author nor the publisher can be held responsible for any claim arising from the use or misuse of suggestions made in this book, and are not liable for any person’s failure to access or implement individual professional and/or medical advice.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. All permission requests are to be directed to the publisher using the contact form at www.annacusack.com.au.
8/12 - ANGER - “Mama, You’re Not Broken” audiobook by Anna Cusack
Anger. Rage. Fury. So many parents, especially mothers, tell me they never felt the same white hot anger before they had kids as they do now. A few mums have written to me and said they skipped straight to this chapter, and others have told me they’ve given this one to their partners to read because it gave words to the experience they couldn’t properly describe to get the message through. We cover mental health, theories around maternal anger, making amends with our kids after an outburst, and take a new look at anger through the lens of opportunity. I recognise this episode is to be released when many parents are in lockdown and do not have the same support systems and tools for self-regulation available as when this book was originally written. Take the bits that resonate, and leave the bits that don’t. Enjoy.
***
Anna Cusack is a Motherhood Revolutionist, author, podcaster, postpartum doula, Certified Motherhood Studies Practitioner and mum.
Become a patron of the podcast or jump into mentoring with Anna here: https://www.annacusack.com.au/products/
You can grab your copy of the book and download a full list of references and further reading suggestions at www.annacusack.com.au/book/
Continue the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum/ and Instagram @annacusackpostpartum
And find her meditations on the Insight Timer app.
Disclaimer: Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented in this audiobook, it must not be treated as a substitute for medical or psychological consultation. Always consult a qualified, supportive practitioner if you are concerned about your health and safety, or the health and safety of your children. Neither the author nor the publisher can be held responsible for any claim arising from the use or misuse of suggestions made in this book, and are not liable for any person’s failure to access or implement individual professional and/or medical advice. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. All permission requests are to be directed to the publisher using the contact form at www.annacusack.com.au.
7/12 - OVERWHELM - “Mama, You’re Not Broken” audiobook by Anna Cusack
This episode looks at feelings of overwhelm in motherhood. It is the longest chapter by far and rightly so, the sheer size and weight of the load mothers carry within our families and society is really intense. It can look as though the mums around us are managing fine, so we feel like failures in some way for struggling, but the reality is that the majority of mothers are not coping. Here’s the situation and some ideas on what we can do to go about changing it.
Anna Cusack is a Motherhood Revolutionist, author, podcaster, postpartum doula, Certified Motherhood Studies Practitioner and mum.
Become a patron of the podcast or jump into mentoring with Anna here: https://www.annacusack.com.au/products/
You can grab your copy of the book and download a full list of references and further reading suggestions at www.annacusack.com.au/book/
Continue the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum/ and Instagram @annacusackpostpartum
And find her meditations on the Insight Timer app.
Disclaimer: Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented in this audiobook, it must not be treated as a substitute for medical or psychological consultation. Always consult a qualified, supportive practitioner if you are concerned about your health and safety, or the health and safety of your children. Neither the author nor the publisher can be held responsible for any claim arising from the use or misuse of suggestions made in this book, and are not liable for any person’s failure to access or implement individual professional and/or medical advice.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. All permission requests are to be directed to the publisher using the contact form at www.annacusack.com.au.
6/12 - LONELINESS - “Mama, You’re Not Broken” audiobook by Anna Cusack
This episode looks at loneliness. Whether it’s feeling physically isolated or emotionally alone in a crowded room, early motherhood is a really paradoxical experience. It’s pretty common have very little time away from our babies, but also to feel really lonely, even without lockdowns. This is a social issue, even though it feels like a personal one. Enjoy.
Anna Cusack is a Motherhood Revolutionist, author, podcaster, postpartum doula, Certified Motherhood Studies Practitioner and mum.
Become a patron of the podcast or jump into her membership and mentoring program here: https://www.annacusack.com.au/products/135362-The-Lighthouse-Membership-Allyship
You can grab your copy of the book and download a full list of references and further reading suggestions at www.annacusack.com.au/book/
Continue the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum/and Instagram @annacusackpostpartum
And find her meditations on the Insight Timer app.
Disclaimer: Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented in this audiobook, it must not be treated as a substitute for medical or psychological consultation. Always consult a qualified, supportive practitioner if you are concerned about your health and safety, or the health and safety of your children. Neither the author nor the publisher can be held responsible for any claim arising from the use or misuse of suggestions made in this book, and are not liable for any person’s failure to access or implement individual professional and/or medical advice.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. All permission requests are to be directed to the publisher using the contact form at www.annacusack.com.au.
5/12 - FEAR - “Mama, You’re Not Broken” audiobook by Anna Cusack
This episode looks at fear. No sidestepping this one - it’s a pretty scary time in world history to have kids really isn’t it? We talk a bit more on our brain’s survival skills as we practice parenting, as well as covering climate, coronavirus, post-natal anxiety, unwanted harm thoughts and more.
Anna Cusack is a Motherhood Revolutionist, author, podcaster, postpartum doula, Certified Motherhood Studies Practitioner and mum.
Become a patron of the podcast or jump into her membership and mentoring program here: https://www.annacusack.com.au/products/135362-The-Lighthouse-Membership-Allyship
You can grab your copy of the book and download a full list of references and further reading suggestions at www.annacusack.com.au/book/
Continue the conversation on Facebook at www.facebook.com/annacusackpostpartum/and Instagram @annacusackpostpartum
And find her meditations on the Insight Timer app.
Disclaimer: Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented in this audiobook, it must not be treated as a substitute for medical or psychological consultation. Always consult a qualified, supportive practitioner if you are concerned about your health and safety, or the health and safety of your children. Neither the author nor the publisher can be held responsible for any claim arising from the use or misuse of suggestions made in this book, and are not liable for any person’s failure to access or implement individual professional and/or medical advice.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the author, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. All permission requests are to be directed to the publisher using the contact form at www.annacusack.com.au.